Commemorating the War of 1812
© Parks Canada
The Halifax Defences: the forts that protected a navy that defended an empire
© Parks Canada
When war was declared on June 18, 1812, Halifax was key to the defence of British North America. As the primary base for the Royal Navy’s North Atlantic squadron, the port was well protected by several fortifications, including the Halifax Citadel, Fort Charlotte on Georges Island, York Redoubt, and the Prince of Wales Tower.
Although these defences were never tested in combat, the war demonstrated their importance, and in the years following 1814, many improvements were made, including the complete re-construction of the Halifax Citadel as a masonry work, becoming one of the most powerful forts in North America.
Learn more about the Halifax Defence Complex
Learn more about the War of 1812
Commemorative events - 2013
June 1, 2013
Citadel 1813 Commempration Concert
Halifax Citadel NHS
The Tri-Service Cadets and Fife and Drum will join forces with the Citadel’s own 78th Highlanders to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the infamous battle between the HMS
Shannon and the USS Chesapeake during the War of 1812. Enjoy traditional music and military demonstrations from this era inside the walls of the historic British fort. 2–3 pm
August 17-18, 2013
Fab Forts
Halifax Citadel NHS
The Halifax Citadel was built to protect a city, a
culture, and a way of life. Rediscover the reason why the Halifax Citadel is so fabulous! Special activities planned for the entire family to enjoy –
watch for more details coming soon!
August 23, 2013
Freedom of the City
begins at Halifax Citadel NHS
The Halifax Citadel’s iconic 78th Highlanders exercise the Freedom of the City of Halifax by parading through the town with drums beating, colours flying and bayonets fixed. Parade begins at the Halifax Citadel at 11am and continues to Grand Parade and Government House.
August 29 to September 1, 2013
American Revolutionary War to War of 1812 Grand Encampment
Halifax Citadel NHS
Discover a pivotal event in the making of both Canada and the United States: the American Revolution! This living history event will feature a military encampment and demonstrations of authentic camp cooking and period food, as well as battle tactics, cannon and musket firings from the late 18th century.
Commemorative exhibit
The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is a living legacy of a pivotal time in Canadian and American history. This year Parks Canada presents a special exhibit on the War of 1812, and re-enactments of army and navy life at a busy military station, a time when troops manned the defences or prepared to ship out for far off battlefields.