Halifax Citadel National Historic Site of Canada
Living History
Child tries drum with 78th Highlander
at the Halifax Citadel National Historic
Site of Canada
© Parks Canada / James Ingram, 2001
Inside the Halifax Citadel the sounds of a modern bustling port city are exchanged for the crack of
rifle-fire and the skirl of bagpipes. Each summer, as part of the Citadel's living history program,
mid-Victorian Halifax is brought to life. The time period is 1869, when the 78th Highland Regiment was
stationed at the Citadel. This regiment was one of the most famous Scottish units in the British Army
and presented an impressive sight in their MacKenzie tartan kilts, feather bonnets and bright red doublets.
As with any highland regiment, the heart and soul of the 78th was represented by its pipers. Dressed in
contrasting green uniforms, they figured prominently in all aspects of a soldier's life. The 78th Highlanders
developed a special, friendly relationship with the local citizens who lamented their departure in 1871.
Piper of the 78th Highland Regiment
playing at the Halifax Citadel National
Historic Site of Canada
© Parks Canada / James Ingram, 2001
Wives of Soldiers of the 78th Highland
Regiment doing laundry at the Halifax
Citadel National Historical Site of Canada
© Parks Canada / James Ingram, 2001
Today the Highlanders are portrayed by an historical re-enactment group composed mainly of students.
During the summer months, the 78th Highlanders perform precision foot and arms drills, sentry duty,
bayonet exercises and firing demonstrations using original Snider-Enfield rifles. Displays by the unit's
pipers and drummers, featuring period military music, complete the scenario. Visitors can stop to chat with
soldiers' wives who can be found around the wooden wash tub scrubbing the laundry, working with needle and
thread on the Cavalier porch or sweeping out the barrack room.
No British fort would be complete without the Royal Artillery, the regiment responsible for maintaining all
ordnance, operating guns and manufacturing ammunition and powder.
Royal Artillery prepares to fire noon day
gun at the Halifax Citadel National Historic
Site of Canada
© Parks Canada / James Ingram, 2001
Today, re-enactors portraying the Royal Artillery can be seen about the fort performing their
duties in their characteristic blue uniforms. The Artillery perform drill demonstrations on 12
pounder and 32 pounder smoothbore guns and 7" rifled muzzle loading guns. One of the most popular
events at the Citadel is the daily firing of the noon gun. The cannon's reverberating blast has become
part of Halifax tradition. On many afternoons the Artillery also fire a 32 pounder for the public's
enjoyment. In addition to showcasing the guns at the site, the Artillery operate the fort's
commercial and military signal masts. The masts' billowing flags and pennants, flying high above
the city, provide a festive atmosphere for summer visitors.
For further information concerning the living history program at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site contact us here .