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Ly The want of cheap Works on the Geography of No V.I Scotia has long been felt, especially by those employed in the education of the young. With the view of sup|)lying this deficiency, tho Publishers have lately issued n cheap though care- fully prepared Map of the Province; and with thQ same design, they now offer to the public a compendium of its Geography and Natural His- tory, intended as a companion to the Map, and embracing a mass of information which cannot, in the same condensed and cheap form, be ob- ) tained in any other publication. In preparing the topographical part of the Work, the writer has consulted all the Books previously published on the subject, and has compared their statements with the facts furnish- ed by his own observation, and with the intorm- ation kindly communicated by friends acquainted with localities which he had not visited. He therefore trusts that the view of the natural features and present condition of the Province, contained in this department, will be found toler- ably accurate; though in such a subject it is scarcely possible that errors and omissions have been altogether avoided. The department of Natural History is, in con- sequence of the small space which can be allotted to it, necessarily very imperfect, yet, meagre though it may appear, it has cost much labour, , '.and indeed couhl scarcely have been completed f 1^ ■y ^ had not t!i(5 writor boftii enj^a^ecl in collecting materials of thin description for other pnrjioses. Tiio uscH intended to he served by the introduc- tion of this department, are the promotion of the love and study of nature, and the excitement of a well directed spirit of inquiry into the natural productions and resources of the Province. In order to facilitate reference, and to adapt the Work to be used as a Catechism when desir- ed, the matter has been arranged in short para- graphs, and the fa-st few words of each, in most cases stating its subject, have been separated from the remainder by a dash ( — ). The words thus separated, are intended to supply the place of questions: Thus, in the first paragraph, the Teacher may say '' The Province of Nova Sco- tia is situated," — and pause till the pupil repeats the remainder of the paragraph; or, if preferred, the above words mny easily be converted into the /br?;i ot"a quej^ion. In this way, any Teacher can use the Work as a Catechism, while the awkwardness ol* the catechetical form and the waste of space which it occasions, are avoided. The Writer gratefully acknowledges his obli- gations to several gentlemen who have furnished him with valuable information; and especially to the author of the Meteorological Table, con- tained in the appendix, from which many of the facts in the article on Climate have been derived. W. D. Pictou^ January, 184S. I no.*. ii > CON T E N r S , Section 1 . — Geos;raphy. General description of Nova Scotiu Novji Scotia proper .. Cape Breton Political and Judicial Institutionrf riie Executive The Legislature .. Courts of Justice Civil divisions of Nova Scotia Counties of Nova Scotia Proper Digl)y • • Yarmouth ShelhuriiG Queen's .. Annapolis King's Lunenburg Hants Halifax ,, ,. Colchester Cumberland Pictou Sydney Guysborough Counties of Cape Breton. Richmond Inverness Cape Breton Sable Island Section 2. — Natural History. Climate Geology Zoology Botany Appendix. Koacfs and Distances Meteorological Table .. « > • t T) • • .. 7 f • s t f .. 8 • • 9 • • .. 10 • • 11 • t .. 12 • • .. 12 ■ • .. 11 • • .. 15 • • .. 17 • • 18 • • .. 20 • • .. 22 • • .. 23 « • .. 25 • • .. 27 t • .. 28 • • .. 80 • « .. 32 • • .. S3 • • .. 34 • • .. 35 • « .. 36 • • .. 88 • • .. 39 • • .. 42 • • 51 • • .. 72 3» .. 75 • • .. 77 ill Work went to Pres/Tho? v ''"" "^ "-o 'ho censu,, taken in 838 T r''' '""' "^^'''''''ke.i "ate ofla'st-lS?'"''''' "'"" '"e words " the GEOGRAPHY ASDSAIMAl HISTORY OF NOVA SCOTIA. Section I.— Geography. of iho looked neces- 3; — . "the )000" 9. 1838, 000" The Province of Nova Scotia is situated — on the eastern side of the continent of North Ame- rica, between North latitude 43^ 25' and 47^, and between West longitude 59° 40' and 66'' 25'. It is — one of the Provinces of British North America. It was first colonized by the French, by whom it was called Acadie or Acadia. It was finally ceded by France to Great Britain in 1763. Its principal natural divisions — are Nova Scotia Proper and Cape Breton. NOVA SCOTIA PROPER. Nova. Iscotia Proper — is a peninsula of a somewhat triangular form, connected with the mainland of North America by an isthmus six- teen miles in breadth. It is bounded — on the north-east and east by Northumberland Straits, St. George's Bay and the Gut of Canseau; on the south and south-east ■I d GE00RAPII7 hy tlio Atlantic Ocean; and on the north-west hy the Uiiy ot' Fuiidy, Chicfxnecto liay ami the Pro- vince ut* ISew Urunswick. NorthuinI)(.'rlan(l Strait — is a part of the (Jnlf of St. La\vr(.'M(!e, sri)arating Novii Scolia from Prince Edward Jshmd. St. Geor on the r repre- lointing iw, the \nd ge- \y ap- ;se last ipoint- ments in Britain are made known. He can par- don criminals, except in cases of murder or high treason, and has the power of calling General Assend)lies. The Governor may also act — as commander- in-chief, in which capacity he has the command of the militia; and, if a senior officer, of the army within the Province. LEGISLATIVE BODIES. The Legislature of the Province — consists of two branches, the Legislative Council and the House of Assembly. The Legislative Council — consists of mem- bers appointed for life, by the Crown. It has the power of rejecting or amending Bills sent to it by the House of Assembly, and also of originating Bills, which must, however, be submitted to the Assembly. It cannot originate money bills. The House of Assembly — consists of mem- bers elected every four years, by the counties and townships. It has the power of investigating the public accounts, appropriating the Proving "al re- venue, levying taxes, and in general of legislarinir on any of the internal affairs of the Colony, \vhi»ii may be brought under its notice by the Govern- ment, its own members or the petitions uf the people. The acts of the Legislative bodies — arc snltjeet to the approval or rejection of the Government of Great Britain. 10 GEOGRAFHY I JUDICIAL INSTITUTIONS. The pnncipal Courts ot Justice — are the Court of Chancery, Court of Error and Appealn, Supreme Court, Court of Vice Admiralty, Pro- bate Court, Court of Marriage and Divorce, Court of General Sessions, and Justices' Courts. In the Court of Chancery — the Lieutenant Go- vernor is chancellor; but the Master of the Rolls is the acting and responsible Judge. The duty of this Court is to decide causes which cannot be justly settled by the strict rules of common law. An appeal lies from the decision of the Master of the Rolls, to the Chancellor and the Judges of the Supreme Court, and from these to the Queen in Council. The Court of Error and 'Appeals — is formed of the Governor and Council; before whom judg- ments amounting to £300 and upwards may be reviewed. An appeal lies from it to Her Majesty in Council. The Supreme Court — consists of one Chief Justice and four assistant Judges. Its jurisdic- tion extends to uK criminal and civil suits, not including del)ts under £5, except in cases of ap- peal from Justices' Courts. Its proceedings arc regulated by liie forms and rules of common law. The Court of Vice Adiniralty — has one Judge, holding a i'v>nnnission from the Governor, it decides maritime causers and the disi)03al of ])ri- zos tMkefi in war, and has jurisdiction over capi- tal oUbnces comtnitled n[)on the high seas. Tlio Court of Probate — ndaVes to the disposal of the estates ol'deceased persons. 'iMie (^'ovor- nor iis the head of this Court; but Surrogate Ju trj m foi II I ijt,aiiijt^^stt^um4i^iax:S^>tt^it OF NOVA SCOTIA. 11 -are the Appeals, Ity, Pro- Divorce, ' Courts. riant Go- he Rolls I' he duty amiot be noil law. 1 aster of es of the Queen formed •injutljr- may he Majesty e Chief iirisdic- lits, not 1 of ap- ings arc lomnioii Judge, 10 r. It of pri- ?r eapi- • !>posaI (>M)V 01'- iTogjite I Judges in each of the counties, are appointed to transact its business. The Court of Marriage and Divorce — consists of the Go'/ornor and Council, and has jurisdicUon over all matters? relating to prohibited marriages, matrimonial rights, anil divorce. The General Sessions — are local courts held m each county, by the Justices and Grand Jury, for the regulation of county taxes and other local aflairs. Justices' Courts — have f)ower of adjudication on debts not exceeding ten j)ounds. When the debt does not amount to three pounds, they may be held by one Justice; when it exceeds that amount, two justices are rerpiired to form the court. An appeal lies from them to the Sui)reme Court. The Justices have also power — to investigate trespassescommitted upon lands, Vvhere the titles to the lands the county town, on the west side of Annapolis Basin, Weymouth and New Edinburgh at the mouth of Sissiboo river, Westport on Briar Island and Clare on the western coast. The soil of this county — is of various quality. On Digby Neck it is dark coloured and fertile; on the isthmus between St. Mary's Bay and An- napolis Basin, usually red and generally fertile; in the remainder of the County it is of moderate fertility, though often hilly and stony. At the head of St. Mary's Bay there is an extensive tract of marsh land. The 'principal exports of Digby — are salted fish, agricultural produce, lumber and cord wood. The Townships of this county — are Digby and Clare, each of which sends a representative to the Assembly. The first settlers of Digby — were Loyalist from the L^nited States and French Acadiaiia 14 GEOGRAPHY I The former occupied the northern part of the county. The hitter, who were part of those expelhjd from the Province and afterwards [)er- mitted to return, settled in 17(>8 on the shores of its southern part, now the Townsliipof Clare. The poj)ulation of Dighy — in 1827 was 5G52. It is now ])robabIy about 9000. 2. — THE COUNTY OF YARMOUTH. Yarmouth is bounded — on the No»'th by the county of Digby; on the West and South-west by the Atlantic; and on the South-east by the county of Shelljurne. Its i)rincipal Bays and Harbours — are Yar- mouth, Jebogue, Tuskct, and Pubnico harbours. Its principal River — is the Tusket, whose sources are at Lake Wentvvorth in the county of Digby, and whose course is through a chain :if lakes. Its principal branch is named Salmon Kiver. The Lakes of this County — are very numerous, occurring along the courses of all the rivers and streams. The largest is Lake George. On its coast — are numerous small Islands. One of these. Seal Island, is the most southern land belonging to Nova Scotia. The surface of Yarmouth — is though low, agreeably diversified. The soil is generally rocky, but most of it is susceptible of cultivation. Near the rivers there is some mar^'i land, pro- ductive of grass, but inferior to the marshes of the Bay of Fundy. The ])rincipal Towns and Settlements — are Yarmouth, the county town, on the harbour of the same name; Tusket on the east side of Tusket Riverj Jebogue and Pubnico. an pr ONl P( •j5ffiaS;nMi*'te)fflL'-j.;*liS OF NOVA SCOTIA. 15 lit of the of those aids per- lie .sh(3res of Clare, vas 5G52. I th by the nth- west t by the ire Far- arbours. 1 whose ounty o( chain :tf Salmon merous, ers and is. One 5ni land fh low, >neral ly vation. d, pru- shes of ts — ^are Jour of ide of The people of this County are employed — chieHy in the fisheries and navijifation, anfriculture and the lumber trade are also [)uryned, thougli less extensively. The j)rincipal exports are fish, lumber, and dairy produce. The Trade ot Yarmouth — is extensive and prosperous; and a lanrer ariiount of shippiuir is owned in the town of Yarmouth than in any other Port of tijo Province; Halifax excepted. The Townships olthis Couni}^ — are Yarmouth and Ari^yle, each of which sends a rei)resentative to the Legishiture. The first Settlers of Yarmouth — were Fren^di Acadians from xAimapoiis. They vvere expelled by the British Government in 1755; but in 17(J3 were permitted to return, and thrur descejulanrs still occupy a part of the county, their principal settlement bein,'^ at E<'ll)rook. The first British frcttlers — were a few families from New En;^iand, who settled at Jeboiiue in 1761, The town of Yarmouth was founded a few ye: 's afterward. 'IMie population of the County — was in 1827, 7135. It is now about 12000. 3. — THE COcNTY OF SHELBUUNE. Shelburne is bounded — on the West by the county of Yarmouth; on the North-east by Queen's county; and on the South by the Atlan- tic. Its principal Harbours — are Parrington Har- bour, Port La Tour, Capc^ Nej^ro Harbour, Shelburne Harbour, Jordan River, Rajrired Isl- ands Harbour, and Port Hihert. Of the last of these one side only is in Shelburne. its larirest Rivers — are the ijarrin2;ton. '•■I >J i 15 GEOGRAPHY. ill ill Shelburne or Rosewfiy, ancJ Jordan; the most important of these are the Clyde and Roseway. Its principal Islands — are Cape Sable Island, which supports a considerable population. Cape Nonrro Island and NcNutt's Island. The surface of this county — is low and uneven in the vicinity of the coast; but in the interior there are higher lands. The soil is jsrenerally rocky, and in many pinces there are larsje barrens and peat bogs. Even in the vicinity of the coast however, there are patches of good land; and in the interior, are larger tracts of fertile soil pro- ducing valuable timber. The principal Towns and Settlements — are Shelburne, the county town, at the head of Shelburne harbour; Barrnigton on the harbour of the same name; and the Settlements of Ragged Islands and Clyde River. The principal branch of industry pursued iu this County — is the fishery, which is carried on by the inhabitants of all the harbours on the coast, ship-building and agriculture are also pur- sued to some extent. The Townships of this County — are Barring- tor, and Shelburne, each of which has a repre- sentative in the Assembly. The first settlers in Shelburne — were a few French families. The first British settlers were 80 families from Nantucket and Cape Cod. who arrived in 1761, 'i: and '3. The Town of Shelburne was founded — in 1783, by a large number of refugee Loyalists from the Unitad States. It afterwards greatly declin- ed, but recently its population and trade have considerably increased. The population of this County — in 1827 was 4883. It is now probably about 7000. the most toseway. e Island, Cape ot* Nova scotia. 17 )n, i uneven Interior renerally e I)arren8 he coast and in soil pro- nts — are head of harbour 'Ragged rsued iu Tried on s on the ilso pur- Barring- a repre- B a few irs were )d. who f^ed — in sts from deciin- le have J27 was I , 4. — q.ueen's county. Qur.eii'.s County is bounded — on the North- west l)y the county of Aniiapt)!is; on the South- west by the County of Shelhurno; on the South- east by the Atbintic; and on the North-east by the county of Lunenburg. The principal Bays and Harbours on its coast — are Port Joli, Port Mouton, Liverpool and Port Med way. The principal Fiivers — are the Liverpool and Port Med way. The first of these is one of the larjTcst in Nova Scotia, and is connected with numerous lakes, one of which Lake llosignol is the most extensive in the Province. The Port Med way is also a large river, and receives the surplus waters of many considerable lakes. The soil of this County — is'generally stony and unproductive; but in some parts of the county, especiaUy in the interior, are tracts of good soil supporting thriving agricultural settlements. The exports of Queen's County — are fish and fiawcd lumber. The trade in these is carried on in all the harbours on the coast; especially in Liverpool and Port Medway. The principal Towns and Settlements — are liivorpool, the county Town, which is well buil< and carries on an extensive foreij?n and coasting trade; Mill village and Port Medway, at th» mouth of Port Medway river; and in the interio of the county, BrooUfield, Pleasantfield an« Northfield. The 'I'ovi^nships of Queen's County — are Li\ erf)ool and Guysboro'. The first of these senc a representative to the Legislature. The first Settlers — were eungrantij from Ma B 1 ! I I! Sf '1, I y ;ii r Id OeoORAPHf I sachussetts, who founded the town of Liverpool in 1760. The population—in 1827 was 4225; in 1838, 6798. It is now probably about 7000. 5.— THE COUNTY OP ANNAPOLIS. Annapolis is bounded — on the West by the County of Digby; on the North-west by the Bay of Fundy; on the East by King's County; on the South-east by Queen's and Lunenburg coun- ties. Its only natural Harbour — is the beautiful sheet of water named Annapolis Basin; there is however a breakwater on the shore of the town- ship of Wilmot. Its principal Rivers — are the Annapolis, a large river running nearly parallel to the northern shore of the county, and receiving the waters of several considerable tributaries from the South; Allen River and Bear River. Its surface — is varied and beautiful. It may be divided into three districts differing in their soil and appearance. The first of these natural divisions — is the elevated ridge of the North Mountain, extending along the coast, and forming the Promontory of Granville. The soils on the flanks of this ridge ore generally excellent. The second — comprises the valley of the An- napolis River, the uplands of which, though light, lire often fertile, and adapted to the culture of fruit. It also includes extensive tracts of dyked marsh on the margin of the Basin and rivers. The third — extends from the valley of the river to the South line of the county, and com- prises more than half its surface. It is in general or NOVA SCOTIA, 19 LiverpobI 3; in 1838, lis. est by tho by the Bay '^ounty; on bur«r coun- [) brnutlfui n; there is f the town- oils, a large e northern e waters of the South; 1. ft may ng in their ns— is the extending nontory of this ridge ►f the An- )ugh light, culture of of dykecl rivers. ley of the and con»- in general hilly nn West by itias Chan- itl on the ounties. reauxanc! ofMinas. 3r streams iitiful and Lnnapolis, cts. Ige of the ofty pro- . It con- equality, 1 stony, ul highly vh'ich the I 01 NOVl SCOIIA. Ill •oil i.) a red s.iudy ioain gcncrully I'ertilc. At iho nioiiths uf the rivers running thr(Migh this valley and on the iieighboiiring ?nt contains much fertile soil, and is in many j)laces thickly settled. 'J'he narrow valley of the (iaspereanx river, which ru«is through this district, is of c^rcat beauty. The principal branch ot' rndustry in this coun- ty— is agriculture, and the farms arc generally well cultivjilcd and productive. The principal Towns and Settlements — are Kentville, the county town, on the banks of Cornwallis river; Lower Morton, Cornwallis and Wolfvillc. x\t Wolfvillc are situated — x\cadia College, an institution conducted by three professors, under the control of the 13aptist Association of Nova Scotia; and a collegiate academy witk two teachers. King's County was first settled — by the French, who built in Horton a village named Minas, ancl dyked much of the marsh land of the county. They were expelled with the other French Aca- dians in 1755. The firot English settlers — were emigrants from Connecticut, who arrived in 1704 and took pos- session of the lands formerly occupied by tho Frehch. The townships of this County — are Horton, Cornwallis and Aylestord. The two first are represented in the Assembly. The population of this county — in 1827 was 10208; in 1838, I370j). his nowabove 16000 r ! ! H \ I'm '. i ill ' I ft CCOG&APHir 7. — THE COUNTY OP LCNENBlTRG* Lunenburg is bounded — on rhe South-west by Queen's county; on the North-west by Anna- polis and King's counties; on the North-east by Hants and Halifax counties; on the South-east by the Atlantic. The principal bays and harbours— are Ma- hone Bay, a large indentation in the coast, con- taining numerous islands; Lunenburg harbour^ and the estuary of the La Have river. The largest rivers — are tlie La Have, Petit and Gold rivers. The first of these is a large river connected with several lakes, the most impor- tant of which is Sherbrooke Lake. In this county is the promontory— of ■• spota- gon, whose elevation, though not above 5^^0 feetj is greater than that of any other headland on this coast,and makes it a noted landmark to navi- gators. The surface of Lunenburg — is in general un- even, but not elevated; and the soil is in most places stony; but on the shores of Mahone Bay, in the vicinty of the town of Lunenburg, and near the La Have river, the soil is often good and well cultivated. The principal exports — are fish, lumber and cattle; and the shipping employed in carrying these, is in great part owned in the county. The principal towns and settlements — are Lun- enburg, the county town, on the harbour of the same name; Chester on the shore of Mahone Bay; New Dublin, La Have Bridge and New Germany on the La Have river. The townships of this county — are Chester, Lunenburg and New Dublin. Of these Lunen- burg alone lias 3 representative in the Assembly^ or IfOTA SCOTIA. t» South-west 5t by Anna- rth-east by South-east '—are Ma- coast, con- g harbour, e, Petit and large river losi impor- ■of • spota- e 500 feet, eadiand on irk to navi- ?eneral un- I is in most ihone Bay, nburg, and often good umber and 1 carrying unty, — areLun- >our of the f Ma hone and New Chester, ?e Lunen- \8semWy. Lunenburg was first settled — by Germans and Swiss, invited by the British Government, who* founded the town of Lunenburg in 1751. In 178'2, Lunpnl)urg was greatly injured by being taken and plundered by American privateers, who took or destroyed property the value of which was estimated at £13000. Chester was settled in 1760 by emigrants from New England. The population of this county — iu 1827 wag 0405; in 1838, 12058* it is now about 15000. 8.— THE COUNTY OF HANTS. Hants is boundod-*on the North-west and North by Kind's County and the Basin of Minasj on the East l)y the Shubenacadie, which separ- ates it from Colchester; and on the South by Halifax and Lunenburg counties. The only large indentation in its coast — is the estuary of the Avon river, which receives the waters of ino?t of the rivers of the county. The principal RiverF — are the Kennetcook, St. Croix and Avon; and the Nine Mile and Five Mile Rivers, tributaries of the Shubenacadie. In consequence of the low level of the greater part of this county, and the height of the tides of the Bay of Fundy, the three first of these rivers and the Shubenacadie river are remarkable for the length of their tidal estuaries, which form the only harbours of this county. The surfiu'o of Hrints County — is in general low and i^enily undulating. In the northern part of the county , however, there are more hilly dis- tricts, the most elevated part of which is Ardoise mountain. The 8oil->— is in all the lower parts of the coun- ^Yi good and often very fertile; and on the oitu* 24 csoaRipiiy 11 aries of the Aroii and St. Cro'is^ there arc r25i 4 acres of dyked marsh of the best (jualit}. In the hilly districts the soil is often stony and unpro- ductive. The useful minerals of Hants — are gyj)sunij commonly called pl.Kstcr, and limestone. The first of these is larj^ely quarried, esj)ecially near Windsor and the Shnhenacadie, and forms the chief export of the county. The occupation of the greater pan of the peo- ple— is agriculture, and the country in the neigh- bourhood of the rivers, and on some parts of the shore of the Bay, is well cultivated; but in the interior of the county, much valuable land is still unoccupied. The most important towns and settlements—* nre Windsor, the county town, on the East side of the Avon estuary; Newport on the Kennet- cook river; ivlaitland at the mouth of the Shu- benacadie, Falmouth, Noel ami Nine mile river. The most important educational institutions- are King's College, near Windsor, conducted by two professors, on the principles of the Church of England; and a collegiate Academy. The townships of Hants county — are Windsor, Falmouth, Newport, Kempt, Rawdon and Doug- lass. Each of the three first has a representa- tive in the Assembly. The first settlers in Hants — were the French, who occupied part of the township of Windsor. Their lands, immediately after their expulsion, were granted chiefly to persons residing in Hali- fax. The ot^ier parts of the county were settled between the years 1759 and 1784, by emigrants from New England and the North of Ireland, and by loydists from the Carolinasand disband- ed-soldiers. w or NOVA scoTfi. S5 •e arc rlbii Jo* i» ilie (and unpro- gyi)st.im, ►ne. The fcially near fovnis the of the peo- the neigh- >arts of the 2(1; hut in uahle Jand llements— * East side e Kennet- f the Shu- rnile river. :itutions— iducted by le Church Windsor, nd Doug- presenta- e French, Windsor, ixpulsion, in Ha li- re settled emigrants Ireland, disband- The population— in 1827 was 8G!i7j in 18*:&, 11S9D. It is now probably 14000. 9. — THE COUNTY OF HALIFAX. Halifax County is bounded— on the West l»y Lunenburg; on the Morth by Hants, Colchester and Pictou; on the East by Guysborough; and on the South by the Atlaniit* Its Be Margai Bi ts most important uays — are ivjargarei's xjuj, and Chebucto Bay or Halifax harbour; but be- side these there are numerous safe harbours and inlets along the whole coast. The principal rivers — are the Musquodoboity which is the largest river in the county; the Middle lliver of Sheet Harbour; the Sackville River; and the Shubenacadie, which rises in this county, and after passing through a chain of lakes, runs ior some distance along the boundary between Halifax and Hants. The lakes of Halifax county — are generally small. The Grand Lake of the Shubenacadie is the largest. The surface of this county — is generally un- even and rocky, and in many parts very sterile. On the margins of the rivers, however, especi- ally of the Musquodoboit,there are tracta of good soil; and near the town of Halifax, very stony soils have been rendered productive. The principal Towns — are Halifax and Dart- mouth, both on the harbour of Halifax. The most important agricultural settlements are those of the Musquodoboit river. On the coast are numerous settlements, the people of which are chiefly employed in the fisheries. The City of Halifax — is the capital of Nova Scotia^ and the principal uaval and military eta* ^-if n llil III G£OGRAPHT tion in the Lower Provinces. It was incorpor- uted in 1841. Its population is about S5,000. Tiie trade of Halifax — is extensive, as it is the principal depot for the importation of British, European and West Indian goods, and for the export of the produce of the fisheries. The educational institutions of the City of Halifax — are Dalhousie College, at present closed; St. Mary's College, taught by three professors and an assistant, and under the con- trol of ihe Roman Catholic Church. There are also several good schools. The principal public buildings in Halifax — are the Province building, containing apartments for the Legislative Council, House of Assembly, bupreme Court, and the various Provincial Offi- cers; the Government House, occupied by the Lieutenant Governor; Dalhousie College, the Court House, Penitentiary and Poor-house. The British Governnrent have erected at Halifax — an extensive dockyard for refitting ships of war; barracks for the troops stationed at Ha-- lax; and a strong fortification on Citadel Hill, overlooking the town. The City of Halifax was founded — in 1747, by English, Irish and German emigrants, brought thither at the expense of the British Govern* ment. Dartmouth was founded — in 1750, but in 1756 it was destroyed by the Indians. In 1784 it was again settled by emigrants from Nantucket, most of whom removed in 1793. Since that time its population has gradually increased. The townships of this county — are Halifax, Dartmouth, Laurencetown and Preston. The first of these has two representatives in the As* sembly. OF irOTA. SCOTIA •^ IS incorpor- It 25,000. as it is the of British, and for the e City of at present hy three er the con- There are alifax — are apartments Assembly, incial Offi- 3 led by the »'iege, the house, erected at itting ships led at Ha-, tadel Hill, -in 1747, 8, brought h Govern- utin 1756 784 it was 'ket, most ^t time its 3 Halifax, »n. The n the As* Eurltoii along the whole length The population of Ifalifax — in 1827 ^ns «4,876;in 1838, 28570. It is now about 38,000. 10. — THE COUNTY OF COLCHESTEH. Colchester is bounded — on the North and "West by Tatarnajjouche l>ay and Cund)erland county; on the South-west by Cobequid Bay anl>fH'uid chain, and cxtendini; \vr>t\vril(l troni of the county. Its Bays — are Cobequid Bay, the extremity of the northern arm of the Bay of Fundy; and Tatainagouche Bay on the shore of Northumber- land Straits. These baysaie the only harbours Colchester county. Its principal rivers — are the Stewiacke,a larpe tributary of the Shubenacadie; the Salmon, North, Chiganoi!=!, De Bert, Folly, Great Village, Portapique and Economy Rivers, running- into Cobequid Bay; French and Waugh's Rivers, running into Tatamagoucbe Bay. The surface of Coichester — is very diversified, and has a great variety of soils. The northern part, bordering on Tatamagoucbe P)ay — is low and level or gently undulating, and the prevailing soil is a fertile sandy loam. The hilly districts — extending from Earlton along the Cobequid ohain, present a succession of ridges and valleys, in their natural state cloth- ed with hardwood forests. The soils are often stony, but in some places are of great fertility. The part of the county south of the Cobequid ridge — has an undulating surface, generally sus- ii!l "2^ d^LOURAPHY ceptible of cultivation, though in some parts light and gravelly. It includes much river intervale, nnd valuable marsh lands on the shore of Cobe- quid Bay. The most valuable minerals of this county-— are iron ore, a large deposit of which occurs in the rear of Londonderry township; coal, of which there are small beds in various places; gypsum and limestone. The principal occu[)ation of the people of Colchester — is agriculture; ship-building and the lumber trade are also carried on, especially at Tatamagouche. The princi[)al towns and settlements — are Truro, the county town, at the head of Cobequid Bay; Tatamagouche on the shore of Northum- berland straits; nnd the settlements of Onslow, Londonderry, Economy, Stewiacke and Ealrton. The townships of Colchester — are Truro, On- slow and Londonderry, each of which has a representative in the Assend)ly. Colchester was first settled — by Acadian French, who cultivated the marshes of Londonderry, Onslow and Truro. After their expulsion, these townships were occupied by emigrants from the north of Ireland and Massachussetts. The f>opulation of Colchester — in 1827 was 7703; in 1838, 112^25. It U now about 16000. IL — THE COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND. Cumberland is bounded— on the North by Nor- thumberland Straits; on the North-west by New Brunswick, Cumberland Basin and Chiegnecto Bay; and on the South ,^nd South-east by Minas Channel and Basin, and the county of Colches- ter. and i OF NOVA SCOTIA. 29 le parts li ".'lit V intervale, re of Cobe- his county— . ch occurs in i; coal, of ious places; people of Hngand the (specially at jments — are jf Cobequid r North urn- of Onslow, nid Ealrfon. Truro, On- hich has a lian French, )n(Ionderry, Ision, these Its from the 1 J 827 was It 16000. AND. th by Nor- ?st by New Chiegnecto t by Minas of Colche«- Its principal harbours — are Piii^wash and Wal- lace on the Jiortli cofist; Cntnnerland Basin, Apple River and l^•utri(lge iblanil on the coast of the liay of Fundy. Its largest rivers — are llie Ilebert, Maccan and Nil pan rnnninij irito Cnniberlnnd Basin; the Partri(l<5'p- Island river runninir into JVlinas Basin; and the Wallace, Philip and Shininiicas runnin;^ into Nortlinndjorland Straits. lis principal range of hills — is the Cobnquid chain, which extends eastward iVoin Cape (Ihieg- necto i\H it enters Colchest(M' conntv. It forms a broad and rather extensive tract of brokerlanrincipal branches of industry pursued in this county — are agriculture; shipbuilding and lumbering, which are extensively carried on espe- cially on the northern coast; and the quarrying of grindstones, which is pursued at the Joggins. 'Phe principal towns and villages — are Amherst, the county town, near Cumberland Basin; Pug- c HfeiF^ I m 96 GEOaftAPHY 1 i wash and Wallace on the shore of Northumber- land Strait; Mill Village and Parrsboro, on the Minas Basin. The townships of Cumberland — arc Amherst, Wallace and Parrsboro'. The first only has u representative in the Assembly. The first settlers in Cumberland — were French emigrants, some of whoso descendants still re- main in the county. The earliest ]5ritish set- lers were emigrants from the New England "Jtatcs, Vorkshire and the North of Ireland. The population of Cumberland — in 1827 was i41G; in 1838, 7572. It is now about 9000. 12. — THE COUNTr OF PICTOU. Pictou is bounded — on the South-west and West by Colchester; on the North by Northum- berland Strait; on the East by Sydney county; on the South by Halifax and Guysborough counties. Its principal harbours — are River John, Car- riboo, Pictou and Merigomish. Its largest rivers — Jire River .lohn, the East, Middle and West Rivers of Pictou; Suther- land's, French and Barney's Rivers. The surface of this county — is in general un- dulating or rising into low hills. In the western I)art of the county, is a group of hills which are outliers of the Cobequid range; the principal of these is Mount Thom. In the southern part of the county, there is a more extensive hilly dis- trict, which though not very elevated, often has vl broken and rocky surface. The soil^ — in the lower parts of the county, is generally of good quality, and everywhere capa- ble of cultivation. In the hilly districts it la often iton; the I tains tcrvj r iron r luml porl^ ■■11 ^. Ml: .1*^ % i OP KOVA SCOTIA. 31 IVorthumher- boro, on the re Amherst, t only has a vere French nnts still re- J^ritish set- ^v England leland. 1 1827 was 9000. u, h-west and ^ North uin- ney county; uy sboro ugh John, Car- ij the East, u; Suther- sneral un- le western which are I'incipal of ni part of hilly dis- ften has a county, is ere ea pa- it la often itony; hut these districts also contain some of the most iertilo soils of the county. Pictou con- tains no marsh lands, but there are valuable in- tervales on the margins of all the rivers. The useful minerals of this county — are coal, iron ore, freestone, gypsum and limestone. The principal exports — arc coal; ships and lumber; agricultural produce, especially oatmeal, pork and butter; grindstones and freestone. The coal exported from Pictou — is procured at the Albion Mines on the East river. The quantity shipped in 1847 was 80,000 chaldrons. The coals are conveyed from the mines to the loading ground, on the south side of Pictou har- bour, by a railway. The principal towns and villages — are Pictou, the county town, on the north side of Pictou harbour; New Glasgow and the Albion Mines on the East Uiver; Bellevue on the River John. The agricultural settlements are numerous and extensive. The principal educational institution — is Pictou Academy, founded in 1816, and at present con- ducted by thiee professors. It is under no de- nominational control. The townships of this county — are Pictou, Egerton and Maxwellton. The iirst of these sends a representative to the Assembly. The first settlers in Pictou — were emigrants from Maryland, who arrived in 1765. They were joined, eight years afterward, by 30 families from the Highlands of Scotland. The greater part of the present population consists of Scots- men and their descendants. The population of Pictou — in 1827 was 15,949. in 1838, 21,449. it is now about 26,000 33 GEOGRAPfir 13. — THE COUNTY OF RYDNEV. Sydney is bounded — on the North and East by Northuinberhind Strait, St. George's Bay and the Gut of Canseau; on the West l)y Pictou county; und on the South-east by Guysborough. The principal harbours — are Antigonish, Pom- ket, Tracadie, Harbour Au Bouchn; there is also a pier for the shelter of small vessels at Arisaig. The largest rivers — are the South, West and Right's River, running into Antigonish harbour; and Potnket River, running into the harbour of the same name. The principal range of hills — is that extending westward from Cape St. George, and connected with the hills of Pictou t:ounty. The only considerab*^ lake — is Lochaber or College Lake, a beautiful sheet of water five miles in lengih. «j The surface of Sydney — presents a large and fertile valley of a triangular form, occupying the centre of the county, and bouaded on two sides by broken anc' hilly districts which meet in the western part of the county; these hills are not of great elevation, and coniam many tracts of good soil. The useful minerals of Sydney — are gypsum and limestone; the former of these is exported, though not in large quantity. The principal branches of industry — are agri- culture and the fishery. The principal exports are ctttle, sheep, grain and fish. The most important towns and settlements — are Antigonish, the county town, situated at the confluence of the Right's and West Rivers, Arisaig, Tracadie, South River and Lochaber. The townships of Sydney — are Dorchester or dre 1 ban Th the Ihm« COM I It OF NOVA SCOTIA. 33 «n(I East by Bay and the 3toii couiityj ^h onish, Pom- here is also ftt Arisaig. West and sii harbour; • harbour of t extending i connected ^ochaber or water five a large and ■"Pying the n two sides iieet in the Is are not y tracts of e gypsurn exported, -are agri- il exports lements—- tuated at it Rivers, ^ochaber. orchester or Antigonir^h, Arisaig, 'rracadie niM. 5JI* Aw- drews. Tho (irsf IJritisb settlors in Sydney — worr h- bniidod soldiers who vv(!re hnNitcd there in I < '♦4. The jjjreuter |)art of the prescMit popul.itioii ot* the (M)Uiity, consists of oimgrants from the llij;h- laiids anM5(\'=;s is bourulcd — on the North-west by the (iu!f of St. Lawrence; on the West and South-west l)v St. Georfie's Bav and the Gut of Canseau; on the south-east by ilichmond coun- ty and the Bras D'Or Lake; on the East by Cape lireton county. Its princii):d bays and harb-nirs — are Whyko- kon)a5,'h ixud Basin St. I)eny's,on the Bras D'Or Lake; Ship Harbour, in the Gut of Caudcau; 36 r.KOfiRAPHY ^lijli m Port Hood, Mahou, Marofirio and Clioticamp, on tho roast of the Gulfof Lawrence. 'I'he larv^est river — is the Marijarie wliicl) is- sues from Ainslie or Murgarie Lake, the largest Ijody of fresh water in Cape Breton, and rnns into the Gulf of St Lawrence. The surface of this county — in the northern parr, hetween Cape St. Lawrence and Margarie, is generally elevated and unproductive. Tho southern part of the county, is lower and the soil almost everywhere valuable. The greater part of the j)opulation is employed — in agriculture; but tlie fishery and the lumber trade- are also pursued to a considerable extent* The principal towns and settlements — are Port Hoo«i, and runs he northern 1 iVlargnrie, ctivc. rho and the soil is omployod the Inrn'ber thle extent* nients — are Marirarie (hiif .;rst. ^ut of Can- Port Hood, re French, I>'>pnlarion ;'dand8 of !42. It is IN. orth-west h-west by the East spy Bay, •as D'Or, "i>5^ Har- bour and Gaharus Bay on the Atlantic coast; and East Arm and St. Patrick's Channel on the Bras D'Or Lake. Its largest Islands — are Bonlardarie Island, between the Great and Litte Bras D'Or; and Scatari, which is the most western part of the Province. Its principal rivers — are the Mirr; which is properly a long and narrow lake; and Bedeque river. In this county are the promontories — of Cape North and Cape Enfumr. The former is the most northern point of the Province, the latter said to be the highest headland in Cape Breton. The surface of this county — is in the northern part elevaled and barren; but in the central and southern parts generally undulating and of mo- derate fertility. The valuable minerals of Cape Breton county ^-are coal, gypsum and limestone. The first of these is extensively worked at North Sydney by the General Mining Association. The principal towns and settlements — are Syd- ney, the county town, on the harbour of the same name; the Mines, at North Sydney; Bedeque, and various other settlements on the shore of Bras D'Or Lake. The townships of Cape Breton — are Sydney, St. Patrick's, and St. Andrew's. The first has a representative in the Assembly. In this county are the ruins — of Louisburg, founded by the French Government in 1720, as their principal naval and commercial station on the coast of North America. It was taken by the British Provincial troops m 1715, restored to the French in 1749; and retaken and destroy- ed on 17tS. sa GEOGRAPHY The first settlers in this county — wore French. The greater part ot* the present inhabitants arc emigrants from Scotland and Ireland, and their descendants. The population — is now probably about 20 000. The return in 1833 was 14.] 11, but it did not include the whole county. SABLE ISLAND. Sable Island — is a dependency of Nova Scotia. It is situated between north latitude 44° and 44° 7\ and between west longitude 60° 12^ and 59° 40\ It is distant from Cai)e Canseau about 87 geogra- phical miles. Its breadth varies from 1 to 2 miles and its length is 25 miles. It consists — of sand thrown up by the sea and wind, and forming hillocks, some of which are 100 feet in height. The greater part of its sur- face is covered with coarse grass, and cranberry and whortleberry bushes; and this vegetation supports a few herds of wild horses and great numbers of rabbits. Sable Island is best known — as the scene of nu- merous shipwrecks; its position in the usual track of ships sailing betvveen Britain and Nova Scotia, and the shoals by which it is surrounded, causing it to be extremely dangerous to naviga- tors. For this reason there are stationed on the Isl- and— a superintendant and several men, who are supported at the joint expense of the government of Nova Scotia and Great Britain, for the pur- pose of rescuing and aiding shipwrecked seamen. m ro French. bitants arc and their out 20.000. it (lid not ova Scotia. Jind 44° 7\ ml 59° 40\ 87 geogra- to 2 miles e sea and which are of its sur- c ran berry vegetation and great eneof nu- the usual Eind Nova rrounded, 0 naviga- 1 the Is]' I, who are ve run lent the pur- i seamen. Section IL-I^atural History. i.—c L I M A T E . The climate of Nova Scotia — is influenced by the position of the Province on the eastern side of the continent of North America, «nd bv the great surface of the northern part of that contin- ent. From these causes, its extremes of temper- ature are greater than those of countries in the same biLitude, in Europe and the western coast of America. It is also influenced — by the abnost insub'ir Iposition of the Province; which mo(bfies the ef- fects of the preceding circumstances, and renders |the climate somewhat less extreme and alsio more variid)!e than that of Canada. i. The extremes and means of temperature — are as follow: the mean temperature of the year is 43° of Fahrenheit's thernmmeter; the extreme of cold 24^ I)clovvzero; the extreme of heat 95°, in the shade. 'I here are in the year about 20 nights in which the tem|>erature is below zero, and about 100 hot days, in which the ienii)erature is above 40 NATURAL HISTORV / 70° in summer or above 62° in the remainder of the year, Tho annual amount of rain — is about 41 inohe^. or the above quantity about (i.^ inches fall in thr form of snow, making the annual depth of snow al>o«U 8^ feet. The prevailing winds — aro the south-west and north-west, though in early s[)ring easterly winds often continue for some tijne. The north, north- west and west winds are in summer cool and drv, and in winter intensely cold; the south-west is mild and agreeable, but in spring and autumn sometimes showery ami violent; the south and south-east winds are rainy and often stormy, and on the Atlantic coast frequently accompanied by fog. The north-east wind is in sumrrter wet and ilisagreeable, and in winter brings heavy snow storms. The first quarter of the year — includes the depth of winter. January is often the coldest month, its mean temperature being usually below 21^. February is seldom warmer than January, and sometimes colder; and March is still cold and wintery, though its mean tem[>eratnre some- tifues rises 8- higher than that of January. The mean temperature of the quarter is 22*^, and the weather is generally clear and frosty, with occa- siomil rain and snow storms. The second quarter — includes the transition from winter to sunnner. In '\pril the snow and ice of winter generally disappear, migratory birds begin to anive, and the temperature rises to 35°, though there are still occasional falls of snow. In May the remainder of the migratory birds arrive, the trees put forth their leaves, and sowing is usually completed. In June the coun- try presents the aspect of summer, the trees being i:«^„^fi,M*s^^iim'mf^!:«^mii\^ ttT NOVA SCOTIA. 4\ reryiainder of Hit 41 inohe<. les fall ill tho >th of snow Jth-vvest and sterly winils lorih, north- ool and dry, • uth-vvest is and autiinin 0 south and stormy, and nipanied by ner wet and leavy snow noludos the the coldest ually below m .January . s still cold atnre sorne- J'lry. 'I'he 2^ and the with occa- e transition e snow and migratory ature rises lal falls of * migratory eaves, and 3 the CO un- trees being 1 in full leaf and many wild flowers in bloom j and the mean temperature exceeds 50° The mean temperature of this quarter is about 49° The third quarter — includes the warmest part tjf summer and the commencement of autumn. July is the warmest month, its mean temperature i^xceeding 65°, and the heat in sunny days becom- ing oppressive, though mitigated by occasional ihowers: wild strawberries ripen. In August the temperature begins to diminish, cherries and other early fruits ripen, and harvest begins. In Sefjtember the mean temperature falls to about 66°, the nights beCohie sufficiently frosty to des- troy tender plants, though the daj'S are still warm, and migratory birds begin to depart. In ihe latter part of this quarter there are often /iolent storms; its mean temper.ature'is about 62°* The last quarter — embraces the autumn and earlier part of winter. In October the tempera- ture falls below 50°, the leaves of the trees change their colours and begin to fall, late fruits are gathered and harvest is conf luded. In Novem- ber the days are still often agreeable^ but the nights are usually cold, and in the latter part or the month there are] violent storms of snow and rain. UecemLgr is a, winter month, m it the A temperature falls to about 36°, the inland waters ^freeze, and there are usually heavy snow storms., cThe mean temperature of this quarter is about 1 35° ^ ^ ; The local varieties of climate — are consider- ' able. In the south-western parts of the Pro- . vince, the climate is more equable and mild than ' ' in the eastern counties; but in winter there is ' more wet weather ai?d in summer the coast is often enveloped in fog. In the eastern parts of the Province the winters are more steady and D i y^i except in the finest ex* posures snd seasons. ir.-^GEOLOGY, THE NATURAL HISTORY OF ROCE F0RMATI05Sr The rock formations of NovaSeotia — belong'jta four geological systems, which are, in ascending order, or proceeding from the older to tbe newer. 1st. The] Primary or older Metamorphic sys- tem. 2nd. The Silurian system. Srd. The Carboniferous system. 4th. The new red sandstone system. The Primary %a MATIOWS.^ -belonff^to- ascending h-e newer. rphic sys- ^a Scotia, !lay slate, firee min- mally oc- >Si and i& the vol- In the sally col- I ourless, the felspar white or reiidish, and the mica m dark coloured shining scales. Quartz rock— is silica or flint, usually of a granular texture, and oflen intermixed with for- eign'substances. It generally occurs in beds or thick layers, and is probably sandstone hardened and altered by subterranean heat. The quartz rock of Nova Soctia is usually of a rather dark grey colour. It is sometimes improperly called whinstone. Clay Slate — is distinguished by its fine texture, and lamination or property of splitting mto thin plates. Some of the varieties found in NovaScotia are fine grained with glistening surfaces; others are coarse and hard. The prevailing colour is a dark slate. This rock often contains iron py- rites or sulphuret of iron, which becoming de- composed, when exposed to the weather, gives it a rusty appearance. In consequence of this, some varieties of slate are locally known by the name of " ironstone.'' Mica slate — is a mixture of mica and quartz, ^livisible like common slate into luminae or plates. It abounds in the northern part of Cape Breton and the cast of Nova Scotia. The primary system— occupies the counties of Yarmouth, Sbelburne, Queen's, Lunenburg and Halifax, the southern half of Guysborough, and the south of Digby, Annapolis and King's. It also occupies the northern part of Cape Breton. Useful minerals — have not yet been found in this system; it has, however, as yet been little explored. The granite which abounds in it, is often of excellent quality for building and for mill-stones, but has not yet been worked to any great extent. The soils of the primary system-— are the poor- f m I Ui NATURAL HISTOKlr" in the provincej being generally stony iiml Joai productive. They may in general be est soldoai productive. They may greatly improved by the use of lime. The Silurian System-^is the oldest fossilifer- ous systom of geologists. In Nova Scotia it con- sists principally of slates, shales, grits and thin bedded coarse limestones, sometimes filled with fossil shells. In many parts of the Province, the rocks of thiis system are very much altered by heat, being converted into quartz and slate much resembling those of the older metamorphic sys- tem; and ^associated with syenite, greenstone, porphyry and other igneous rocks. 1 he slates of thvs system in Nova Scotia — are often as perfect in their slaty structure as those of the primary system, but differ from [them in containing fossils, and in pr^sQjiting a grjQater variety of colours. ■. --' Its shales, gritd and limestones — ar6 mi?ctu)res in various proportions, of clay, sand and carbonate of lime. They are usually hard^ thin-bedded and dark coloured. Syenite-^is a crystalline igneous reck, nearly related to granite, but containing hornblende m-' stead of mica. The syenite found in Nova Sco- tia usually has Colourless quartz, reddish or gray- ish felspar, and black hornbknde; the felspar is the predominanjt ingredient) ai^d givos its co- lour to the rock, .rmt , rtUff! '? » «i*i! » --nf hr»r, i Greenstone and porphyry— aire igneous rocks, generally less perfectly crystalline than syenite. The first is a mixture of felspar, usnaljy white, and hornblende usually black or greenish. The second consists of a base of hornblende rock or compact felspar, with crystals of lighter colour- ed felspar dispersed through it. Tjhe fossils of the SUuifka system jiti J^ova OP NOVA SCOTIA. 45 I Scotia — n»*c marine shells, Crustacea and corals/' all of species now extinct. In Nova Scotia proper — the silurian system and its igneous rocks occupy two elongated belts, one extending along the Cobequid chain of hills, the other extending through the centre of Digby, Annapolis and King's, the south of Hants, Colchester and Pictou, and the highlands of Sydney and Guysborough. These two belts in- clude all the higher hills of the Province. In Cape Breton — the silurian system occupies*' a small space in the southern part of Cape Bre- ton county, but its general limits are not yet well ascertained. The useful minerals of this system — are iron ore, which occurs in large quantity and chiefly in the form of peroxide, at Nictaux and Cle- ments, at Folly mountain in Londonderry, and at the East river of Pictou; limestone, which does not however abound in this system; and . roofing slate. The surface— ^where the rocks of this system ! prevail, is generally hilly and often stony, but aflfords soils which are always much superior lo those of the primary districts, aud are often very ^ fertile. ' r .i- The Carboniferous System — is newer than the silurian, and in most parts of Nova Scotia rests immediately npon it. The rocks composing this ' system, in Nova Scotia, are red and gfey sand- * stonesj shales, conglomerates^ gypsum, limestone; and coal. All of these are stratified or beddedj and alternate vt^ith each other. Conglomerate^consists of gravel or rounded ' fragments of stone, cemented together, and form- ing a rock often of considerable hardness. f^andstone— is silicions snnd rcmcnled \ni(f' 4$ VATVSLKV HISTORY •i •I Btone. It varies much in colour and hardness*- In Nova Scotia its usual colours ure red, buff and grey; and some varieties are so soft ns to crumble in the fingers, others nearly as hard as quartz rock. The coarser and pebbly varieties approach the conglomerates in their texture, and the finer, composed of fine sand intermixed with chiy, pass into shales. The shale of the coal formation — consists of clay of various degrees of hardness, and often divisible into thin layers. Its prevailmg colours are reddish, brown, grey and black. Gypsum — is the sulphate of lime^ Two speciesr are found in Nova Scotia, common gypsum or ** plaster'* which contains about 'il per cent of water, an(f is so soft that it can be scratched by the nail; and anhydrous gypsmn or ** hard plas- ter," which contains no water awd is much hard- er than the common variety. Both varieties of gypsum abound in the carboniferous system of Nova Scotia, forming in some places very thick beds. Limestone— is the carbonate of lime. Numer- ous beds of this rock, varying much in colour and quality, occur in the carboniferous system of Nova Scotia. The coal of Nova Scotia— is of the bituminous and caking variety. The beds hitherto discov- ered are not numerous, but some of them are very large ami valuable^ and are extensively worked. The ag-gregate thickness of the carboniferous system in Nova Scotia — is very great; and it may be usefully divided into three subordinate groups, named respectively, the okter, middle and newer. kKKhS5ArCWr4.;;f1,,fia; ^^ or WOVA SCOTIA. 47 In the o(tlei\cnrbonireroiis series* — the prevail- mg rocks are reddish sandstones, shales^ conglo^ inerates and marls, including beds of grey and dark shale, limestone and gypsum. This series includes all the most important beds of limestone and gypsum; and in some places irs fissuret» contain valuable de)>osits of brown hematite, a variety of iron ore, and sulphate of Baryies, a Bubstance used in the manufacture of paints. The middle carboniferous series — includes the coal measures, properly so called, ^vhich contain productive beds of coal. The prevailing rocks in this group are grey and dark coloured sand- stones and shales, with a few reddish beds. It includes all the valuable beds of coal in the Pro- vince^ and also layers of clay-ironstone and beds of freestone and grindstone. In the newer carboniferous series — reddish sandstones, shales and conglomerates again pre- vail, though there are numerous grey beds. This series contains a few beds of coal, limestone and gypsum; but they are generally of little im- portance* It affords however valuable beds of freestone aad grindstone* * The older carboniferous seiies was rormeriy sapposed to belong to the new red sandstone system. This error aro»e ft cm the circumstance that its gen- eral appearnnce and mineral character greatly resem- ble those of the new red sandstone groups of other countries. Those readers who wish more full iivfor. Illation on this and other subjects noticed in the ar- ticle on geology, are referred to Mr. L^^elPs Travels in North America, and to various papers in tire proceed- ings and journal of the Geological Society «f London, by Mr. Lyell, Mr. Logan, Mr. BrowO; of Sydney, and Mr. Dawson, of Piclou. I 41 KATURAL histor¥ The fossils of the carbon iforous system— nre numerous nnd hiifhiy iritcrcstin;^. The lifiie- htones of its oldnr part contain j,neat quantities of shells, corals and scales and teeth of lish, often in a very ]»erfect condition^ as well as a few fossil plants; its middle and newer parts, beside large ciuantities of vegetable mutter in the form of coal, include a vast variety of leaves and trunks of plants, having their forms and some- limes their internal structure very perfectly pre- served. All the fossil remains of the carboni- ferous system are of species now extinct. The carboniferous system occupies — a small part of the east of King's Countyj the north and middle of Hants; the greater part of the lowlands of Colchester; the lowlands of Cumberland, Pictou and Sydney, and part of Guysborough. In Cape Breton it occupies much of the eastern Iiart of Cape Breton county, the greater part of lichmond and the south of Inverness. The localities of valuable beds of coal — are the northern part of Cumberland, especially the Joggins and Spring hill; the East liiver of Pictou, where the thickest bed yet discovered in the Province occurs; the eastern part of Cape Breton County, especially at North Sydney; the northern part of Colchester, where some small beds have been discovered; and probably the south of Inirerness county in Cape Breton. ' The localities of the Iron ores of the carboni- ferous system — are the mouth of the Shubena- cadie and the East river of Pictou, where veins of hematite occur in the older carboniferous sys- tem; and the coal measures of Cumberland, Col- chester, Pictou and Cape Breton, which contain beds of clay ironstone. The principal localities of beds of jjypsum — OF NOV\ SCOTFA. 'I'J cm — nro e linio- itities of 1, often ' a few I beside • he form • 'es and J some- • iy pre- arboni- t small •th and wlands erland, rough. tasterii nut of I — are \y the er of ed in Cape ; the small r the joni-' )ena- ^eins sys*" ICol- tain n — are, ncnrly all the north and middle of Hant.«, various places in the south and tniddio of Col- chester, the northern part of Cumberland and Wallace in its eastern part, the F2nst river of Pictou, the neighbourhood of Antigonish in Syd< ney county; various parts of the northern shore of Bras D'Or lake in Cape liretonj and Plaster Cove in the Gut of Canseau. Useful beds of limestone — occur in all the lo- calities of gypsum above mentioned/and in many other parts of the carboniferous tlistricts. The surface of the carboniferoi's system — is undulating, and sometimes rises into elevations of 500 feet in height. Its soils vary from sandy loams to stiff clays, but are almost universally capable of cultivittion, and include the most valu- tible uplands in the Pmvince. The New Red Sandstone — is a much later de- posit than the carboniferous system, and proba- bly corresponds with the Triassic system or up- per new red sandstone of Europe. In Nova Scotia it consists entirely of red sandstone and red conglomerate, and is associated with great masses of trap. Trap — is a dark coloured rock whose princi- pal constituent mineral is augite. It is similar m composition and appearance to the lava of modern volcanoes, and has like it been ejected in -a melted state, from the interior of the earth. In Nova Scotia extensive eruptions of this rock ■have occurred during the period of the deposi- jtion of the new red sandstone. The new red sandstone occupies — the isthmus connecting Digby Neck with the main land, and the long valley extending fi-om Annapolis to • Mjnas Basin; it skirts the shores of Cobequid 'Bay, from the mouth pf th^ Shubenacadie to 50 17ATX7RAL HISTORY ? Truro; and extends along the north side of the Bay, in a narrow though continuous belt, from Truro to Moose river, and beyond that river in isolated patches, as far as Cape D'Or. The Trap associated with the new red sand- stone— forms the ridge extending from Cape Blomidon to Briar Island; and on the opposite sideofMinas Channel and Basin, several isolated patches between the Five Islands and Cape Ghiegnecto, the Five Islands themselves, Two Islands, Partridge Island, Spencer^s Island and Isle Haut. In most of these localities, the trap rests on the new red sandstone. Neither useful minerals nor fossils — have yet been found in the sandstone of this system. The trap connected with it affords abundance of agates, jaspers and other forms of quartz, which might be used fyv ornamental purposes. The soils of the new red sandstone — are ]is;ht and sometimes gravelly, but in general fertile. Those of the trap are rich, though the surface of the hills of this rock is often too precipitous to admit of their easy cultivation. In addition to the formations above described — there are superficial deposits of two kinds; drift or boulder clay, and river and marine alluvium. The Drift — is spread over a large part of the surface of the Province. It consists of clay with stones and boulders, or of beds and mounds of gravel. This deposit'marks the last change which the surface has undergone by the agencv of water. The Alluvium-^onsisia of fine mud deposited l)y the tides and rivers, and whose deposition is in matiy places still proceeding. Of this nature are the large and valuable tracts of dyked marsh, and the intervales on the the margins of most of tiie rivers of tho Province. w^^smj. (le of the elt, from i river in '6(1 sanil- 3m Cape opposite I isolated id Cape res, Two iland and the trap have yet m. The dance of :, which re ]i|rht fertile, surface )itous to sribed — s; drift uvium. of the ay with unds of which water. )osited ition is nature marshy Dost of or NOVA SCOTIAr 5f I I I~Z OOLOGY THE NATURAL HISTORY OP ANIMALS. THE VERTEBRA.TED ANIMALS— Forming the first great divison of the nnimaf kingdom; are distinguished by possessing an in- ternal bony skeleton. They may be arranged irr Four Classes. Ist. Mammah, or those which bring forth their young alive and suckle rheiii with milk. 2nd{y. Birds. 3rdly. Reptiles. 4thty. Fishes. ... '.-v..-,-- ^^ ........ , .. . , ■,, -i ■ lU CLASS 1st. — MAMMALS. T The animals of this class indigenous to Nova Scotia — belong to the foFFowing Orders: 1st. Carnivora or flesh eating animals. Snd. Rodentia or gnawing animals 3rd. Huminantia or ruminating animals. 4th. Cetacean, the whale tribe. 'jH "iV. Order L — Carnivora, 1. The Bat, (Vespertilio,) — The Bats are distinsuisbed by the broad membrane stretched ever their legs and the lengthened fingers of their fore feet, and which enables them to fly. They prey on insects, which they take on the wing^ they are active only in the summer eveningSy spending the day in hollow trees und similar places of concealment, and passing the winter in a state of torpidity. A small species is not uncommon in Nova Scotia. 2. The Star-nosed Mole, (Condylura Lon- gicaudataj) — is a burrowing animal, spending the greater part of its life underground, and feed- jng on worms and grubs; a mode of life for which its broad shovel-like fore feet, its tirni and 'm NATURAL HISTOar thick fur, its small and deeply sunken eyes, and the delicate feelers surrounding the point of its nose, admirably fit it. It spends the winter in a state of torpidity. * - . 3. The Shrew Mice, (Sorex), — There are two species of Shrew Micejn Nova Scotia, both very small animals, one of them being the small- est quadruped in the Province. They are noc- turnal animals, and prey on insects. 4. The Bear, (Ursus Amerieanus), — This is the largest carnivorous quadruped in the- Pro- vince. It frequently destroys sheep, but is not dangerous to man, unless when attacked by him. In summer it subsists in part on berries and other vegetable substances. In the depth of winter it becomes torpid The bear in Nova Scotia' some- times attains the weight of 400 pounds; its flesh is valued for food. • ' r 4 5. The Raccoon, (FrOCVOTi Lofor).— This animal much resembles the Bear in its structure and habits, but is much smaller, being us^jally about three feet in length. It subsists in part on the flesh of smaller animals and in part on nuts and fruits. It becomes torpid in w'inter. It is a^ nocturnal animal, and during the day conceals itself in hollow trees and similar pljices. Its fur is used bv hatters. 6. The Wolverene or Glutton, (^Gulo Lus- cusY — This is a rare animal in Nova Scotia. It is sly, cunning and voracious, but its strength and ferocity have been much exaggerated. It feeds exclusively on the flesh of animals. 7. The Weasel^Family, or (J)iusleUdae). — Of this family;? species are found in Nova Scotia, viz: the Ermine, (Mustela Ermitiea) ; the Wea- sel, (M. Communis) y the Martin, {M. Maries); OF NOVA SCOTIA. 3^ yes, and ►int of its nter in a rr lere are tia, both e small- ire noc- -This is he Fro- nt is not by h,ira. lid other vinter it i a' sonne- ts flesh —This I'ucture uauAlly part on on nuts It is a, onceals Its fur lo Lus- tia. It rength ed. It Srotia, Wea- trtes) : thePishcr,(jVi. Canadensis) ;the Skunk, (JVi<;/)/ii7M Jiiaericana) ; the Mink, {Mustela] ^^ison); the Otter, (Lutra Canadensis), All these speoies are very active and voracious, and destroy greac numbers of the smaller animals. The two last named frequent the water and prey on fish. Tin; furs of all the species are useful; those of the Martin (called Sable inEurope) and of the Otter are most valuable. The Ermine is brown in sunmier and becomes white in winter. 8. The Lynx or Wild Cat, and the Lolp Cervier or LuciFEEj (^Felis Canadensis, Fetifi ). The Lynx, like other animals of the Cat family, is exclusively carnivorous, and se- cures its prey by springing upon it. It subsists on hares, partridges an(f other smaller animals. 1 ■ek'o appear to be two species in Nova Scotia, ?' n respectively as the Wild Cat and Luci- i< ' The skins of both are used as furs. 9. The Wolf, (Canis Lupus Jlmericanus) ; is rare in Nova Scotia, and was not known to exist in the Province till 1845, when a few individuals made their appearance, and were supposed to have migrated from New Brunswick. Their numbers appear to have increased since 1845, and in some settlements they have destroyed consi- derable numbers of sheep. The shyness and cun- ning of the Wolf and its nocturnal habits, render its capture very didicult. 10. The Fox, (Canis Fulvus); is rather abun- dant in Nova Scotia, and subsists on small quad- rupedsjand birds, occasionally destroying domestic fowls. The cross Fox, (Canis Decussatus) ^ and the black or silver grey Fox, (C. Argentalus) are varieties of the sunio species, but are com paratively rare. The fur of the Fox is valuable u NATURAL HISTORT i but that of the red is much less so than that of the cross or black. i^ 11. The SEAhSi'(Phocida€), Several species of Seals are found on the coast of Nova Scotia, and are pursued for the sake of their skins and blub- ber. They are all carnivorous, feedinj^ on fish, and spend the greate«* part of their lives in the water, though at some seasons laey are fond of reposing on the shore or on ice. The Sea Cow or Morse, (Trichecus Ttosmarus) ^ which belongs to this family, cannot now be included among the animals of Nova Scotia, but is said formerly to have been found on Sable Island. -.-lAT . .' ■ y''- t-.t\ mV.- Order '2. — Rodeniia^ , /' , *" 1. The Hare, (Lepus Jlmericanus) ; is usu- ally named in Nova Scotia the *^ Rabbit." They are very numerous, especially in young woods of the second growth, and great numbers are taken by wire snares in winter. The colour of the hare changes in winter from brown to white. Its flesh is palatable and its fur is used by hatters, though it is of Utile value. 2. The Marmot or Wood Chuck, (.^rr^owiys). This is a burrowing animal, rather smaller than the Hare, and of a dull brown colour. It subsists on roots and leaves, and becomes torpid in win- ter. Its flesh is eaten bv the Indians. 4. The Porcupine, (Hystrix Dorsata) ; \s re- markable for the strong and sharp spines inter- mixed with its hair, and which serve as a defence against the aitacks of dogs and other carnivorous animals. It feeds on bark, buds and nuts, and prefers rocky and secluded localities. Its flesh 19 eaten by the Indians, and the spines or e( Ii C( (• S( Si 6p nova scotU. ^5 n that of species of 30tia, aiifl and blub- ; on fish, es in the J fond of Sea Cow h be long's monflf the merly to IS nsii- l They ? woods )ers are olour of 0 white, hatters, tomys). er than subsists n win- ; is re- inter- lefence vorous s, and s flesh les or quills, after being dyed with gay colonrs, are us- ed for ornamenting baskets and other articles of Indian manufacture. 5. The SQUIRRELS. Of these three species are common in Nova Scotia; the ground Squirrel, {Sicurus Listeri), The common or *' English" squirrel, (Sicurus Hudsonicus). The flying Squirrel, {Pteromys Sabrinus). All these spe- cies feed principally on nuts aud seeds, and make their nests or burrows in the roots or hollow parts of trees. The flying Squirrel is nocturnal in its habits^ and remarkable for the expanded skin of its sides, which forms a broad surface support- ing the animal in the air, and enabling it to make extraordinary leaps. 6. The Bewer, (Castor Fiber ^merieanus), is a social or gregarious animal, and inhabits the margins of brooks and ponds, where it subsists on aquatic plants and the bark of young trees. Families of Beavers unite in making artificial ponds in the course of lakes arid streams, by con- struvning embankments of wood and mud; and in these ponds^ they build neat and strong winter habitations of the same materials. Their re- markably strong and large incisor teeth enable them, in the execution of these works to cut down trees of twelve inches in diameter. The value of the Beaver's fur, which is us^ed by hatters, and its stationary mode of life, have caused it to ')e extirpated from all the settled parts of the Province, and it is now rare even in the most secluded localities. - 7. The Musk Rat or MustiuASH, (Fiber Zi- bethicus)y much resembles the Beaver, but is considerably smaller. It inhabits the banks of rivers and lakesj and constructs a house of mud m: llATURAL HISTORY for itM winter habitation. Its fooil is roots nnd other vegetable suiistances, and occasionally Bheli-6sh. Jts flesh is eaten by the Indians, and its fur is used Iiv hatters, though it is less valu- able than that of the beaver. 8. The Burrowing Field Mouse, (Arvicola Pennsylvamca), This animal, which is much larger than the domestic Mouse, and more clum- sy m its shape, is very abundant in the woods as well as the fields; it excavates burrows in which it constructs a warm nest of hay. In winter it burrows under the snow, and subsists on the roots of grass. 9. The Leaping Field Mouse, (Meriones Lahradoricus) , is more rare than the last species. It is a pretty little creature of a light brown col- our above and whitish beneath, and has a long* tail and strong hind limbs, which enable it to leap with great agility. h ^r . i *> Mif : Orders. — Ituniinantia, -m.. . 1, The MoasE or Elk, {Alces Amerieana), This IS the largest quadruped indigenous to Nova Scotia. It is a majestic animal, though of rather clumsy fornr. Its principal food is the leaves and twigs of trees; its flesh when m good condi- tion is excellent. Moose are still numerous in some parts of Nova Scotia, and in winter, when the snow is deep and they are unable to advance rapidly, they are pursued by men on snow shoes, and killed. ^ • 2. The Caribou or Rein Deer, (Cerviis Ta- randus); is much smaller than the Moose, but is of more elegant shape, and greater swiftness, find its fl^sh is of superior cmality. It is proba- bly idt^ntical with the Rein Dee/of Lapland, and oy Nova scotia- 57 ots nml sionally ^nSf and 3s valu- irvicola s much 3 clum- oods ns I which inter it on the friones pedes, vn col- a Jong* » it to ana). Nova ather eavf»s ns in vhen- ance loes, Ta^ ut is less, )bn- and might like it be domesticated and rendered use- ful to man. It is now rare in Nova Scotia. . Order 4. — Cetacea. The Cetacea or Whale Tribe, though ihr/ somewhat resemble fishes in their external fori », are true mammalia, breathing by means of lungs and suckling their young in thnsame manner wiili land quadrupeds. * The species most frequently found on the coast of Nova Scotia, are the Whale- Imne or true Whale, (Balaena J)iysticetus) ^Ixlm Grampus, (Phocaena Orca); Porpoise, (Phocae- na Communis) f the Sea Porpoise, (Delphinus Delphis). , . CLASS II. — BIRUS. ,^ iVoTE. — The birds of Nova Scotia are too num- erous to admit of an account of each species in a work of this nature. I shall thereforo merely notice the different families in whic)» they may be naturally grouped, 'and give ex- amples of each. Birds may be divided into Six Orders, viz: 1st. i^apfor^s, or birds of prey. 'ind. Tnsessores, perching birds. J Srd. Scansores, climbing birds. 4th. J^asor^A, scraping birds. 5th. Grallatores, wading birds. Oth. Natatores, swimming birds. Order 1. — llaptores, i. The Falcons, (Fa/com"rf«f). This family includes all the diurnal birds of prey, or thos«* which fly and feed by day. The j3ald Ejigic, ila< 58 NATURAL HISTORY. Fish Hawk, flen Hawk and Sparrow Hawk are examples of this family. The OwLSj (Strigidae), comprise the noctur- nal birds of prey, or those adapted for huntini? in the evening or by night. All the species found in Nova Scotia are known by the name Owl, as the common Grey Owl, White Owl, Horned Owl. &c. , i !'•' Order 2. — Insessores. 1. The Shrikes, (Laniadae), much resemble the Hawks in their habits, but are smaller and Jess [lowerful. They prey on small birds and insects. Only one specit?s, the American Shrikfe or Butcher bird, is found in Nova Scotia. 2. The Thrusfies, (J'lerulidae)^ feed on in- sects, es})ecinlly fjrubs, caterpillars and worms, and are also fond of fruit* As destroyers of in-- jurious insects thoy arc of incalculal)le service to the farmer, and the sonix f^f nuiny of them is pleasing. The common Uobin, the Cat Bird, the Wood Thrush, and the Blackbird belong to this family, S. The Warblers, (Sylviadae), are all small birds, whose food consists of insects, which the)*^ hunt with great activity among the branches of trees and bushes. They are often brightly col- oured and many of them sing agreeably; they are very useful in ridding gardens and orchards of insects. The Wrens and Titmice, the garden Yellow Birds, the BlacK Cap and a nnmbar of other species of our small birds, belong to this familv. 4. The Fly Catchers, (Muscicapidae) , like the Warblers, are small insectivorous birds; the Flycatchers however feed on winged ini»ect» ■1 r C C t OK NOVA SCOTIA. &9 in- small they es of col- are (Is of rden >9l' of this like the t>ect» ivhich they liike in the nir. Among the most common species found in Nova Scotia, are the Kuig Bird, Hed^t irtj and Wood Pewee. -"'5. The Chatterers, (.flmpelidae) . These are larjj^er hirds than the Warlilers, iwui feed on fruits and insects. Only one species is fourui in Nova Scotia, the Cherry-bird, Cedar-bird or AVax-win^. It is well known as a devouror of cherries and of the blossoms of fruit trees. 6. Finches, (Fn7iq;illidae), are readily known by their short and conical bill; they subsi?!t chiefly nn grain and seeds; and are nutncrous and com- mon in every country. Amon;; the numerous species found in Nova Scotia, are the Song Spar- row, Savannah Finch, Snow Bird, lied Linnet and Pine Grosbeak. u 7. The Crossbills, (7.orMc?rte). The species of this family found in Novn Scotia, are the American and White-winged Crossbills, which are both small birds, and much resemble each other in appearance. They are remarkable for the singular structure of their bills, whose curv- ed mandibles cross each other at their points. This form of bill enables these birds [to extract the seeds of spruce and pine cones on which they feed. • c; r '^ 8. The Crows, (Corvidae), are active, shy and wary birds, and are nearly omnivorous, feed- ing on nearly all kinds of edible substances* The Raven, Crow, Blue Jay and Canada Jay be- long to this family. They are all highly useful as destroyers of carrion and of noxious insects. 6. The CREEPERS,(C . 4. The Phalaropes, {Phalarovidae)^ some- what reserrd)le in their habits the ISandpiperS) but have their toes fringed with a membrane which enables them to swim. The Hyperborean or brown Phalaroj)e is found in Nova Scotia. 4. The Plovers, Charadriadae)y are less aquatic in their habits than most other families of this order, and often frequent fields and pas* tures, where their food consists principally of worms. The Golden Plover, Ring Plover, and Black-bellied Plover, are among the species oc- curring in Nova Scotia. ,», Order 6 — Natatores. ' The Ducks and 'Geese, (^Anatidae). Of this well-known family numerous species frequent the shores and lakes of Nova Scotia, especially in spring and autumn. Among these are the Wild or Canada Goose, the Brent, the Black duck, Ei- der duck. Wood duck, Pintail, Teal, Buffel head- ed duck. Harlequin duck, &lc. 2. The Divers, {Colymbidae)^ in form resem- ble the Ducksjbut have a straight and strong bill, adapted to capturing fish, and are altogether ma- rine in their habits. The great northern Diver or Loon is the most generally known species. 3. The At'KS, (Alcidae). These are marine diving birds, which use their wings as well as their feet for propelling them through the water, and feed exclusively on fish. To this family be- k o| tl nr NOVA SCOTIA. ^^^ lonii; the hi rd!4 named GuillernotP, Auks, Piitrins, and Sea Doves. 4. The Gulls, (fMridnc)y nro lon«^ Avlrifrfd birds, flyinjjto great distance-?, and feeding on all kinds of' garbage and on small fish. The Terns or sea Swallows, the various species ot* Gull, and the Petrel, belonjr to this family. 5. The Gannets, (Pelirnnidac). Thcst; are lar<^e, voracious and wandering birds, preying on fish and spending the greater part of their lives on the sea. The (jJanncts and Cormorunis are the principal species. 6. The Grebes, (Podicepidae), uvf swininiing birds of small size, whose loes are tmt united by a membrane, but merely broadly fringed by i»; they are expert divers and feed o!i snndl frV; insects, seeds, Sic. Of this fannly, ilie red-necU- ed Grebe and the D"bchick or Water-witch are found in Nova Scotia. m- CLASS III. — REPTILES. ' ^ ' • * The Reptiles of Nova Scotia — are not nume- rous, and neither of large size nor injurious to man. The principal are, a fresh water Tor- toise (JEwt/s), found in the rivers and streams, n few species of Snakes and some small Lizards. 'J'here are also a few species of frogs, toads, and newts, which though usually included in a separate class (the Amphibia), may be mentioned here. CLASS IV. — FISHES. The animals of this class — are numerous and very important to man, it will therefore be pro- per to notice particularly the principal species found in the waters of Nova Scotia* , .... ; 64 NATirUAL HISTORT Division 1st. — Fishes having a bony skeleton. 1. The JiASs{l\ahrax Lineatus), is a lar^e ami beautiful species of perch, easily distinguished hy the broH(l stripes of white and brown extending along its whole length. It is found in many har- bours and estuaries, especially those of the Bay of FuFKly. ft is a bold and active fish, and rea- dily takes a bait. Its flesh is excellent, and it sometimes attains the weight of 40 or 50 pounds^ though usually much smaller, 2. The Mackarel, {Scom')er Scom-jrus)^ is found on all parts of the coast of Nova Scotia, and sometimes appears, at particular points, in immense shoals, whose ''appearance is not how- ♦}ver very regular or certain, as this fish is very irregular iu its migrations. Large quantities are annually taken by the fishermen of Nova Scotia. It is probable that other species of mack- nrel occur on the shores of the Province. 3. The Blue P ^ iich {Labrus coricus). This little fish, often called simply the Perch, is found in great abundance in all the harbors and estuar- ies, usually in the neighbourhood of rocks and wharves. It is often caught by boys, but is al- most valueless for food- 4. The ScuLPiN (Cottus), is very common in harbors and estuaries, where its voracity and hi- deous appearance are sources of great annoyance to ju' enile anglers. It is not used for food. 5. The Sucker (Catastomus) is a fresh-water fish, distinguished by the peculiar form of its mouth, whose lips pn>jeci beyond the jaws, form- ing a semi-cartilaginous ring, by which the ani- mal fasteifs itself lo rocks and stones, a habit which has given origin to its common name. It OF NOVA SCOT U. e$ har- Bay ifl useless to man. There are more than one species. 6. The Salmon {Salmo Salar) is found in most of the large rivers of Nova Scotia, and is also taken on the coast in spring* before it has entered the rivers, which it does annually, for the purpose of depositing its spawn, returning to the sea after this purpose is accomplished. The salmon is usually taken in nets or speared, and in Nova Scotia considerable quantities are preserved by {lickling and smoking. 7. The TRouTs{Salmo Fontinalis &c). At least two species are common; the salmon trout, which inhabits harbours ami estuaries, and ascends riv- ers and brooks for the purpose of spawning; and the common trout, found in all the rivers, brooks and lakes, and varying very much in size and co- lour, according to the nature of its food. 8. The Smelt, (^Osmerus Eperlanus). This pretty little fish abounds in all the inlets of the coast, and is especially plentiful in spring,autumn, and winter. In harbours which are frozen at the latter season, great numbers are caught through the ice. The flavour of the Smelt is very deli- cate, and in the seasons when it is abundant, it is much used. 9. The Herring, (Clupea Elongata), This highly useful fish is found abundantly in spring and autumn, on the coast of Nova Scotia. They are taken in seines and neis; and their capture and curing forms a very important branch of in- dustry. The Herring, like most other migratory fishes, prefers shallow water for the deposition of its spawn; and this is the reason of its appear- ance in large shoals on the coasts at particular seasons; at other periods of the year, it wanders more widelv over the ocean. tM^ KATURAL HISTORY lit M 10. The Alewipb or Gaspereaux, {Clupea Vernalis), This species is nearly as abunclant as the common Herring, which it much resem- bles. ]ii spring it ascends rivers and streams to their very sources, for the purpose of depositing its spawn, and is then easily caught in great quantities. It is not so much esteemed as the iJerring. - • . ■ • ; *- 11. The Shad, {Alosa), is nearly allied to the llorniig, but is much larger. It is found most ribuiidantly in the Bav of Fundv and its tribu- iaries, appearing to prefer muddy bottoms and turbid water. It is taken in nets, and in weirs or eared by torchlight, or through holes cut in the ice. Division ^nd. — Fishes having a cartilaginous skeleton. 1. The Sharks, (Squalides), Several species of Shark are occasionally seen on the coast of Nova Scotia, though none are abundant, except the Dog Fish, a small species very destructive to Cod, and often injurious to the nets of fishermen. Anions^ the species occasionally seen on the At- lantic roust, are the White Shark (Carchnrias Vulgaris). The Blue Shark, (C arch arias Glau- cws) and the Basking Shark, (Selache Maxr^rms), The two first are dangerous to bathers, but are very rare, and may be considered as stragglers from warmer climates. * . €8 KATVRiL HI8T0RT 2. The Skate or Ray ^ (Raia Baits) is com- mon on the coast of Nova Scotia, land is often taken by fishermen, but is not much esteemed. 8. The Sturgeon, (Jlccipenser). A largo species of Sturgeon is found in the Bay of Fundy, preferring, like most fishes of this genus, soft and muddy bottom . In souie countries the Sturgeon is much esteemed for food, but in Nova Scotia it is very little used. THE ARTICULATED ANIMALS— Constituting the second great division of the ani- mal kingdom, are named articulated on account of their being covered by a jointed case or crust, serving the purposes of a covering to protect the body, and of a skeleton to support the muscles. This divison includes — the Worms, as the Earth-worm, Leech, &c.; the Crustacea, as the Crab, Lobster, &.C. ', the Spiders; the Centipedes; and the Insects. Animals of all these classes are found in Nova Scotia and its waters; but the only one to which we need here attend particu- larly, is the last. Insects are distinguished from other articulat- ed animals — by their complex organization, their adaptation for breathing in air, the smaller num- ber of their legs and segments, and by their metamorphosis, wbich consists in a change from the wormlike form in which they at first appear, and which is called the larva state, to that of the perfect insect. They are divided into Or- ders. Order I. Coleoptera. ' Includes those insects which have the upper pair of wings forming a strong horny case for the lower pair^ which are thm and membranous. 1 d| OF rOVA SCOTIA. GO They are usually named Beetles, and the great Water Beetle, (Dytiscus) is the lar^^est of the order found in Nova Scotia. The Fire Filed, (Elater); the Turnip Fly, {Jlllica)\ and the Lady Birds, (Coccinella) ^ which are useful in destroying the li<*e that infest trees; belong to ihis Order. Orders. — Orthoptera, Or straig*ht-winged insects, are distinguished l>y possessing two pairs of wings, and jaws fitted for mastication. The Crickets, and the Grass- hoppers of which there are several species, nil very injurious to vegetation, belong to this Order. Order 3. — Neuroptera. Consists of insects which have both pairs of wings membranous and delicately vemcd or net- led, as the name of the order signifying nerve- winged, intimates. The Dragon Flies, (Libellula) and the short-lived Day Flies, (Ephemera), are the principal genera of this order found in Nova Scotia. Order 4. — Ihjmenoptera, Have four membranous wings, less netted than those of the Neuroptera, and united lo each other at their margins, they have also jaw.s adapted rather for suction than mastication. The Wasps {Vespidae); the Bees, {Jlpis); the Hum- ble Bees, (^Bombus); and ihe Ichneumons which deposit their eggs on the bodies of caterpillars on which their larvae feed, and thus greatly re- duce the numbers of these noxious creatures, be- long to this Order. Order b.-^Homoptera. Includes a number of (tuiious insectjj which k' *- 7(1 KAtURAL MI^TORT subsist by sucking the juices of plants. In Novn Scotia, the most common members of this Ordei' Jirc the Cicachie or Singing Locusts; and the Plant Lice, (^Jlphidae) , which often swarm on tlje leaves of trees and vegetables, and by suck- ing their sap, greatly weaken and injure them< Order Qt-^Heteroptera, The insects of this Order, like those of the last, subsist by suction; but differ from them in the structure of their upper pair of wings, which are horny and coloured at the base, and membranous at the point. This Order includes the Bug, {Cirmex)i and the Frog-spittle insects, (Ccrca- pidae) which in their young state Inhabit the frothy substance often seen on the stalks of grasses and other planter, and which in all their stages^ are very injurious to vegetation. Order 7, — Lepidoptera. . . 1; v Have their wings covered with minute scales often brightly colouied. All the insects of this Order are known by the names of Butterflies, Moths and Millers. In their mature state they are beautiful and harmless insects; but in the larva state they are the greatest pests of farmers and gardeners. AH the varieties of Caterpillars, and most of the Grubs, Cut-worms, Apple-worms and Pea-worms, are larvae of Moths and Butter- flies, n / ,s ,1 J Order 8. — Diptera, , ,,.,,,} These have only two wings, which are mem- branous. This Order includes the Mosquitoes and Gnats, {Culccidae ; the Crane Flies or Har- ry-long-legs, (TipuUdae); the Horse Flies, (Tabanidae); the Bot Flies, (Oestridae); the Flejiji and House Flies, (^Musciaac) i the Wheat ^'Jlw^M -tiLlt^ii tit KOVl iCOTfi. n Fly Improperly called '' Weevil,'* and the Hea- sian Fly, {Cecidomyia) The remaining Orders of Insects — include the various species of Fleas and f^ice, and the Phry- {^anidae, whose larvae, named caddice worm?, in- hahit brooks and ponds, where they construct little cases of fragments of wood, sand, &,c., which they carry about with them, THE MOLLUSCOUS ANIMALS— Form the third division of animals, distinguish- ed by the absence of bony skeleton and external articulated case. The want of these is sup[)rred by a shell or by a tough skin or mantle. This division includes — the Squids or Cuttle- fish, the marine and fresh water shell-fish, the land snails and slugs, and several other groups of animals found, in Nova Scotia or the neigh- bouring seas. The only useful species — are some of the Shell- fish, as, the Oyster, (Ostrea Edulis); the Mussel, {Mytilus Edulis); the Sand Clam,(JWi/a Arena- rid); the Razor Fish, (Solen Ensis); the Qua- hog, (Venus Mercenaria,) ; the Scallop, {Pecten Magcllanicus), . , 'J 16 Lt rJ:. THE RADLVTED ANIMALS— Are distinguished by the arrangement of the members of their bodies, which generally diverge on all sides from a central point. These ani- mals are all aquatic, and many species occur in the waters of Nova Scotia. The Sea-Urchins, Star Fishes and Jelly Fishes arc the most com- mon tribes. I -.^itii^iLmbBSSif-B 7« KATUA4L tllSTORY I \ .— B 0 T ANY. THE NATURAL HISTORY OF PLANTS. ■'i » ji. Note. — The wild plants of Nova Scotia bclnjj too numerous to admit of even a detailed catalogue, in a work of this description, those Orders only are noticed which contain useful timber trees, fruits, &,c» The Order Grossulaceae — includes the Wild tiooseberry, {Ribes Oxyacanthoides)^ a small but agreeable fruit; and two species of Wild Currants, one at least of which deserves cultiva- tion. The Order .'"cerinfle^contains the White Sugar Maple, (Acer Saccharinum) ; the Black Sugar Maple, {A, Nigrum); the White or Soft Maple, (A, Dasycarpum) ; the Red Maple (A, liubrum); the Moose Wood or Striped Maple, {A, Striatum). The first two species are large and beautiful trees, affording valuable timber and rich saccharine sap, which on evaporation yields maple sugar. The third and fourth species are also large trees, but their wood is less valua- ble. • ^ The Order i?o5acea^— Includes the Wild Rose and Sweet Br'mv, (Rosa Parvijiora and Rubigino- sa); the Wild Raspberry, Blackberry and Dew- berry, (Rubus StrigosuSi fyc); the Wild Straw- berry (Fragaria Virginiana); and other less im- portant flowering and fruit bearing plants. The Order Pomaceae — includes the Medlar or Wild Pear, (Aronia Ovalis), a tree which is worthy of cultivation, as its fruit, though small, is agreeable and abundant; the Rowan or Moun- lain Ash, (Pyrus Microcarpa) ; and the Wild Hawthorn, (Crataegtis) , I 'f "'" '"r"?J]^~ .t^M.-tiifi4^i^a^iii^u or yofk 8C0TIA. TS or is ill, in- [ild The Onler Amygdalae — contains the WIM Cherry find Choke Cherry, (Cerasus Pennsylva^ nica ^ Serotina); both fruits oflittle value. The Order Anacardiaceae — includes the Sum- ach, (Rhus Glabra), a pretty ornamental treej and the Poison Vine (Rhm Toxicodendron), The Order Cupuliferae — contains the White and Red Beech, (Fagus Sylvattca ^ Ferrugi- nea); the White and Black Oak, (Qwercwa); and the Hazel (Corylus Americana), The four first species are large and valuable trees. The Order Betulacae — cor.tains the Vellow Birch, Black Birch, White Canoe Birch, and Poplar-leaved Birch, (^Betula Excelsa, Lenta, Papyracea 8f Populifolia) ; and the Alders, (Al- nus Serrulata, ^c.) The two fir»t species of Birch are valuable timber trees, and the Canoe Birch produces the bark used by the Indians for canoes, boxes, &c. The Order Ulmaceae — Includes the Elm, (L7Z- miis Americana) , one of the most beautiful trees found in the Province, and very common on the river intervales. The Order Salicaceae—coninina the WiUows, (Salix), of which several small species are na- tive, and sonre more ornamental species have been introduced; and the Poplars, of which the principal species are the Aspen(Popw/M5 Tremu- loides\, the Tree Vo\}\ary (P. Granaidentata), and the White leaved Poplar, (P. Candicans.) The Order O/eaccae— contains the White Ash, (Fraxinus Acuminata) ,0, very useful timber tree j and the Black or swamp Abh,(F. Sambucifolia), whose wood is less useful, but in consequence of the facility with which it can be split into 8trips> IS used by the Indians in basket making. 71 »ATVRAL UISTORT The Onler Conifcrae — incUides all the ever- ffreeii or softwoo;.-j.,.^. j.iftU^ ,si ?ti kvj.tl aril yfl hitif.u m i I If ^?SBHWPf^^ ( »»• ' ■■ ft • 1 I ' ll i:V ' M I, APPfijVDJX. ' ' M » f i-HIVCPAL HOADS AND mSTAN CEs! '^OVA 8C0TJA PROPER . ' ' ^ anrl Chester "" ^^argarei's Bay -Lunenburg to riv«,.r.' i * • • Liverpool to Shelbirne vL p "7^ ''"?^' Liverpool to Lnnrencetown .f"?'"" «■ '•s, Via BrookfieM iVnr?h^ i Atm,,m. tau,t River, 63 rniles '"''''' "'"^ ^ic- 72 86 40 '^otal Halifax to Farmouth, 58 2. Halifax lo Dio-hy anA \r . iJ'g^to Yarmouth' v'ia W„ " .• CJare, . . ' '^"' *^eymouth and '^«'al Halifax .0 iTarmouth . 206 Ah 23 6a 20 «7 215 76 APPKVDIX. Mile 8 3. Halifax to Cumberland — Halifax to Truro, . . . . '65 Truro to Amherst, via Ons(o\v, London- derry atid River Philip, . . .60 IVuro to Tdtnmngouche, 27 mile8. Truro . , to Parslmro', via <'nslow, LonHonderry, Kconomy & Five Ishiiic^, 5G miles. Amherst to Fort Cumberland in N. liruns- wick, 7 miles. Amherst to Pnrrshoro', 34 miles. Amherst to Wallace, 46 miles. ^-— Total Halifax to Andiurst, . . . . 125 4. Halifax to Plclou^ Sidney 6f Guysborough — Halifax to Truro, 65; 'Pruro to Pictou, 40; 105 Pictou to Anti|[^onish, via New Glasgow and MerifTomish 53 Pirtou to Wallace, via Riv^r John and 'i Tatamagouche, 42mdos. Pictou to Am- herst, via Wallace, 83 miles. Pictou to Charlotletown,P.E.I., by water, 52 miles Antigonish to Plaster Cove, C. B., via Pomket, Tracadie and Canseau Ferry, 32 miles, Antigonish to Sherbrooke, via Lochaber, 35 miles». Antigonish to Guysborough, . . .54 Total Halifax to Canseau Ferry, 189 miles; to Guysborough, . . . 191 5. Halifax to Guysborough, via Musquodo- boit and Glenelg, about 134 miles. CAPE BRETON. , Plaster Cove to Port Hood, . . . . 30 Port Hood to Margarie, via Mabou River, 41 Plaster Cove to Arichat, . . . .28 Plaster Cove to Sydney, via St. Peters, . 78 Sydney to Margarie, via Sydney Mines^ Bouhtrdarie Island and Bedeque, . . 65 WA e B 65 1 60 Ui abi o r pii Ai'itntct of Meteorological Register kept at (he A (r.atitude 45^ 34' 30^' North; Longitude ( ' Bnrornetnr 1 20 feet above the sea. Thermoin- fiter 6 feet from ground. «i i( (I *< It «« <( • I «< It «i Pluviorne- Icr on ground. «f »• II II <« II i« i( ii II II «i