Ceremonies commemorate 100th anniversary of Halifax Explosion (8 photos)

By Mark Hodgins

One hundred years ago, parts of Halifax were levelled by an explosion the likes of which had never been seen before, taking the lives of thousands, either directly or in its aftermath.

Hundreds braved the wind and rain to mark the 100th anniversary of the Halifax Explosion in a somber ceremony Wednesday morning.

The service took place at Fort Needham Memorial Park, which overlooks the area that was destroyed by the blast.

Premier Stephen McNeil told the crowd about the determination of those who survived.

“Let's think about the positivity, let's think about what we built, what they began to build, and what you and so many other Nova Scotians continue to build on over this 100 years,” he said.

Listen to Premier Stephen McNeil's speech:

Halifax Mayor Mike Savage, fighting back tears, also addressed the crowd of hundreds who braved cold and wet weather.

“To those were killed, to those who survived, and to those who rebuilt, we say to them what we say to our great military heroes on Remembrance Day, we will remember them.”

Listen to Mayor Mike Savage's speech:

It was at 9:04:35 a.m. on December 6th, 1917 when the SS Mont-Blanc, a French munitions ship, exploded 20 minutes after colliding with the Imo in the Narrows.

It remains the worst human-caused disaster in Canadian history.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today