As part of the Municipality of the District of St. Mary's initiative to learn, appreciate, and reflect on the stories of African heritage that surround us is sharing stories about breaking barriers, challenging injustice, and changing the course of society in fields such as politics, science, arts, and social movements. This week's African heritage story is about William Hall, VC.

 

William Hall, VC

William Hall, VC (1827-1904) was the first Black person, the first Nova Scotian, and the third Canadian to receive the British Empire’s highest award for bravery, the Victoria Cross. He spent much of his life in Summerville and Hantsport, Nova Scotia, the son of formerly enslaved refugees who arrived in the province following the War of 1812. Hall was awarded the Victoria Cross for his efforts defending the British forces at Lucknow, India, during the Indian Rebellion against British East India Company.