Our HMCS Haida

Dayna, North End Resident and Reader

“I look forward to the always-prompt delivery of the next edition to my mailbox, and to receiving the email alerting me to its availability! I so appreciate that there remains a local community paper at a time when so many others have ceased publication. It’s been a great introduction to the North End!”

Kristina Santone

“Being a part of the North End Breezes board for the past two years has been a privilege. The team does amazing work within the community and serves as a resource hub for all. They are committed, and most importantly, passionate about preserving the North End’s legacy, while also continuing to foster its growth. Whether you are new to the area, or a longtime resident, I encourage you to volunteer with the Breezes in some capacity if you’re able. This team is small but mighty and they are always looking for more support. I’m grateful for the relationships and community I’ve been able to build while serving on the board.

I’ll be joining Welcome Inn as the Executive Director and look forward to taking on a new role in the North End Community while staying connected to The Breezes. “

The last survivor of the twenty seven Tribal class destroyers of the Royal Canadian Navy was moved into dry dock in September. It was built in England in 1943, and sank nine German ships in four months, during WWII. Thirteen of these destroyers were lost during the War. Her last mission in WWII was the liberation of Norway, in 1945. A brave history for a wonderful ship!

We are glad she was moved into dry-dock at Heddle Marine Service Inc for rehabilitation on September 16th, which is part of the effort to protect our historical sites, and assist us in remembering those who served and those who were lost at sea. As she undergoes repairs to her hull, the plan is to stop moisture seepage and rusting with the idea of preserving the HMCS Haida for future generations. Preserving the HMCS Haida gives us and our children a chance to learn and to understand the rich heritage of our country, when we joined with our countries around the world, fighting to preserve freedom.

Being on board her, one can get a feeling for what it might have been like for our young men to face the dangers of war and serve shoulder to shoulder with one another in some of the most dramatic water battles Canada has ever faced.

The HMCS Haida, Canada’s most famous warship, weighs 2,745 tons and is 115 metres long. Before being decommissioned in 1963 it had 230 men and 18 officers serving on it. During the WWII Canada’s Navy was the third largest in the world!

She participated in the Korean War, a NATO tour and served Canada during the Cold War as well. She was retired in 1963 when businessmen formed Haida Inc. and bought her as a memorial for Canada. In 1984 she was designated a National Historic Site of Canada.

The plan is for her to be refitted and returned for service back at Pier Nine in time for Victoria Day weekend in 2017. This is a great explore for the whole family right here on our own Hamilton waterfront. Don’t miss this museum ship when it is shipshape and open for visitors this summer!