Fort Massey Cemetery: A Silent Witness to Halifax's History
A historic military cemetery in Halifax, offering a serene space to reflect on the city's past and honor those who served.
Nestled at the junction of Queen and South Streets in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Fort Massey Cemetery provides a poignant connection to the city's rich military heritage. Established around 1778 in conjunction with the construction of Fort Massey, the cemetery initially served as the burial ground for the fort's garrison. The fort, named after Major General Eyre Massey, Commander-in-Chief of British forces in Halifax, was strategically positioned to defend against potential land attacks. While the fort itself fell into disuse and was eventually demolished, the cemetery remains a tangible link to this period. Today, Fort Massey Cemetery is the final resting place for British and Canadian soldiers, veterans, and their families. The cemetery also commemorates two servicemen who were killed in the devastating Halifax Explosion of 1917 but whose bodies were never recovered. The grounds contain 86 Commonwealth burials from the First World War and 41 from the Second World War, with many of these graves located in a dedicated plot near the Cross of Sacrifice. Notable interments include Lieutenant General Sir John Harvey, a distinguished figure in the War of 1812, and General Sir William O'Grady Haly, who commanded British forces in Canada from 1873 to 1878. Walking through the cemetery, visitors can reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served and gain a deeper appreciation for Halifax's role in Canadian and British military history. The gravestones, some dating back to the 18th century, tell silent stories of lives lived and lost. Fort Massey Cemetery offers a peaceful and contemplative space amidst the bustling city, inviting visitors to remember and honor those who came before.
Local tips
- Take some time to explore the grounds and read the inscriptions on the headstones to learn about the individuals buried here.
- Visit the Cross of Sacrifice, a prominent memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives in World Wars I and II.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Citadel Hill National Historic Site for a broader understanding of Halifax's military history.
A brief summary to Fort Massey Cemetery
- 1246 Queen St, Halifax, South End, Nova Scotia, B3J 2H4, CA
Getting There
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Walking
Fort Massey Cemetery is located at the junction of Queen and South Streets in downtown Halifax, approximately four blocks south of Citadel Hill National Historic Site. From Citadel Hill, walk south on Brunswick Street, then turn right onto South Street. Continue for approximately four blocks until you reach the cemetery on your left. The walk is generally easy, with a slight incline. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Halifax Transit offers bus service throughout the city. Several bus routes stop near the intersection of Queen and South Streets, a short walk from Fort Massey Cemetery. Consult the Halifax Transit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single adult fare is $2.75, and transfers are available for 90 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Halifax. A taxi or ride-share from downtown Halifax to Fort Massey Cemetery will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and distance.
Attractions Nearby to Fort Massey Cemetery
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Saint Mary's Cathedral Basilica
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Discovery Centre
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The Emigrant Statue
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Samuel Cunard Statue
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Halifax Public Gardens
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Harbour Hopper
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Harbour Hopper Tours
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Halifax Waterfront
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Sea Turtle Centre
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Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
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Pier 22 Pavillion
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Queen’s Marque
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Old Town Clock
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The Wave
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Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Landmarks nearby to Fort Massey Cemetery
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Fort Massey Cemetery
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Historic Schmidtville Signage
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Peace and Friendship Park
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Sebastopol Monument
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Winston Churchill Statue
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The Old Burying Ground
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Government House
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Old Library Halifax
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Historic Irishtown Signage
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Acadian Monument
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Griffin's Pond
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Dennis & Terry’s
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Battle of the Atlantic Statue
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Norwegian Memorial Stone
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The Halifax Ghost Walk