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Pictou County is an area known for its strong and proud history. In
the 1700’s and early 1800’s, Pictou was the landing point of
Scottish immigrants after the Highland Clearances. The population
of 3,500 pays respect to the area’s historical value with the
town’s official slogan, “The Birthplace of New Scotland”.
During their visit to Pictou, Prince Charles and Camilla toured the
Hector Heritage Quay, a replica of the ship Hector, and a museum
dedicated to its history. The original Hector carried early
settlers from Scotland to Nova Scotia, including the first group
who landed on September 15, 1773.
The Hector Heritage Quay is operated by a group of over 60
volunteers. A tour of the ship also includes a display below deck
which reflects the conditions that were endured by immigrants
during their voyage across the Atlantic.
Monday’s afternoon was lively with a celebration of the area’s
Scottish heritage during a Celtic concert of dancing and music. The
Duchess wore a striking blue outfit with the traditional green
tartan of Nova Scotia, thus honouring the Scottish history and
culture of Nova Scotia.
Following their visit to Pictou, Their Royal Highnesses departed
Trenton Airport to travel to Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.
This was the first ever visit for The Duchess, whilst the first for
Prince Charles since 1983.
There, the Royal Couple took part in celebrations of Victoria Day,
which marks the birthday of Queen Victoria and unofficially denotes
the beginning of summer in Canada. Displays of festivity include
21-gun salutes and extravagant fireworks. Interestingly, Canada is
the only country to hold a holiday in Queen Victoria’s honour.
Additionally, this year the event commemorates 150 years since the
1864 Charlottetown Conference, which initiated the creation of the
Dominion of Canada. Prince Edward Island is thus known as the
Cradle of Confederation.
Festivities will continue throughout the day tomorrow in
Charlottetown, where the activities of Their Royal Highnesses will
include attending a Youth Parliament, visiting Confederation Centre
of the Arts Memorial Hall, and meeting with students of urban
development and environmental sustainability at Holland
College.
Photos with thanks to The Department of Canadian Heritage
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