Tunnels, Tales And Mysteries Of Georges Island

OVERVIEW

Enjoy a short but scenic ferry ride to Georges Island for an enlightening tour of this National Historic Site in the middle of Halifax Harbour. The indigenous Mi’kmaq people were the first inhabitants of the area, which they called Kjipuktuk, meaning “the great harbour.” Your guide, dressed in a period military uniform, will describe how French trappers arrived in the 17th century, followed by the British who built Fort Charlotte there. As you will discover, the fort played a strategic role in the War of 1812 and through the end of the 19th century, when its weapons became obsolete. As you walk through the brick-lined tunnels that were built beneath the fort, you will see how ammunition was stored in the underground bomb-proof shelters and hear tales of the soldiers that manned Fort Charlotte. The fort was upgraded with Bofors 40mm anti-aircraft guns in World War II, the last time it was used for military purposes.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride the ferry through Halifax Harbour to and from Georges Island.
• Enjoy an enlightening tour of Fort Charlotte, which protected Halifax for two centuries.
• Hear tales of the fort’s military history while walking through the tunnels beneath the fort.
• Gain an understanding of the strategic importance of this National Historic Site.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.