Harry Piers

Harry Piers, born on February 12, 1870, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, was a prominent Canadian historian and archivist whose influence extended far beyond his lifetime. He became the second curator of the Nova Scotia Museum in 1899, succeeding David Honeyman, and held this position with distinction until his passing in 1940. Piers also served as the librarian of the Provincial Science Library starting in 1900 and was the Deputy Keeper of Public Records of Nova Scotia from 1899 until the establishment of the Public Archives of Nova Scotia in 1931.

Throughout his career, Piers dedicated himself to documenting the culture and history of the Mi'kmaq people, collaborating closely with Jerry Lonecloud. His extensive writings covered a diverse array of topics, from military history to the habits of the winter wren, a small bird native to Nova Scotia. His final work, "The Evolution of the Halifax Fortress 1749-1928," was published posthumously in 1947 and significantly contributed to the restoration efforts of the Halifax Citadel and York Redoubt.

Piers was not only a prolific writer but also a mentor to many authors, including the renowned history and fiction writer Thomas Raddall, whom he encouraged in his historical research. His obituary in the Halifax Chronicle Herald described him as a 'human book of knowledge,' reflecting his deep engagement with the community and his extensive contributions to the cultural landscape of Halifax and Nova Scotia.

As a one-man museum, Piers set high standards for research and documentation in museum work, collecting artifacts and specimens that spanned human and natural history. His legacy is recognized by modern historians, who regard him as a 'renaissance man' of the province's cultural history. His meticulous work ensured that much of Nova Scotia's heritage was preserved for future generations, leaving an indelible mark on the field of history and archiving.