The Original Black Communities in Nova Scotia

The 58 Black Indigenous Communities of Nova Scotia

Rich History of Black Settlement Spans Over 400 Years

The province is home to over 50 historic Black communities, many of which were founded by Black Loyalists, Maroons, and Black Refugees who arrived between the 18th and 19th centuries. This website is part of the efforts of 902 Man Up to document, preserve, and celebrate these historic communities Their stories are not just about struggle, they are about triumph, legacy, and the ongoing fight for justice and recognition.

These communities collectively represent the enduring presence and contributions of African Nova Scotians to the province’s history, culture, and society. They are part of Nova Scotia's deep connection to African heritage and resilience. Despite facing systemic racism, land inequities, and economic marginalization, these communities have preserved their unique culture, traditions, and sense of identity.

Some of these communities are now less populated or absorbed into larger areas, but their historical significance remains pivotal to understanding Black history in Nova Scotia.

Historical Context

Black Loyalists (1783): During the American Revolutionary War, many enslaved Black people were promised freedom and land in return for supporting the British. Over 3,000 Black Loyalists settled in Nova Scotia, becoming one of the largest migrations of free Black people to Canada.

Jamaican Maroons (1796): A group of 550 Maroons, exiled from Jamaica after resisting British colonial rule, were resettled in Nova Scotia.

Black Refugees (1813-1816): Thousands of Black refugees from the War of 1812 were granted passage to Nova Scotia, seeking freedom from enslavement in the United States.

Pre-Loyalist Settlers (1600s): Individuals of African descent were among the earliest settlers in Nova Scotia, some arriving as enslaved people in the 1600s.
On this page is an overview of the 58 historic Black communities in Nova Scotia and the historical context of each community with details such as their founders, geographical location, year of establishment, settlers' occupations, community highlights, high-profile individuals, and significant historical events.