Georges Island National Historic Site Partial Opening - Federal and Provincial Infrastructure Investments

Georges Island National Historic Site

Georges Island was designated a national historic site in 1965 as part of Halifax Defence Complex, which includes: the Halifax Citadel, Georges Island, Prince of Wales Tower, York Redoubt and Fort McNab. Georges Island’s strategic position in the middle of Halifax Harbour catapulted it to the heart of seaward defences for one of the principal naval stations in the British Empire in the 18^th and 19^th centuries. Since 1750, one year after the establishment of Halifax, Georges Island was fortified and continually fortified by military forces for 200 years. Home to Fort Charlotte and later its two powerful seaward-facing batteries and underground tunnel complex, the island is also the site of one of Canada’s first fully automated lighthouses. Thanks to its complex of subterranean passages and tunnels, this mysterious island has been the subject of local folklore for generations.

Situated in the heart of the place the Mi’kmaq called Kjipuktuk, or “The Great Harbour”, the island hosted many important events; events such as military encampments, the internment of Acadian prisoners during the Deportation of 1755-64, the later development of technologically advanced harbour defences, and a final use by the Canadian Army during the First and Second World Wars.

Public access to Georges Island National Historic Site

Georges Island National Historic Site has not offered regular visitor programming but from time to time has played host to special events. The Halifax Waterfront is the busiest tourism destination in Atlantic Canada with approximately three million visitors each year, including 300,000 cruise ship passengers. Interest has been steadily growing to create opportunities for Georges Island to provide visitor access.

Public access to Georges Island, with limited visitor services, is being made possible starting on August 8, 2020, through a combined government investment of $3.7 million. This federal/provincial project will support infrastructure improvements to facilitate public access and provide basic amenities for Georges Island National Historic Site.

The visitor offer for 2020 will include pathway access from the wharf to Fort Charlotte, where visitors will be greeted by interpretive staff, have access to the Fort Charlotte interior parade grounds, guided tunnel tours and interim interpretive signage will provide historic information.

Boat transportation to Georges Island will be provided by Ambassatours Gray Line. This unique and limited opportunity will be available for five weekends (Saturday and Sunday) from August 8 to September 6, 2020, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. It will enable visitors to learn more about this hidden gem and the ongoing work to support future visitation.

Important visitor safety information:

The health and safety of visitors, employees and all Canadians is of utmost importance. Visitors should follow the advice of public health experts, including necessary hygiene practices and physical distancing of two metres from others, as well as observe travel restrictions. Nova Scotia requires the wearing of non-medical masks in indoor public spaces. Visitors to Georges Island must wear a non-medical mask in interior spaces, including the tunnels, and whenever physical distancing is not possible.

When visiting Georges Island, it is important to note that the island is a drumlin, meaning it is shaped in an elongated hill, and the trail leading into the Fort is steep in places and there is limited shade. Composting toilets are available, however there are no facilities to purchase items on the island and there is no running water. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and water, as well as hygiene supplies, such as alcohol-based hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. Sunscreen, insect repellant, proper walking shoes and comfortable clothes are also recommended.

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