Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, located on the picturesque waterfront of Halifax, Nova Scotia, is the oldest and largest maritime museum in Canada. Established in 1948, the museum offers a comprehensive and fascinating exploration of the maritime history of the Atlantic provinces, making it a vital cultural institution in the region.

The museum's collection is vast and diverse, encompassing over 30,000 artifacts that illustrate the rich maritime heritage of the area. One of the most notable exhibits is the permanent Titanic exhibit, which pays homage to the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912. Halifax played a crucial role in the aftermath of the disaster, as it was the closest major port to the site of the sinking. The exhibit features artifacts recovered from the wreck, personal stories, photographs, and the only intact deck chair from the Titanic, offering a poignant glimpse into the tragedy.

Another significant exhibit is "The Halifax Explosion," which details the catastrophic explosion that occurred in Halifax Harbour on December 6, 1917. The explosion, caused by the collision of two ships, remains one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history. The exhibit provides an in-depth look at the event, its devastating impact on the city, and the subsequent recovery efforts.

The museum also showcases a range of maritime artifacts, including ship models, nautical instruments, and historical vessels. One of the highlights is the CSS Acadia, a hydrographic survey ship built in 1913 that served in both World Wars and is now permanently docked at the museum. Visitors can explore the ship and learn about its storied past and contributions to maritime exploration and defense.