This book recounts the rich history of Halifax's Public Gardens from their founding by the Nova Scotia Horticultural Society in 1833 to their extensive restoration after being devastated by Hurricane Juan in 2003. Peter Twohig details the gradual addition of elements such as their memorial fountains, distinctive stone bridges, ponds and bandstand. Full-colour visuals drawn from many archival sources reveal the wide range of the Gardens' natural and architectural splendour. Robert Pace and Robert Salah describe the restoration work undertaken after storm damage, which has made the Public Gardens an even more appealing destination for Haligonians and visitors to the city.
PETER TWOHIG is an historian of the Atlantic region. He is the author of two previous books on health care work, and five interdisciplinary essay collections on health, illness and disease. He began his career in Dalhousie University's Faculty of Medicine, before taking up a Canada Research Chair in history at Saint Mary's University, which he held from 2003 to 2013. He teaches in the Department of History at Saint Mary's and several interdisciplinary programs.
ROBERT PACE is Chair of the Board of the Public Gardens Foundation. He is the President and CEO of The Pace Group Ltd (MBS Radio, construction and commercial real estate). After MBS Radio held a one-day radiothon one week after Hurricane Juan in 2003 which raised $1 million, he led a $2 million restoration that resulted in the re-opening of the Gardens on July 1, 2005. Robert lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
ROBERT SALAH, a lifelong resident of Halifax, has held many senior positions in both the public and private sectors. An entrepreneur at heart he is involved in many successful business ventures and developments. He has headed several historic restoration projects, including the Halifax Public Gardens, St. Mary's Basilica and St. Mary's Rectory, as well as the Old Burying Ground. When his time allows, he enjoys sailing, sports cars and travelling.
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