Exploring Halifax’s History: From Sitamuk to HMCS Sackville

On our recent trip to Halifax, we had planned to visit Sitamuk, a project of Wije'winen located along the waterfront of Kjipuktuk (Halifax). However, it was closed that day, so we decided to explore another significant piece of history nearby: the HMCS Sackville, Canada's Naval Memorial.

This was my first experience on a naval ship, and it was fascinating to get a sense of what life would have been like for those who served at sea. As soon as we stepped aboard, we were transported back in time, surrounded by the ship’s carefully restored wartime details and exhibits that honor the memory of the sailors who served during the Battle of the Atlantic. The HMCS Sackville, at 205 feet long, holds a special place in Canada’s naval history as the last corvette from World War II.

The ship’s compact quarters gave insight into the realities of life at sea—close quarters, rugged conditions, and a strong sense of camaraderie. Yet, there was undeniable beauty in the ship itself, from its structure to the stories it holds. Every corner seemed to tell a story, and the artifacts and memorials aboard made the experience even more meaningful.

While Sitamuk would have offered a different perspective on local culture and history, exploring the HMCS Sackville allowed us to connect with a part of Canada’s past. It was a good couple hours spent on Halifax’s historic waterfront, where we walked away with a deeper appreciation for those who lived, worked, and fought aboard Canada’s naval vessels.

Looking forward to sharing more of these experiences as we continue to uncover pieces of history on our journey!