General Mining Association National Historic Event
Stellarton, Nova Scotia
New Albion Gold Mine, N.S., 1891
© Geological Survey of Canada | Commission géologique du Canada / Library and Archives Canada | Bibliothèque et Archives Canada / PA-039840
Address :
147 North Foord Street, Stellarton, Nova Scotia
Recognition Statute:
Historic Sites and Monuments Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. H-4)
Designation Date:
1983-06-13
Other Name(s):
-
General Mining Association
(Designation Name)
Importance:
Major 19th century coal producer in British North America
Plaque(s)
Existing plaque: 147 North Foord Street, Stellarton, Nova Scotia
This British firm established coal mining as a major industry in Nova Scotia. Granted a monopoly of provincial mineral rights in 1826, the GMA developed coal operations here at Albion Mines and at Sydney Mines, and founded permanent mining communities by settling British colliers in company housing. Nova Scotia's first steam engines were built by the GMA to power pit hoists and pumps, and to drive coal ships. The company's Albion Rail Road was the first in British North America to use steam locomotives on iron rails. The firm remained influential until the sale of its last holdings in 1900.