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D'Anville's Encampment National Historic Site

Explore the historical D'Anville's Encampment in Halifax, Nova Scotia, commemorating a key 1746 French expedition and its impact on Canadian history.

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Visit the site where Duc d'Anville's storm-shattered expedition encamped in 1746 during a failed attempt to reclaim Acadia for France. Located in Halifax's Centennial Park, the site features a plaque and cairn commemorating this historical event.

A brief summary to D'Anville's Encampment National Historic Site

Local tips

  • Visit during the warmer months (late spring to early autumn) for pleasant weather and optimal access.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Centennial Park to enjoy the natural surroundings.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Halifax, go to the Halifax Transit Terminal at 5201 Duke Street. Take bus number 80 or 81 towards Bedford. Get off at the stop closest to D'Anville's Encampment on Bedford Highway. A one-way ticket costs approximately CAD $2.75.

  • Car

    From Halifax, take the Bedford Highway (NS-1) heading northwest for about 15 kilometers. The site will be on your right, with parking usually available. A taxi or ride-sharing service from downtown Halifax will cost approximately CAD $30 to $50.

  • Walking

    From downtown Halifax, walk to the Halifax Waterfront and follow the path north towards the Halifax Harbourwalk. Continue until you reach Bedford Highway; the site will be on your left. The walk is considerable in length.

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Discover more about D'Anville's Encampment National Historic Site

D'Anville's Encampment National Historic Site, nestled within Halifax's Centennial Park, marks a significant moment in Canadian history. In 1746, this small plot of land served as the temporary encampment for the Duc d'Anville's expedition, a French fleet sent to reclaim Acadia from British control. The expedition, plagued by storms, disease, and the death of d'Anville himself, ultimately failed. Today, the site is marked by a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC) plaque and cairn, serving as a reminder of this pivotal event. While no physical remains of the encampment exist, the site offers a place for reflection on the struggles and conflicts that shaped the region. Visitors can explore the tranquil surroundings of Centennial Park and learn about the historical context of d'Anville's failed mission. The site provides a serene backdrop for understanding the early colonial history of Nova Scotia.

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