Residents in Amherst, Nova Scotia, have the opportunity to explore the community’s history during a free guided walking tour on May 1, 2026. The event, which is part of the global Jane’s Walk movement, will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The tour will begin at the First Baptist Church, located at 90 Victoria Street East. The church, a prominent red sandstone building constructed in 1895, serves as the starting point for a route that travels along Victoria Street. Throughout the walk, participants will visit various locations to hear stories about the people and history that shaped the area. To help bring the past to life, volunteer actors dressed in historical costumes are expected to appear at different stops along the way.
The local event is organized by the Culture, History and Heritage Group of Amherst in partnership with the Town of Amherst, the Cumberland County Genealogical Society, the Cumberland County Museum and Archives, and the Amherst Area Heritage Trust. No registration is required for those who wish to attend.
The Jane’s Walk movement was inspired by Jane Jacobs, an urbanist and activist whose work focused on the importance of community-centered neighborhoods. The Amherst route highlights the town’s architectural heritage, including the sandstone and brick buildings from the 19th century that reflect the town’s period of industrial growth. Historically, the area is known for its manufacturing output in the early 1900s and as the birthplace of four of Canada’s Fathers of Confederation.
Anyone seeking more information regarding the walk may contact Mallory Klooster at Town Hall by calling 902-694-0857 or by email at [email protected].
