A large group of nurses from the Nova Scotia Nursing History Society attended the massive public ceremonies in Halifax to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Halifax Explosion. The Halifax Explosion, on December 6, 1917, resulted when a Norwegian vessel collided with a French cargo ship laden with high explosives. The resulting fire ignited the cargo, causing a devastating explosion that killed at least 2,000 people from the blast, flying and fallen debris, onshore fires, and collapsed buildings, and an estimated 9,000 others were injured. It was the world’s largest artificial explosion before advent of nuclear weapons in World War 2.
Nina Rumen celebrated her 90th birthday on Saturday October 14, 2017. Her actual birthday was October 12th. Her sisters Vera and Olga hosted the party at the South Granville Park Lodge, Nina’s current home. Family and friends gathered to celebrate Nina’s incredible life and career. Three members of the BCHNS attended, Don Ransom, Glennis Zilm and Sheila Zerr. Many stories were shared and Nina enjoyed the fun, presents and reminders of times past. Purple is Nina’s favorite color. The birthday cupcakes, bearing purple icing, along with the buffet of delicious food were enjoyed by all. A bouquet of flowers was presented to Nina on behalf of the BCHNS.
Affiliate Member of BCHNS,Linda Quiney, presented a copy of her book, entitled “THIS SMALL ARMY OF WOMEN” to archive committee members Nan Martin (Chair) and Ethel Warbinek, long time member of the Archive committee. BCHNS helped sponsor the book & is happy to accept it for our Archives. Linda has documented how 2000 Canadian & Newfoundland women known as VADS served in the First World War. Most performed their war work across Canada & Newfoundland in Military Convalescent Hospitals, but 500 were posted over seas as “active service” VADS.