Who says history can’t be fun? To experience history hands-on, I dispatched two very special envoys to check out A Soldier’s Life, now in its fourth year at the Halifax Citadel and Historic Site. With a strong sense of adventure and a keen interest in military history, my Godson and his brother, aged 8 and 10, were eager recruits. Plus, like so many of us in Halifax, they have a strong family connection to the military. Now it was their turn to sign up!
First, the young recruits signed their enlistment papers. They had the choice of different uniforms based on jobs including Artillery, Bagpiper, and Drill.
Photos: Debbie Maladaick
During the exclusive tour, the children looked down on life at the busy Halifax Citadel. The guide was amazing: very knowledgable, and really great with the kids. She welcomed curiosity and always had the answers.
Photo: Debbie Malaidack
Together, the group raised a flag to send a coded message – just like soldiers did in 1869!
Photos: Debbie Maladaick
And how can you be a Highlander without learning to play the drums?
Photos: Debbie Malaidack
They experienced what school was like for a soldier’s family…
Photo: Debbie Malaidack
…and finally, got a chance to learn about the defence systems of the Citadel. That’s right, the BIG guns!
Photos: Debbie Malaidack
As an added bonus, the morning program ended with the firing of the famous Halifax noon canon. What a blast…literally!
Photo: Debbie Malaidack
After the tour, families are welcome to roam the Halifax Citadel, join another guided tour (one leaves each hour), visit the exhibits, have a snack in the cafe, or browse the gift shop. You could easily spend most of the day at the world-famous Halifax Citadel, before venturing into Downtown Halifax to explore the rest of our beautiful city.
A Soldier’s Life is suitable for children ages 6-12 years old. There are two sessions per day, and the sessions last about 90 minutes. Not to be confused with the adult program, Soldier for a Day, this tour is for kids only, although parents are more than welcome to tag along, have some fun and take photos – just like we did!
A Solider’s Life at The Halifax Citadel
When: July 2nd to August 31st, 2019
Time: Daily at 1:30 pm and 3:00 pm
Note: You must purchase tickets at least 30 minutes prior
Where: Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
Cost: $7.30 per child, plus park entry fees.
Duration: 90 minutes
Contact: 902-426-1990
