~Heritage Day 2016~

Perhaps no one shaped Nova Scotian politics, literature or freedom of the press more than Joseph Howe, youngest son of John Howe. He expressed his love for the province in all he did, from the push for responsible government to his Halifax inspired poetry, such as the Ode to the Town Clock (1836).

As publisher of The Novascotian, a spirited and popular newspaper with commentaries on the day’s events, Howe loyally promoted notable Nova Scotian literature, including the first of Judge Thomas Chandler Haliburton’s Sam Slick series.

Joseph Howe is perhaps best known for his rousing speeches. In particular, the 1835 defence of free speech for the press. Howe had been accused of libel for comments found in The Novascotian towards the magistrates. He was called before the court, and as no lawyer would defend him, Howe represented himself. He spoke to the court for two days, and after a short deliberation, was acquitted of all charges. The event is commemorated on a statue of Howe located next to Nova Scotia Province House. At the base is a bronze plaque showing the newspaper publisher addressing the court.

Howe eventually became a member of the Legislature in 1836, then Premier from 1860-1863, and then finally, a federal cabinet minister. He was appointed Lieutenant Governor for a short time before his death in 1873 and now lies buried beneath a slab of Nova Scotian granite in Camp Hill Cemetery.

Joseph Howe is this year’s Heritage Day Honouree…

It’s fun to celebrate our beautiful province on Heritage Day. And what better way then with some traditional local food. Last year we enjoyed homemade Beavertails and Lobster. This year I went for something a little different … Sauerkraut and mashed potatoes! This is a Lunenburg county meal and my family loves it. And for dessert…Apple Pie with Ice Cream. ( February is Apple Month in Nova Scotia) Delish!

And of course,  I was sportin’ my comfy Nova Scotia tartan and enjoying my coffee from my NS mug. lol  Happy Heritage Day!