Thousands gathered to watch the Ship Hector replica make a dramatic return to Pictou Harbour.
According to a release, Saturday’s traditional side launch was witnessed by an estimated 12,000 people along the waterfront and thousands more tuning in via live broadcast.
It marked a major milestone in the multi-year restoration of the iconic tall ship, a replica of the original 1773 vessel that brought the first wave of Scottish settlers to Nova Scotia.
Members of the Pictou Landing First Nation community opened the ceremony with traditional drumming, dancing, and a smudging ceremony honouring the Mi’kmaw connection to the land and waters of Piktuk. They also offered smudging to attendees.
The day was also highlighted by events reflecting Gaelic culture, language and traditions such as a milling frolic, a song workshop, highland dancing and genealogy tracing.
Among dignitaries who attended were Chief Tamara Young (Pictou Landing First Nation), Nova Scotia Regional Chief Andrea Paul, Premier Tim Houston, MP Sean Fraser, and Mayor Jim Ryan.
A symbol of courage, migration, and connection for generations
In a statement, Ship Hector Project Manager Vern Shea said, “This wasn’t just about launching a ship. It was about years of craftsmanship, community effort, and cultural responsibility. We’ve rebuilt something that carries real meaning, not only for those who came before us, but for those who will come after. I’m incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished.”
Chair of the Ship Hector Society Wes Surrett said, “The launch of the Ship Hector marks a turning point. It’s a powerful reminder of where we come from and what we can achieve when we come together. Today was about charting a course for the future.”
This month, the Ship Hector Society also wrapped up a major modernization of the Hector Heritage Quay Interpretive Centre with $4 million in funding from the province and Ottawa. It features new immersive exhibits and educational experiences focused on migration, resilience, and Mi’kmaw and Scottish cultural heritage.
The Ship Hector Society is in its final phase of fundraising. The aim is for the replica to be a passenger sailing vessel that will offer public sails, educational programs, and cultural experiences — to serve as a heritage and economic anchor for the region.
Generous contributions to propel next phase of restoration
The day was also marked by two generous donations: $1,000,000 from Sobeys Inc. and the Sobey Foundation, and an additional $250,000 from the David and Faye Sobey Foundation.
Dave Sobey said, “The story of the Ship Hector is part of the fabric of this province. We’re proud to support a project that not only preserves an important piece of our collective history, but also creates opportunities for education, cultural connection, and economic development in the region.”
The announcement came before the screening of the newly released short film ARRIVAL – OQWA’JIK – RUIGHEACHD at the deCoste Performing Arts Centre.
Created by Clothesline Media, it features new immigrants, shipbuilders, descendants of settlers, and both youth and Elders from Pictou Landing First Nation, reflecting on what the Ship Hector means to them.
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