A significant restoration project is underway for the Hector, a square-rigged sailing ship that played a critical role in Scottish immigration to Nova Scotia over 250 years ago. Following a public fundraising campaign initiated in 2019, the rebuilt vessel is set for a ceremonial side-launch into the waters of Pictou, Nova Scotia. Master shipbuilder Vern Shea, who oversaw the original construction of the Hector replica two decades ago, describes the upcoming launch as an exhilarating event. This moment marks not only a rebirth for the vessel but also a celebration of the historical significance it holds in Scottish-Canadian heritage.
Originally launched in 2000, the Hector replica wasn’t seaworthy and fell into disrepair due to lack of maintenance. The Ship Hector Society purchased the vessel from the town of Pictou in 2010 for a nominal fee, setting in motion a $4 million restoration effort aimed at transforming the ship into a functional sailing vessel. Shea, who has experience in naval craftsmanship, emphasized the importance of this rebuild and the aspiration of making the Hector sail once more. The restoration is seen as a fulfilling achievement for all involved, including both the society and Shea himself.
The rebuild was not a simple task; it required the complete removal and replacement of decayed hull planking and the application of protective fiberglass to safeguard against further damage. The new construction, utilizing Douglas fir for the hull and pine for the seams, highlights traditional shipbuilding methods while ensuring the Hector’s durability. Inside the ship, the cramped compartments have been designed to reflect those used in 1773, a poignant reminder of the hardships faced by the 189 Scottish immigrants who crossed the Atlantic, enduring a brutal eleven-week journey during which they experienced significant loss.
Historically, the Hector’s voyage is notable as a catalyst for Scottish immigration, marking the inception of a cultural shift in Nova Scotia that would influence the wider development of Canada. The Hector Society highlights the lasting contributions of the Scottish settlers, whose legacies permeate various aspects of Canadian society, from culture to industry. This historical narrative resonates through the ongoing efforts to reconstruct both the vessel and the stories it embodies, emphasizing the intertwined fates of the Scots and the local Mi’kmaq populations who assisted them upon their arrival.
Once launched, the next phase of the Hector’s restoration will entail the installation of electric motors, sails, and masts, with expectations for its first harbor tours by 2027. With over $2 million of the funding secured, an additional $1.8 million is still needed to complete the project. The society’s chair, Wes Surett, expresses optimism that the restored Hector will generate revenue through tourism, assisting in the long-term viability of the site.
Alongside the Hector’s restoration, the interpretive center, recently revamped with funding from provincial and federal governments, aims to narrate the intertwined histories of the Scots and Mi’kmaq. Employing modern interactive displays and visual aids, the center enhances understanding and appreciation of local history. Future expansions include a sailing program and a wooden shipbuilding school, yet the primary vision remains: a sailing Hector capable of offering experiences that connect people to the maritime heritage of Nova Scotia, ensuring that the ship and its stories remain alive for generations to come.
