Travel back in time

Like the river itself, the history of the Shubenacadie Canal Waterway has many twists and turns. It is a tale of big dreams and dashed hopes. From its geologic origins to its settlement by the Mi’kmaq and its complete transformation by 19th-century industry, the story of the Shubenacadie Canal Waterway is intrinsically linked with the development of modern Nova Scotia.

By browsing the links below, you can learn more about the past, present, and future of the Shubenacadie Canal Waterway, from 515 million years ago to the present. We hope that this will inspire you to experience the canal’s history firsthand by visiting one of the many historic sites along the waterway.