**** HRM Media Release
104th anniversary of the Halifax Explosion to be commemorated Dec. 6
Residents are invited to attend the annual Halifax Explosion memorial service being held Monday, Dec. 6 to reflect on the tragic event that occurred 104 years ago and the immense relief effort that was undertaken during its aftermath.
An official ceremony will be held at 9 a.m. at the Fort Needham Memorial Park – Bell Tower in Halifax.
The devastating explosion occurred on Dec. 6, 1917 when two ships – the French munitions ship, the Mont Blanc, and the Norwegian relief ship, the Imo – collided in the Narrows of Halifax Harbour. Over 2,000 people were killed and an additional 9,000 were injured as a result of the explosion, which was known at the time as the deadliest man-made explosion in history. Almost all of north-end Halifax was destroyed, and buildings throughout Halifax and Dartmouth were significantly damaged.
Monday’s service will include a smudging ceremony, memorial prayer, a moment of silence, official remarks by Mayor Mike Savage and Councillor Lindell Smith, and the laying of memorial wreaths.
Please note: A firefighter memorial will be held at Stn 4 on Lady Hammond after the bell ceremony
