Events

Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM

Join us for a Lunch & Learn presentation by amateur genealogist and history buff Stephen Newson, who will share his experiences using various genealogy tools and DNA to unlock family mysteries.

As part of Steve’s journey to locate the birth families of his half-siblings, he will explain his use of DNA matches and genealogy matches, addressing some of the practical and ethical questions surrounding the use of DNA.

In the words of “Finding Your Roots” documentary TV series host Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr., “DNA doesn’t lie.”

Bring your lunch, refreshments provided.

Admission by donation or free to CHS members.

Wednesday, March 04, 2026, 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM

The story of the coming of the railway in 1858 is central to the history of Truro and Colchester County. This presentation, by CHS member Elinor Maher, will provide detailed background on the efforts to build a railway in Nova Scotia and the transformation that occurred as a result.

A building boom, new manufacturing businesses and an increase in population were immediate. Truro, because of its geographical location and excellent railway facilities, became the Hub of Nova Scotia.

Admission by donation. Free to CHS members.

Wednesday, March 18, 2026,

With the arrival of the railway, facilities had to be built to serve the public, maintain the equipment, and handle commerce. The railway had a huge impact on Truro. All freight and passenger traffic passed through, and this impacted employment in the town and the economy.

The demand for more trackage and infrastructure to service both passenger and freight intensified. Locomotives and trains grew larger as did the need for more facilities. In his presentation, CHS member Andrew Blackburn will explore the infrastructure that once made Truro a railway town.

Admission by donation. Free to CHS members.