Lock 2 - Shubie Park (photo R.Walsh)
Dartmouth Marine Railway site - Starr Park
The Shubenacadie Canal Commission historical guided tours program was a hit once again this summer and fall. Capturing the interest of young and old, volunteer Richard MacMichael lead groups through two unique tours. The first were scheduled historical hikes at Shubie Park which gave folks a glimpse into how the canal operated and the construction of the deep cut. The second tour was onsite at the Marine Railway in Starr Park, Downtown Dartmouth. Richard welcomed the community to see the inside of the full-scale replica of the Flume House and explained the mechanics that controlled the Marine Railway.
Thanks to the support we received from the Canada Summer Jobs program we were able to hire Braden McLaughlin for 8 weeks to help with guided tours. He and Richard led groups on scheduled informative tours at both sites and then spent the rest of his time onsite at the Fairbanks Centre, providing historic interpretation of the canal and other project related assistance.
With over 200 people visiting the Flume House site and over 60 people enjoying history hikes at Shubie Park, the 2021 programs were a resounding success! Thank you to all who signed up, we loved hearing all of the positve comments! The weekly scheduled History Hikes and Flume House tours wrapped up on October 30. However, History Hikes in November may be available upon request, please contact the SCC office. A big thanks to Richard for showing locals and tourists one reason why the Shubenacadie Canal Waterway is Yours To Explore.