Welcome to Pictou
There is Always Something Happening !
Photo Credit: Steve Currie
There are different stories relating to how "Pictou" got its name. It is said, Pictou is named after an old province in France called Poitou. The credit of locating the site of Poitou is generally attributed to a gentleman named John Patterson. Another story relates to the original people living in the area now known as Pictou, who were the Mi'kmaq that had been living in the area for hundreds and possibly thousands of years. The early name that they had for the area was Pictook, meaning exploding gas, probably related to the coalfields in the area.
Brown's Point
Brown's Point is the exact spot where the Scots landed the Ship Hector in 1773. Pictou is known as the Birthplace of New Scotland.
Christie MacDonald
Christie MacDonald (1875-1962) was one of the most famous Broadway singers of all time. When she died, her body was cremated and part of her ashes was brought to her hometown of Pictou and scattered over the harbour.
Edward Mortimer
Edward Mortimer (1767-1819) owned the first wheeled vehicle in Pictou. Although, he was probably the richest man in Nova Scotia at this time, he died pennilessly.
Ship Hector passenger Roderick MacKay
Ship Hector passenger Roderick MacKay constructed a steel boom that was placed across the Halifax Harbour to protect the capital from enemy ships during the American Revolution.
Adams Archibald MacKay
Adams Archibald MacKay was the only student awarded Pictou Academy's Gold Medal twice. The first time, in 1879, he was only 13 years old.
John Patterson
John Patterson was the founder of Pictou Town. His home (now gone) was at the top of Deacon's Hill. It was the first frame house built in Pictou.
Pictou Academy
Pictou Academy was the first school in Nova Scotia, where any student could attend, regardless of their religion.
Pictou's Town Hall
Pictou's Town Hall was used for many purposes in the past, from a jail to a place of Presbyterian worship. In one era, it hosted balls. It was remodelled in 1895 as a marketplace.
A public pillory at the foot of Market Square
There was a public pillory at the foot of Market Square in which, it has been claimed, a man was confined for three hours for kissing his wife on a Sunday. Today, a replica of the pillory stands at the foot of Hector Square.
Sir William Dawson
Born in Pictou in 1829, Sir William Dawson was the first superintendent of education in Nova Scotia. He was also instrumental in starting a training school for teachers, the Normal College, established in Truro in 1854. Dawson City was named after his son and renowned geologist, George Dawson.
David Matheson
David Matheson became the first Mayor of the Town of Pictou. He held the position for only one year, at a salary of $400 per year.
A group of cormorants
Each year, a group of cormorants return to Pictou from the south to mate and nest beside the Harvey A. Veniot Causeway, regardless of the noisy traffic. Their arrival can be predicted within a day or two of their first sightings.
The Ship Hector
The Ship Hector arrived in Pictou Harbour from Scotland on September 15, 1773. The piper on board played his pipes as the ship neared the shore. This frightened the native Mi'kmaq away, who was not seen for some time.
Shipbuilding in the Town of Pictou
Around the year 1867, shipbuilding was a major activity in the town of Pictou. At that time, in one year, there were forty registered vessels built in the town.
Sir W.J. Ritchie
Sir W.J. Ritchie was the first graduate of Pictou Academy to become Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada.
Dr. Frank Parker Day
Dr. Frank Parker Day was the first graduate of Pictou Academy to become a Rhodes Scholar.
Dr. Norman A. M. MacKenzie
Dr. Norman A. M. MacKenzie was the first Pictonian to be accepted as President of two Universities - the University of New Brunswick and later, the University of British Columbia. He was appointed to Senate in 1966.
Mother of Former Prime Minister of Canada, Sir John Thompson
Former Prime Minister of Canada, Sir John Thompson's mother lived in Pictou. Thompson died at Buckingham Palace while having dinner with Queen Victoria.
Pictonian Dr. Thomas McCulloch
Pictonian, Dr. Thomas McCulloch was the founder of Pictou Academy and the first President of Dalhousie University in Halifax.
Pictou's George Urquhart Hil
Pictou's George Urquhart Hill was an exceptional squadron leader in the Royal Canadian Air Force. He was the first Canadian to be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross three times.
"The Colonial Patriot"
The first newspaper in the province outside Halifax was "The Colonial Patriot". Originally the "Pictou Patriot", the first issue was printed in Pictou on December 7th, 1827.
The first locally built vessel in Pictou
The first locally built vessel in Pictou was constructed in 1778 by Thomas Copeland. The vessel, called a "Scow", was captained by Jerry Palmer.
Another Pictou
There is only one other "Pictou" in all of North America. It is a former coal village in Colorado. Thomas Lowther of Pictou County gave it the name while he was a foreman there in a mine.
Former names of the Town of Pictou
Before the town of Pictou received its modern name, it was known at different times as Coleraine, Alexandria, Donegal, Teignmouth, Southhampton, Wamsley, New Edinburgh and New Paisley.
Water Street Studios
Water Street Studios - Built in 1825, this building is a good example of Scottish stone houses. Since it was built, it has been a combined storefront and residence. From the 1920s to the '60s, it housed the Sheriff's offices.
Old YMCA
Old YMCA - Built in 1879, this building was the centre of community events. The top levels were used for sports and as a meeting place, while the first floor once housed a telegraph and post office.
Stone House
Stone House - Built in 1832 for Alex Campbell and Andrew Miller, who ran a baking business there until 1864. It was once the location of the Public Health Offices.
The Bank of Nova Scotia
The Bank of Nova Scotia building was constructed in 1878 for the Pictou Bank. In the 1880s, it became the Bank of Nova Scotia. It is the third oldest branch in the province.
Davies Foundry
Davies Foundry - Built in 1855, the buildings were the centre of an iron foundry.
Grohmann Knives
Grohmann Knives - Founded in 1957 by Rudolph Grohmann, his daughter Berta, and son-in-law Mike Babinec, Grohmann Knives has been producing handcrafted quality products for more than 35 years. It remains a family-owned enterprise that shares its founders' pride of excellence and tradition. Visit www.grohmannknives.com
The Palace
The Palace - The original structure was built as a theatre "The Palace" in 1905, where townsfolk and visitors were entertained with live theatre and silent film. It ceased operations in the early 1920s when it was sold to the Logan family. The top floor has been completely restored to its original appearance.
Black Battalion
Black Battalion - Recruited from across Canada and the U.S., Canada's first and only Black Battalion (1916-1920) were based in Pictou and Truro, before going to Europe in 1917. The Battalion was disbanded in 1920.
Advocate Printing & Publishing
Advocate Printing & Publishing Company Limited was founded in 1891.
The Pictou Advocate
The Pictou Advocate, housed here since 1914, has continuously published Pictou County's community news voice since 1893 (Pictures included on plaque).
The Pictou Lobster Carnival
The Pictou Lobster Carnival is the oldest and the largest lobster carnival in the world. Some say it is also the best!
"The Royal William"
"The Royal William", built in Quebec in 1831, cleared from Pictou Harbour on August 17th, 1833. Twenty-five (25) days later, she arrived in London, England. This marked the first Atlantic crossing using steam power all the way.
A Chloroform first
Chloroform was produced for the first time in North America right here in Pictou in 1848. It was produced by J.D.B. Fraser, in the building that is now 37 Water Street.
The Old Post Office
The old Post Office in Pictou is the only building in the world with a window in its chimney. The building, which was built in 1895, is located on Water Street.
The Consulate Inn
The Consulate Inn on Water Street, built in 1837, was formerly used as the offices of the American Consulate in Pictou in 1865.
The First Branch of the Merchants' Bank of Halifax
The First Branch of the Merchants' Bank of Halifax was incorporated by an act of Parliament on June 22nd, 1869, and opened the Pictou Branch in 1870. It became the Royal Bank of Canada in 1901.
Quality Council
Pictou was the first community in Canada to set up a Quality Council and use the "Total Quality Management Concept" in 1993.
The deCoste is the premiere, professional performing arts venue in Northeastern Nova Scotia located on the beautiful Pictou waterfront. The 400 seat facility features a state-of-the-art sound, video and lighting system. Flexible, non-fixed, seating makes it also a great location for conferences, meetings, special events, weddings and so much more.
The deCoste Performing Arts Centre has long been a cherished gathering place for Pictou County and Northern Nova Scotia residents. The latest expansion and upgrades prioritize creating barrier free environment to wlecome the entire community. The new facility now boasts external and internal ramps, mechanical lifts, barrier free washrooms and an enhanced hearing assist system, among other improvments. To futher this commitment, they have launched the Arts for All program, designed to eliminate barriers for those with physical, social and economic barriers. Community is encouraged to contact the deCoste team to discuss needs and ideas.
Visit deCoste Performing Arts Centre.
Photo Credit: NS Tourism
Travel Less, Discover More
Whether you are drawn to history, outdoor adventure or arts and culture, the Town of Pictou offers endless opportunities. Touch a lobster at a local museum, relive the voyage of the first Scottish settlers to Nova Scotia, view the impressive collections of prominent educator Dr. Thomas McCulloch, hike the Trans Canada Trail, or take in a Ceildh at Atlantic Canada’s premier performing arts centre…..travel less and discover more in Pictou.
Explore Pictou on foot or bicycle, you will find unique artwork by our talented artisans or simply enjoy a cold drink on an open deck with a seaside view.
Each summer since 1934, the town has celebrated its marine heritage with the Pictou Lobster Carnival. The three-day event features musical entertainment, parades, carnival rides and of course, lobster! There are endless events to enjoy year-round in Pictou for all ages.
Find Out More
Guides for Pictou County and Antigonish County
www.coastalnovascotia.ca
The Northumberland Shore Visitor and Activity Guide is full of "treasures" that will help the far-away traveler or keep our locals up to date on what is happening inside our County. Pick up a guide at any provincial visitor information centre.
For travel information for the province go to www.novascotia.com
Visitor Information Centres
There are several visitor information centres in Pictou County to assist you. Tourist information centres at found at the following locations:
DEANS Administration Office (year-round)
345 Temperence Street, New Glasgow
cindy@coastalnovascotia.ca
Irving Station - Cowan Street Rest Area (seasonal)
Exit 21, Trans Canada Highway #104
2500 Old Truro Rd,
kara@coastalnovascotia.ca
DEANS Visitor Information Centre (Seasonal)
Hours: Daily 9am - 5pm
Pictou County Wellness Centre
2-2756 Westville Road, New Glasgow
kara@coastalnovascotia.ca
Municipality of the County of Pictou Administration Building (Seasonal)
Front foyer
Open Monday-Thursday 9am - 4pm and Friday 9 am - 1 pm
46 Municipal Drive
Pictou,NS
kara@coastalnovascotia.ca
Town of Pictou - Waterfront (Seasonal)
Love Local Vendor Village
27 Creighton Street
Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thrusday, Saturday and Sunday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday 10:00 am-7:00 pm
We invite one and all to experience the lives and stories of our people. A variety of attractions and internationally recognized events add to the allure of our community. Plan your visit today, relax, and enjoy our friendly people and the warm hospitality of our seaside town.
In Town
Braeside Country Inn
Braeside Country Inn
126 Front Street, PO Box 1810, Pictou, NS, B0K 1H0
Ph: (902) 485-5046, Toll Free: 1-800-613-7701
Fax: (902) 485-1701
welcome@braesideinn.com
www.braesideinn.com
Conference facilities available
The Braeside Country Inn is a 4 star Heritage hotel with a setting in a park overlooking the historic Pictou Harbour. The Inn was built in 1938, although we are constantly improving & renovating, the building has retained many of its historic features - very quaint and unique! If you are looking for a place with some history and character, this is a great place to stop. You are going to receive our warm hospitality and attentive care. The recent renovations will ensure you have an even more wonderful experience.
The Facility Includes:
- 18 Comfortable Air-conditioned Rooms & Suites with Private Bath
- Phone & TV, most with Habour View
- Complimentary Continental Breakfast
- Free Wifi & Guest Computer Station
- On-Site Laundry Facility
- Full Conference Facility
- Free Ample Parking Area
- Speaking English, French, Chinese and Japanese
- Mini Fridge or Bar Fridge
Brenda's Place to Stay Bed & Breakfast
160 Haliburton Road, PO Box 1671, Pictou, NS, B0K 1H0
Ph: (902) 485-8653 or (902) 759-0022, Fax: (902) 485-1300
brendasplacetostay@ns.sympatico.ca
Customs House Inn
38 Depot St, PO Box 1567, Pictou, NS, B0K 1H0
Ph: (902) 485-4546, Fax: (902) 485-1657
customshouseinn@ns.sympatico.ca
www.customshouseinn.ca
Conference facilities available
The Customs House Inn is located on the waterfront within the historic town of Pictou and only 15 minutes' driving time from the town of New Glasgow.
The building is constructed of brick and sandstone circa 1870. The Inn was extensively renovated and offers travellers all of the modern amenities.
The Facility Includes:
- Wireless and hard-wired high-speed internet
- Business services are available
- Open year-round
- They are located within walking distance of all attractions
Dolan's Inn & Suites
Ph: (902) 485-1337
Consists of a newly renovated 15 room motel, a 5 room inn and 20 suites ranging from a bachelor to a complete 5 bedroom house. Many of Dolan's rooms/suites have water views and full kitchens, which include fibre internet/tv. Rooms range from the economical to the executive suite. Dolan's also has a meeting/restaurant area that can accommodate up to 250 persons.
The Lionstone Inn, Motel and Cottages
Owners: Dennis Douglas and Preston Parsons
241 West River Road, PO Box 249, Pictou, NS, B0K 1H0
Ph: (902) 485-4157, Fax: (902) 485-4173
Toll Free: 1-866-785-4157
lionstoneinn@eastlink.ca
www.lionstoneinn.ca
Open year-round. Clean and comfortable accommodations in a 3-acre park-like setting. Closest motel to PEI ferry. Walking distance to downtown. Located next door to Sobey's and Tim Horton's--and only 14 minutes to New Glasgow. Refurbished rooms and most with renovated baths. 6 Housekeeping motel units with full kitchens, 6 housekeeping cottages. Warm and friendly atmosphere. Visa/Mastercard required for booking.
Seabank House Bed & Breakfast
Owner: Elizabeth Cunningham
68 Front Street, Box 413, Pictou, NS, B0K 1H0
www.Seabankhousebnb.cominfo@Seabankhousebnb.com
Landline phone: 902-485-4775
cell: 647-982-4052
Offering four "themed" bedrooms, each with modern, private ensuite bathrooms. We serve a scrumptious full breakfast in our dining room and we provide excellent wifi and lots of parking! "You Are Welcome Here!"
The Scotsman Inn
Bed & Breakfast
78 Coleraine Street, PO Box 629, Pictou, NS, B0K 1H0
Ph: (902) 485-1433, Toll Free: 1-855-770-1433
reservations@scotsmaninn.com
www.scotsmaninn.com
Conference facilities available
The Scotsman Inn, built in 1865, is situated in the heart of historic Pictou. This Pictou Historic building at the top of Pictou's main street gives little indication of the elegant Inn awaiting within. It combines the charm of a bed and breakfast with the privacy of an inn all in a graceful setting and a short walk to the waterfront, museums, restaurants, shops and live musical performances.
Major features include a tranquil balcony at the rear, with plants, tables and chairs. All rooms feature cable television, ensuite bathroom, free wifi, private parking and dry storage for bikes. A delicious continental breakfast is included and can be enjoyed in either the dining room or the outside deck.
Willow House Inn (Bed & Breakfast)
11 Willow Street, PO Box 1900, Pictou, NS, B0K 1H0
Ph: (902) 485-5740
stay@thewillowhouseinn.com
www.willowhouseinn.com
At the Willow House Inn B&B guests are welcomed with warm Maritime hospitality. This historic house, built in 1840, offers guests spacious, tastefully decorated rooms with comfortable beds. All rooms are air-conditioned, nonsmoking, have cable TV and have ensuite or private baths. Guests are treated to a delicious breakfast each morning, including freshly baked treats, homemade jams and other tasty items. Your home away from home.
Accommodations Just Outside of Town
Camping
Birchwood Campground and Cabins
2521 Hwy 376 Lyon's Brook, PO Box 433, Pictou, NS, B0K 1H0
Ph: (902) 485-8565 Tool Free 1-888-485-8565
stay@birchwoodcampground.ca
www.birchwoodcampground.ca
Harbour Light Campground
2881 Three Brooks Road, RR #1 Pictou, NS, B0K 1H0
Ph: (902) 485-5733
harbour.light@ns.sympatico.cawww.harbourlightcampground.ca
Caribou/Munroes Island Provincial Park
2119 Three Brooks Road, Pictou
Ph: (902) 485-6134
www.parks.novascotia.ca/park/caribou-munroes-island
