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Symbols of Nova Scotia

© Mary M. Alward

In my article, Symbols of Canada, I told you about some things that represented my country. This week, I'm going to tell you about two symbols of Nova Scotia. The reason I chose these two is because they are a little unusual.

Each Canadian province has a flag, a flower and other symbols by which it can be recognized. Not all Canadian provinces have a dog as its symbol. Nova Scotia does.

Duck Tolling Retriever

This dog is a Canadian breed. It is the smallest of all retrievers. It is a medium-sized dog and it makes a terrific pet. It is very smart and knows exactly how to lure ducks, geese and other waterfowl within range of its master's gun. It is a working dog. That means it is trained to do a job. It lures the waterfowl to its master so he can put food on the table.

The Duck Tolling Retriever has been bred in Nova Scotia since the 19th Century. In 1945, the Canadian Kennel Club recognized it as an official breed. Way back then, these dogs only lived in Nova Scotia. This is no longer the case. Now, they live in many different countries besides Canada.

In 1995, the Duck Tolling Retriever was named Nova Scotia's Provincial Dog by an Act of the House of Assembly. So, when you see one of these dogs, you will know its ancestors were found only in Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia Tartan

Hundreds of years ago, people from Scotland came to the shores of Nova Scotia to start a new life. They settled in the area that is now known as Nova Scotia. With them, they brought the culture and traditions of their country. They named the area,"Nova Scotia," which means "New Scotland" in Jacobean Latin.

The Scots brought with them many customs of the Scottish Highlands. They also brought the tradition of the "tartan." In 1955, the above tartan was adopted by the Province.

At that time, Canada was under British Rule. Queen Elizabeth II of England was our ruler. We still had to follow British Law. So, the tartan was submitted to the Court of the Lord Lyon King of Arms for approval. In 1956, the tartan was registered with Her Majesty's Register Office in Edinburgh, Scotland. The "Tartan Act" of 1964, was passed by Canada's House of Commons.

So, from now on when you see this tartan, you will know it is a symbol of the Province of Nova Scotia.

The copyright of the article Symbols of Nova Scotia in Canada for Kids is owned by Mary M. Alward. Permission to republish Symbols of Nova Scotia in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.