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If you're interested in Canada's immigration history, then you won't want to miss Pier 21 in Halifax. This historic site was the gateway to Canada for over one million immigrants and refugees between 1928 and 1971.
Pier 21 is located on the Halifax waterfront and offers a variety of exhibits and programs that showcase the experiences of immigrants and refugees who came to Canada through the port of Halifax. You can explore the museum's many exhibits, which include artifacts, photographs, and personal stories of immigrants and refugees.
One of the highlights of Pier 21 is the Canadian Immigration Story exhibit, which takes visitors on a journey through the history of Canadian immigration. You can learn about the different waves of immigration to Canada, as well as the challenges and triumphs that immigrants faced when they arrived in a new country.
Another popular exhibit at Pier 21 is the Arrival Gallery, which features a replica of the Pier 21 baggage hall. Visitors can experience what it was like to arrive in Canada as an immigrant, and see the customs and immigration procedures that they would have gone through.
In addition to the exhibits, Pier 21 also offers a variety of programs and events for visitors of all ages. You can participate in workshops, attend lectures and discussions, or take a guided tour of the museum.
And if you're interested in tracing your family history, Pier 21 also offers a genealogy center where you can research your family's immigration records.
Overall, Pier 21 is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Canadian immigration history. With its engaging exhibits, interactive programs, and unique location on the Halifax waterfront, it's a great spot to learn about the experiences of immigrants and refugees who helped shape Canada's multicultural identity. So come explore the stories of Pier 21 and discover the richness of Canada's immigration history.
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The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is situated at the historic gateway that served as the entry point for one in five Canadians between 1928 and 1971. This national museum is dedicated to sharing the stories of immigrants to Canada, reflecting the country's rich tapestry of cultures and the significant role immigration has played in shaping its identity.
Pier 21 was known as the 'Gateway to Canada' and played a pivotal role during the post-war period, when it became the busiest ocean immigration facility in the country. It welcomed soldiers returning from World War II, war brides, displaced persons, and refugees, marking the start of a new life for many.
The museum houses an extensive collection of personal stories, artifacts, and documents that illustrate the diverse experiences of immigrants upon their arrival in Canada. These narratives offer visitors a profound insight into the challenges and triumphs faced by newcomers as they navigated their way through Canada's immigration process.
Pier 21 was also the departure point for over 500,000 Canadian Military personnel during World War II, a lesser-known aspect of its history. This fact underscores the site's significance not just in immigration history but also in Canada's military past.
In 1999, Pier 21 was designated a National Historic Site of Canada, recognizing its importance in Canadian history. The designation helped preserve the site and led to the establishment of the museum, ensuring that the stories of Canada's immigrants would continue to be told for generations to come.
Time Zone: Nova Scotia operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-4).
Weather: Nova Scotia experiences a maritime climate, which means milder winters and cooler summers compared to areas further inland. Winters can be cold and snowy, especially in the interior, with temperatures often ranging from -10 to 0 degrees Celsius (14 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit). Summers are generally pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). Coastal areas may experience fog and cooler temperatures.
Population: Nova Scotia has a population of approximately 1 million people. It's one of the four Atlantic provinces of Canada.
Size: The province covers an area of about 55,284 square kilometers (21,345 square miles), including the mainland and over 3,800 coastal islands.
Language: English is the predominant language spoken in Nova Scotia, though there are also French-speaking communities, particularly in the Acadian regions.
Currency: The Canadian Dollar (CAD) is the currency used. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash can be helpful, especially in smaller towns or rural areas.
Safety: Nova Scotia is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate. Standard safety precautions are always recommended.
Tipping: Similar to the rest of Canada, tipping is customary in Nova Scotia. A tip of 15-20% on the total bill before tax is standard in restaurants, and tipping for other services like haircuts and taxi rides is also common.
Electricity and Plugs: Canada uses Type A and Type B plugs, and the standard voltage is 120 V with a standard frequency of 60 Hz. Travelers may need adapters or converters for their electronic devices.
Water: Tap water in Nova Scotia is safe to drink in most areas and is subject to strict quality controls.
Address:
1055 Marginal Road Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4P7
Website: pier21.ca/
Latitude: 44.6414
Longitude: -63.5682