History Browser

Starting in the late 1820s, the fortifications of Halifax were developed into a formidable defence complex. The new Citadel on the hill dominated the city’s landscape with batteries dotting the coast to provide crossfire against enemy ships. George’s Island was also heavily fortified to block the passage leading into Bedford basin. This 1865 map of Halifax shows these defences were woven into the layout of the city. (Library and Archives Canada, NMC 48125-6/6)

Parks Canada has provided a virtual doorway to explore Canada's national historic military sites. Online tours enable the user to travel to the sites of famous battles or view a famous building. Both virtual and text tours are available.

Parks Canada has provided a virtual doorway to explore Canada's national historic military sites. Online tours enable the user to travel to the sites of famous battles or view a famous building. Both virtual and text tours are available. The Halifax Citadel is one of the finest examples of a 19th-century-star-shaped fortification. On this virtual tour the user is given an idea of what defences were used to protect this structure and Canada's east coast.

The United States and Great Britain signed the Rush-Bagot Treaty in 1817 and peace settled between Canada and United States. Despite this agreement, both sides remained wary and built defensive installations to facilitate the transport of troops and supplies in preparation for possible future disputes.

In 1900, Canada raised the 3rd (Special Service) Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment (RCR) to replace the British garrison in Halifax. The last British garrisons of Halifax and Esquimalt were withdrawn from Canada in 1905 and 1906. The Militia Council, formed in 1904, took control of the militia from British command. A decision was taken to establish a unique Canadian military identity, reflected in distinct uniforms and a different rifle from British imperial troops.

The rise of Germany forced the British Empire to concentrate on home matters, accelerating the withdrawal of overseas garrisons. The Dominions were asked to contribute to the Empire’s defence, but Canada and Australia blocked attempts over the issue of control of troop contributions. In 1907, they did agree to participate in an Imperial General Staff system to develop common defence plans.

A historical overview of the Halifax Citadel which formed an important part of the Halifax Defence Complex.

This is an introduction and visitors' guide to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site of Canada. Web links and contact information are provided here.

The budgets for the new fortifications built at Quebec, Kingston and Halifax between 1820 and 1848 were huge - both in terms of money and years of labour. Unfortunately, all of these projects took far longer to build and were many times more expensive than was planned.

The year 1871 witnessed the final withdrawal of British Army Troops from Canada and the beginnings of Canadian defence efforts to defend Canada from both internal (domestic violence) and external (American invasion) threats.