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Un des symboies suivants apparaltra sur la derni*re imape de cheque microfiche, selon le cas: le symbule -^ eigniffe "A SUIVRE", le symbols V signifle "FIN". iVIaps, plates, charts, etc., may be filmed at different reduction ratios. Those too large to be entirely included in one exposure are filmed beginning in the upper left hand corner, left to right and top to bottom, as many frames as required. The following diagrams illustrate the method: Les cartes, planches, tableaux, etc.. peuvent dtre filmte * des taux de reduction diff*rents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour *tre reproduit en un seui clich*. 11 est film* * partir dc Tangle sup*rieur gauche, de gauche * droite, et de haut en bas, en pronant le nombre d'images n*cessaire. Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la m*thode. 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 0- THE COUNTIES OF NOVA SCOTIA, CONDITION AM) CArABILITIE?. I By JOSEPH OUTIIAM, D !■: I- U T Y I M M I G It A T I O N A (i E N T . HALIFAX, N. S.: p R I N T ;•; i) 15 Y A a \i a n t , PRINTER TO THE QUEEN'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY, 18 6 7. u CiPi ■!!>■, INTRODUCTION. In tlic prospect of our nearer connection with Canada and New Brunswick, with tlic Intercolonial Railway about to be constructed, connecting Halifax with Quebec and Montreal, and the subject of immigration becoming of yearly increasing importance in Great Britain, a particular description of the condition of each county in Nova Scotia will be acceptable to all who may be led to regard the Province as a country of value from its natural resources and capabilities, as well as from its geographical position. To obtain the requisite information I addressed a circular, Containing a list of questions, to tlie Deputy Crov/n Land Agents in each county, and to many persons of prominent position besides. From their replies chiefly I am enabled to give the following statement of each separate county, as regards the character and occupation of the people, the demand for labor, extent of unoccupied lands, and description of timber on them ; the value of property, estimated by a farm of 200 acres, with log house and barn, and forty acres cleared ; the markets depended upon for disposal of produce, with means of conveyance, and also the manufactories established. 1 addressed a separate circular to the proprietors and mana- gers of manufactories ; but many of them disregarded it and made no reply, consequently the reports are more restricted than they would othervfise have been. lu respect to cleared land, it is necessary for the information X/.CLPwi/i of European \mdmi%- to state that in the North American Colo- nies cleared land is not vmderstood to mean that such land is all arable. When the trees have been fall § n and burnt, and a u^^u^ crop of potatoes, tiiniips, or grass lias been raised, tlic land is said to have been cleared, altliougli a very small portion of it may be lit for the plough — the progress of which might be effectually interrupted in by far the greater part by stumps and stones ; but still the whole would be available for pasturage. The exact quantity of iingranted lands remaining in each county cannot be ascertained without a great deal of tedious and laborious research in the Crown Land Office. When grants were ffrst made the Province was divided into a small number of counties, and subsequently other counties have been divided off"; but a sufficient approximation has been made to the extent of such remaining Crown Lands to answer the purpose in view. The population I have taken from the census of 1861, from want of any more recent authority. 13ut it has increased, and very considerably, in many counties since then. The object of this publication is merely to serve as an appendix to the works upon Nova Scotia already in circulation. J. OUTRAM. Halifax, October, 1867. THE COUNTIES OF NO\^A SCOTIA: THEIR CONDITION AND CAPAIULITIES. HALIFAX COUNTY Is bounded on the cast by Guysborough County, on tlic west by Lunenburg, on tlio nortb by Hants, Colchester, and Pictoii Coun- ties, and on the south side by the Atlantic Ocean. The population of the county by census of 18G1 was 49,021. Tiie surface of the county is generally uneven and rocky ; and, although sterdc in some parts, there arc many tracts of good soil. Near the city of Halifax many stoney soils have been rendered pro- ductive. The chief town, Halifax, is the capital of Nova Scotia, and the principal naval and military station of the lower or maritime provinces. In the city the occupation is nearly entirely in mercantile pur- suits, with a due proportion of professional men. In the country the })eo{)le are employed in farming, lumbering (or cutting timber) and the fisheries. They are generally industrious ; and those who do not rank as prosperous make a comfortable living. AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS Are not much in demand at present — except at seeding and harvest times, when wages arc high — although there is plenty of land lying vacant which might be cheaply and advantageously cultivated. DOMESTIC SERVANTS. There is a great demand for female domestics, and almost any number fit for work would be readily engaged. MECHANICS. Blacksmiths, Carpenters, &c. are not much wanted, as in the rura^ districts the number of such is pretty nearly adjusted to the wants of the people. But there is a scarcity in the city of Cabinet- makers, Tailors and Shoemakers. k 6 CROWN LANDS, Or ungraiited lands still in the hands of the Government, amount in this county to ahoiit 411, GG2 acres ; of these a con- siderahlc proportion is suital)lc for settlement and cultivation. They are situated in various jjlaces : chiefly near Musquodoboit, between tliat district and T.'iugier Harbour, and between the head of St. Margaret's Bay and Hants County. Many families are settling down oi these lands as squatters; but if good roads were made to give access to the lands, legitimate settlement and cultiva- tion would follow. There are many thousands of acres included in old grants, and possessed by private individuals, almost derelict, with little or no clearance, dwellings, or occupancy existing on them. The prevailing descriptions of timber on unoccupied lands are chiefly hard woods. Spruce and pine suitable for building exist in small quantities. The hard woods consist chiefly of birch, but with a good deal of beech and sugar maple. The price of a farm of 200 acres (40 being cleared) with a frame or log-house and barn, is estimated at from $600 to $800. Lots of 100 acres each, partially cleared, but without buildings, near settlements or roads, can be had for $2 per acre ; and some with frame buildings, and limestone on the land, are reported as purchascable at that price. The principal market for disposal of country produce is Halifax — to which it is conveyed by cart-roads and by rail, when i^ot far dis- tant from stations. MANUFACTURES. There are in Halifax County 25 Grist Mills propelled by water, and 1 by wind ; 99 Saw Mills propelled by water and 4 by steam ? 8 Tanneries, 1 Paper Mill, 1 Woolen Factory, 3 Brick works and 1 Wood Work factory, 5 Carding and 9 Shingle Mills. In Halifax and its vicinity, 1 Lath Mill, 1 Block Factory, 4 Soap and Candle works, 1 Axe, 1 Rake, 1 Chain and 1 Fail and Chair factories ; 4 Iron Founderies, 4 Tobacco manufactories, G Carriage and Sleigh factories, 3 Cabinet and 2 Piano manufactories. 2 Nail, 2 Trunk and 1 Brush factories ; 5 Breweries, 1 Joiner and 1 Wood Moulding factories ; 2 Steam Baking and 1 Engine Factory. In reply to my circular of general enquiry 1 have answers from the following parties. 1 leigh Messrs. Hogo, Armstrong & Co. — Proprietors of the Virginia T()l)acco Factory, Dartmoutli — manufacture all descriptions of Smoiiing and Chewing Tobacco, and all varities of Cigars. Thoy employ about 200 hands, and are preparing to increase the number. The greater part of their manufacture is sold in Nova Scotia ; but they purpose extending their sales to other countries — finding that they can successfully compete with the manufacturers in the United States. Tiiey use the most approved hydraulic machinery in their works. Messrs. J. B. Campbell 3 Wost Indies with Fish, Deals, Ac, and seldom return direct, ao they ol)tain freights for all parts of ihe world — the outward cargoes often remunerating tlic shippers handsomely. The trade witli the United States has greatly fallen off since the repeal of the Reciprocity Treaty. In the country the people are engaged in farming, lishnig, and lumbering (or cutting timber) and are industrious and thriving. #. AGRI 'CULTURAL LABOURERS Obtain fair wages when competent, but the demand for steady work cannot be relied upon. At certain seasons when labor is wanted the wage is $1 per day with two meals. MECHANICS. The county is well supplied for present requirements with mechanics of every description. ; i » CROWN LANDS. About 105,880 acres remain ungranted in the hands of the government ; but none suitable for settlement, with the exception of a considerable quantity of wild meadow land. The Indians have large reserves in this county, which are laying w^aste and un- cultivated. If by any amendment of the laws they could be sold, it would be of great advantage lo all in the aistrict. There is a considerable quantity of good land, conveyed by old grants, but uno^'^upied, laying in nearly a direct line between Shelburne (in the next county), and Bridgetown, in Annapolis County. A road through tliis district lias been opened nearly two- thirds of the way, which, if continued and made serviceable, would open up a larce tract suitable for settlement. The timber on unoccupied lands consists principally of Oak, Birch, Beech, and other hard woods ; with a good proportion of White Pine, Spruce, and Hemlock. The price of a farm of 200 acres (40 cleared) with log-house and barn, is estimated at about i|600. But few are disposed to sell all their land, unless at a good price, and then clear new lands for themselves. Many would willingly sell a part or divide their U H i 11 lands ; for fannors have geuorally too much land — mucli more than tliey are able to cultivate. MANUFACTURES. In this county there are 7 Grist Mills and 52 Saw Mills propelled by water, and '2 Saw Mills by steam ; 1 Carding, 2 Shingle, 1 Lath, and 1 Bark Mill, all l)y water })Ower. 1 Axe factory, and 1 Saw and Planing Mill, with Grist Mill attached, propelled by both steam and water. The proprietor of this mill (called the Eureka Mill), J. Barss, Esq., states tliat he employs 25 hands on an average ; and that his markets are the West India's, United States, and Halifax. Messrs. Bill & Skerry, j)roprietors of the Axe factory, state tliat tlicy manufacture Broad and Narrow Axes, Adzej, Hatchets, Mortice Chisels and Slices ; that tlicy employ about 7 men, and that tlieir markets iiave been in the counties of Queens, Lunenburg, Halifax, Colchester, Hants, and Picto'.i. Messrs. Cowie &, Son, of Liverpool, write tliat they are engaged in the manufacture of Sole, Upper, and Harness Leather, Saddlery, Trunks, &c., and Deals, Planks, Ac. ; that they employ in tliose various branches about forty hands, with occasionally a number of lal)orers. That their market for Leather and Saddlery is princi- pally local, and for Lumber principally the West Lidies and South America, Also, that they use both water and steam power in their establishment. SIIELBURNE COUNTY Is bounded on the west by the county of Yarmouth ; on the north cast by Queen's County ; and on the south by the Atlantic. The population by census of 1861, was 10,608. The surface of the county is low and uneven on the coast ; in the interior the lands are higher. The soil is generally rocky, but there are patcLos of good land on the coast, and in the interior tracts of fertile soil. Shclburnc is the county town. The people arc thriving and in- dustrious, and the county has improved rapidly during the last seven years. On the sea board districts the people are engaged in ^ 12 the fisheries and farming ; in the towns and villages chiefly as ship- carponters, with a few joiners, smiths, shoemakers, tailors, &c. In the country the employments are lumbering and small farming. AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS, There is very little demand for, but a few might find steady em- ployment. DOMESTIC SERVANTS Are fully supplied from the country. MECHANICS, There are plenty of for present wants. CROWN LANDS. About 172,031 acres still remain ungranted, but a small propor- tion only is suitable for settlement, the greater part being sterile and rocky. There are several thousands of acrcL owned under old grants and unsettled ; the most of which is reported as of poor quality, and unsuitable for cultivation. The timber on unoccupied lands consists of Oak, Pine, Spruce, and Hemlock ; the most of young growth. There are no farms in the county for sale. The value of any may be estimated by prices in the adjacent counties. The markets depended upon for disposal of produce are the West Indies, United States, and Halifax. Conveyances all by water. MANUFACTURES. In this county there are only 26 Saw Mills, 3 Grist Mills, 2 Carding, and 2 Shingle Mills ; all by water power ; a Block factory and a Tannery. Ill ill YARMOUTH COUNTY Is bounded on the north by the county of Digby ; on the west and south by the Atlantic, and on the south east by the county of Shelburne. * i IS sliip- c. In »g- 13 Population l)y census of 1861, 15,446. The soil of tho county is generally but agreeably diversified by numerous lakes, streams, and inlets ; and mucli of it is susceptible of cultivation. Yarmoutli is tlie county town. Tbo [)Cople are enterprising and industrious. About one-b-iif follow farming, about ono-fourtb are fisbormen and lumberers, and tbe remainder mercbants, store- keepers, and professional men. In tbe Argyle district all are sea- going ])Cople, small farmers, and lumberers. Tbe town of Yar- moutli owns a large amount of sbipping, and is increasing botb in pojMilation and wealtli. AGKICULTURAL LABOURERS. Tbero is no want of at present. Tbe farms being only cultivated to a small extent, and entirely by tbe fanners and tlieir families. DOMESTIC SERVANTS Are sufficiently numerous for requirements. MECHANICS. Tbere are plenty of to meet the demand. CROWN LANDS. About 211,414 acres remain ungrantcd, the most being of in- ferior quality ; tbe best and most suitable baving been already granted. Tbere are from 10 to 12,000 acres owned under old grants but uncultivated ; much of which is v^ell wooded. Tbe timber on unoccupied lands consists chiefly of hard woods, Beech and Birch, witli a minor proportion of Spruce and Pine. The price of a farm of 200 acres, partially cleared, with a house and barn, is estimated at from f600 to SJIOOO. according to locality and quality of soil. Tbe markets principally depended upon for disposal of produce are the West Indies, United States, and Halifax. To tbe latter as- well as the former the conveyance is entirely by water. MANUFACTURES. In this county there are 3 Grist Mills, 36 Saw Mills, and 8 Shingle Mills, all by water power ; 4 Bark Mills, 2 Block factories, T li I 14 1 Joiner's factory, 1 Pai], 2 Carriage, and 7 Shoe factories ; 1 Chain ctory, 3 Planing, Sash and Doors factories, and 5 Tanneries. Messrs. Kinney, Haley & Co., of Yarmouth, state that they manufacture Sashes, Doors, Blinds, Hand-rails, Mouldings, Brackets, and all materials used in building houses ; that tlioy employ about twenty men, and find a sufficient demand for their manufactures in Yarmouth town and county, and the neighbouring couiitics ; that they work by steam power, and have in connection a Corn Mill in constant work. DIGBY COUNTY Is Ijoundcd on the north west by the Bay of Fundy ; on the west by the Atlantic ; on the south by the county of Yarmouth ; and on ^the cast by the county of Annapolis and Annapolis Basin. Population by census of 1861, 14,751. The soil of the county is of various qualities. In some parts it is stony and hilly, but generally is of good quality, and in some places uimsually fertile. The population is generally industrious, and making fair pro gress. Their pursuits are chiefly farming, ship building, lumber ing, and the firiiieries. Agriculture is the principal occupation, but ship-building is carried Oi. to a considerable extent. The southern portion of the county is inhabited by the descendants of the old French Colonists or Acadians. !f.^: AGBICUTURAL LABOURERS. There are not many engaged by the year ; but in seed and har- vest times they are much in demand. The usual wages $1 per day, with board. DOMESTIC SERVANTS. Females are in regular demand at wages from $3 to $4 per month. MECHANICS. Very few as journeymen are w^anted ; but a number of Black- smiths, Tailors, Shoemakers, as well as other trades, might do well on their own account. . 16 1 Chain GS. at they ildings, at tlioy 3r their bouring inection he west and on Darts it n some fair pro lumber ipation, ;. The lants of CROWN LANDS. About 103,(544 acres remain ungranted. Much of this is suitOr ble for cultivation and settlement, but not accessible by roads. These lands are situated in the interior of tlie county, extending to the county lines of Yarmouth and Annapolis, and on both sides of the Sissboo river. More tiian one-half of tiio* more recently granted lands remain unoccupied and unimproved. About 10,000 acres held merely for the saicc of the timber on them could be purchased at very small prices from the owners. ♦ The prevailing description of timber on unoccupied lands con- sists chiefly of Spruce, with a large proportion of hardwood ; Birch, Beech and Maple. Farms of 200 acres, with buildings, and partially cleaied, may be purchased at from f COO to |800, according to situation and quality of soil. The markets for disposal of produce are the United States and West Indies for fish. New Brunswick and the United States for farm produce. Conveyances, of course, by water. MANUFACTURES. There arc in this county 12 Grist Mills and 108 Saw Mills, by water power ; and 1 Saw Mill by steam power ; 5 Carding and 10 Shingle Mills by water ; 4 Tanneries, and 4 Carriage and Cabinet factories. nd har- II per $4 per Black- lo well ANNAPOLIS COUNTY Is bounded on the west by the county of Digby ; on the north west by the Bay of Fundy ; on the east by Kings County ; and on the south east by Queens and Lunenburg Counties. • Population by census of 1861, 16,753. The surface of the county is varied and beautiful. It was settled in 1605 by the French, who were attracted by the fertility of the soil and other natural advantages. Annapolis is the county town. The people are industrious and I 16 '^ thrifty. Farming is tlio cliicf occupation, and the system is im- proving. Tlic youth take pleasure in planting new orchards, and in the neatness of their fences and dwellings. A minor proportion of the population is engaged in lumbering and the fisheries. AORICULTUIIAL LABOUltERS Are not much wanted, a small number would supply all the demand. DOMESTIC SERVANTS. The reports are the same of them. MECHANICS. The same also. CROWN LANDS. About 260,915 acres remain to be disposed of. .Some is of excellent quality, consisting of meadow lands, adjoining arable up- lands in the townships of Annapolis and Clements, and bordering on Queens and Lunenburg Counties. There are many thousands of acres of granted lands in this county, unoccupied and uncultivated ; the most of which is of good quality. The timber on unoccupied lands consists chiefly of Birch, Beech, Maple, Spruce, and Hemlock, with a good proportion of Pine, Fir, and Oak. The Oak on granted lands has been nearly all cut to manufacture staves. Farms of 200 acres, with buildings and partial clearance, can be purchased at from 1300 to .|>800, according to locality and quality of land. Those for sale are in the back settlements. Very good land recently cleared, but without buildings, can be had for $4 per per acre. ^ The markets for disposal of farm produce are Halifax and St, John, New Brunswick ; the West Indies for Boards and Deals, and Boston for firewood. A few cargoes of Deals were sent last year to South America. MANUFACTURES, '^ In this county there are 33 Grist Mills, 5 Carding and 6 Shingle Mills, all propelled by water power ; 1 Iron Foundry, 1 Cabinet factory, 1 Pottery, 1 Cloth factory, and 1 Rake factory. Mr. James Hillis, of Bridgetown, states that the Foundry Com- i iin IS im- ards, and ropoi'tioii !S. f all the 17 paiiy makes all kinds of Stoves, Plouglis, sliip and mill work ; that (Mf^lit men are employed, and that a snfiicient market is found iii tlie county, Mr. Jolni Barris, of the Lcquille Mills, states that the Company make Satinctte, Kersey, Jean, and Flannels upon cotton warp; that ten liands are employed, and that tlie cloth is principally sold in the western parts of the Province and Halifax. KINGS COUNTY 10 is of rable up- ordering in this of good Beech, ne, Fir, cut to can be quality ry good 84 per md St, Deals, ent last Shingle abinet f Corn- Is bounded on the west by Annapolis County ; on the north by Minas Ciianncl ; on the east by Minas Basin ; and on the south cast l)y Lunenburg and Hants Counties. Population by census of 18G1, 18,731. The surface of the county, like that of Annapolis, is beautiful and diversified. It also was first settled by the French, who dyked much of the marsh land. Kentvillo is the county town. The people arc industrious and enerf^etic, and are chiefly engaged in. farming and fruit growing.- Ship-building is also carried on to some extent. AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS. There is a little more encouragement for in this than the former reported counties. A small number in addition to those already engaged would find constant employment. DOMESTIC SERVANTS. There is little scarcity of; but a few more would find ready, engagements. MECHANICS. A moderate number of Carpenters, Blacksmiths, Shoemakers,, &c., could find profitable employment. CROWN LAND8. About 110,577 acres remain ungranted, the greater part of which is of good quality, situated principally in Aylesford district* No estimate has been returned of the quantity of granted but I '" 18 unimproved and unoccupied lands in this county. Tliey are no doubt of importance. The timber on unoccupied lands consists of all descriptions of both hard and soft woods. Farms of 200 acres, with buildings and partially cleared, could be purchased in the more remote districts at from $600 to f 800. The markets for disposal of produce are the United States, New Brunswick, Halifax, and the southern shore of Nova Scotia. Con- veyances, by water to the States, New Brunswick, and the coast ; to Halifax, by waggons to Windsor, and tlience by rail. MANUFACTURES. A Boot and Shoe factory at Wolfville, a Rake factory at Ayles- ford, and an Edge Tool factory at Sheffield Mills, Cornwullis ; 20 Grist Mills propelled by water, 72 Saw Mills by water and 1 by steam power ; 7 Carding and 13 Shingle Mills by water power, and 1 Tannery. « HANTS COUNTY Is bounded on the north west and north by Kings County and* "^ the Basin of Minas ; on the east by the Shubenacadie river, whicb : separates it from Colchester County ; and on the south by Halifax. . and Lunenburg Counties. '^ Population by census of 1861, 17,460. The surface of tlie county is in general low and undulating, ex- • cept in the southern part, where there are hilly districts. The soiL in the lower parts is good and fertile, but in tlie hilly parts ofteu. stoney and unproductive. < Windsor is the county town. The people are industrious, pru- dent, and economical, and are chiefly engaged in agricultural pur- suits ; but many are extensively engaged in ship-building. The , greater number live in a degree of comfort and independence not : surpassed in any eountry. AGBICUTURAL LABOURERS. 'A^^considerable number would, find, no difficulty in getting con- stant employmentr^ I 19 DOMFSTIC SERVANTS. A good many females would bo readily engaged. MECHANICS. The county is at present pretty well supplied with mechanical labor. CROWN LANIIS. About 121,368 acres remain undisposed of. The lands recently granted have been taken up for the sake of the timber. Those remaining are north of th Ko netcook river ; and in Douglas, Walton, Kmpt, and Newport districts. About 90,000 are estimated m remaining neglected and unim- proved by the proprietors under old grants. The prevailing description of timber on unoccupied lands is chiefly soft wood ; P' .le, Spruce, Hemlock, and Fir. But there is a considerable proportion of hard wood ; Maple, Birch, and Beech. Farms of 200 acres, with wooden buildings, and 40 acres cleared, could be purchased at from $400 to $1200. The prices varying with the situation and quality of the lands. ^ The markets for disposal of produce are Halifax (the principal) and the United States. Conveyance to Halifax chiefly by the oast and west branches of the railroad ; to the United States by sea. MANUFACTURES. 1 Iron Foundry, 1 Tannery, 3 Carriage factories, 1 Block factory 1 Brick and Pottery work, and 1 Woodenware factory ; 19 Grist Mills propelled by water ; 67 Saw Mills, 63 by water and 4 by steam power ; 6 Carding, and 8 Shingle Mills by water power. The " Stillwater Mills" manufacture Deals, Boards, and Laths. 40 men are generally employed ; and they supply a foreign as well as a domestic demand. Mr. Malcom, proprietor of the Brick and Pottery work, states that he manufactures pressed, common, and fire bricks, fire tiles, and all articles usually made from fire clay. In the pottery de- partment, drain pipes of all sizes, chimney tops, farmers' tiles stove pipe tubes, and earthen and stoneware of all descriptions • that he employs about 45 hands, and finds a market for his goods entirely in Nova Scotia. 20 Messrs. Alox. Stcplicn & Co., proprietors of the woodcnwarc factory, state that they mamilacture Pails, Tubs, Wash-boards, Clothes-pins, Bedsteads, Chairs, Tables, Ac., &c., &,c. ; that their works are driven by steam power, and that tliey employ from GO to 70 hands on an average. The Gold Districts of Renfrew and Mount Uniacke are in this county. Both near stations on the railways. •m COLCHESTER COUNTY Is bounded on the north west by Tatmagouche Bay and Cum- berland County ; on the south east by Cobequid Bay and the Shubenacadie river ; on the south by Halifax County ; and on the cast by Pictou County. Population by census of 18G1, 20,045. The surface of the count)' is diversified ; it has a great variety of soils, and is important as an agricultural county. It contains rich deposits of Iron, and some deposits of Coal have also been discovered. The French were the first settlers, but there are now no inhabitants of French descent in it. Truro is the county town. Farming is the principal occupation, but many of the population p*re engaged in lumbering and ship-building. In summer, numbers are engaged in the shad and other fisheries of the Bay of Fundy ; and in winter in cutting timber for ship-building, and foreign markets. The people are industrious, and rapidly advancing in material prosperity and home comforts. AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS A few beyond those already employed ; say from 60 to 100, would have no difficulty in finding permanent engagements. DOMESTIC SERVANTS. Not many wanted. MECHANICS. The demand pretty well supplied, a few more would find employ- ment. 81 (odciiwarc* iih-boards, hat tlicir •0111 00 to re in this nd Cum- aiid the id on tlic t variety contains Iso been are now dy town. )pulation numbers Fundy ; foreign material CROWN LANDS. About 70,516 acres remain uiijL^ranted, of which 30,000 arc computed to be good tillage land. Excellent tracts of these lay b(!t\v(;en the head waters ol' the Stowiacko river and St. Mary's river. There arc large portions of land alienated by old grants, un- occupied and neglected. The extent cannot be properly computed) l)ut (Voin h to 0,000 a';res are considered to be of very good quality. The alienation of much of these lands has been a great impediment to settlcnuMit, as the proprietors will not sell on reasonable terms, although they themselves neglect the land entirely. The timber on unoccupied lands consists chiefly of hardwoods with a mixture of softwoods. The quality of l)oth is generally good. Farms of 200 acres, with buildings, partially cleared, may bo had at from 1400 to f^l200. According to situation, soil, &c. There are none offering at present. The markets for disposal of produce are Great Britain, the out- j)orts of the Province, and Halifax ; to which city the conveyance is entirely by rail. MANUFACTURES. 33 Grist Mills propelled by water ; 122 Saw Mills, one of which is by steam, the others by water power ; 13 Carding, and 19 Shinglo Mills by water power : 3 Fulling Mills, 5 Tanneries, 1 Boot and Shoe Factory, 1 Saw and Planing Mill, 1 Iron Foundry, 8 Lath Mills, and one Plaster Mill. Mr. Jas. W. Killer, of the Boot and Shoe factory (at Truro) states that they make men's, women's, and children's boots and shoes. That they employ on an average about 40 hands, and that their sales are confined to the limits of the Province. 0, would employ- CITMBEULAND COUNTY Is bounded on the north by Northumberland Straits ; on the north west by New Brunswick, Cumberland Basin and Chiegnecto Bay ; and on the south and south west by Minas Channel and Basin, and the county of Colchester. If 22 Population by census of 18G1, 19,r)33. Nearly all the land in Cumberland is susceptible of cultivation, though much of it is light and sandy. Tiio most valuable mineral ^s coal, and other resources are rich and various. The surface is undulating in the northern parts. The people are industrious, and generally engaged in agriculture, but lumbering and ship-building are also followed to a large extent. AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS. Only a limited number of new hands would find constant em- ployment. DOMESTIC SERVANTS. Females of tl.is class would meet engagements. Still there is no great demand. MECHANICS. None in addition to those in the county required. CROWN LANDS. About 211,813 acres remain for disposal, and these chiefly lay west and east of the main road, leading from Patridge Island to Amherst ; to westward in direction of Apple River, and to east- ward in direction of Pine Island. There is not much granted land in this county unoccupied. The timber on imoccupied lands consists chiefly of hard woods. Maple, Birch, - pied. rd woods. 'f Spruce, iCe, might id in con- lifax and not much Europe. Isor. 292 Saw Carding propelled ..f piCTOu county- Is bounded on the south west and west by Colchester County ; on the north by the Northumberland Strait ; on the east by Sydney or Antigonish County ; and on the south by Halifax and Guys- borough Counties. < Population by census of 1861, 18,985. The surface of the county is generally undulating. In the western part there is a group of hills, and the southern part is a more hilly district. The soil in the lower parts is everywhere capable of cultivation ; but although stony in the hilly districts there are amongst them some of the most fertile soils in the county. Pictou is the county town. Coal and iron ore abound in the county. The people are generally moral and industrious, and have liiade rapid progress in their pursuits. The majority are engaged in agriculture, but many in mercantile business, besides Miners and Mechanics. AGMCULTUaAL LABOURERS. There is no scarcity of at present. DOMESTIC SERVANTS A moderate number of females would meet engagement. There is no scarcity. MECHANICS. The demand is pretty well supplied, but there is room for a moderate number of industrious and sober people. CROWN LANDS. About 107,259 acres remain ungranted. They lay between the head of East Branch and St. Mary's River, and the counties of Sydney and Guysborough, and in sundry unsettled portions of the county. But the most suitable for cultivation have been already granted. The extent of land owned but unoccupied under old grants cannot be precisely estimated. The prevailing description of timber on unoccupied lands is n^ 24 chiefly luird wood on tlio host, viz: JJirch, Maplo, JJcof;li, J 1 ANTIGONJSU COUNTY, Or Sydney County, is bounded on the north and e^st by Northum- berland Strait, St, fjoorgo's Hay, and the Strait of Canso ; on the w^est by Pictou County ; and on the south oast by CJuysborough County. Population by census of 1861, 14,871. The centre of Sydney County presents a largo and fertile valley, bounded >n two sides by broken and hilly districts which are not of great elevation, and contain many tracts of good soil. The useful minerals are gypsum and limestone. Antigonish is the county town. The people are almost exclu- sively agriculturists, but follow^ grazing and raising of stock more than the cultivation of cereals or fruit, 'J'hey are not very enter- prising, and their progress is slow. Shi{>-building is carried on in some districts. A GRI CULTURAL LAB0UU^:[i3. The demand is fully supplied by residents. DOMKHTIC HhjlVANTB. Only a few females used to farm work could be employed. 25 MKCIIANICB. No |;rcHCiit oijoiiiiig for any beyoud tlicsc already in tljc county. CriOWN LANDH. TlifTO am about 7, '5^2 acros ronuiining in tlio lumds of tlio govornniont, altlioup^li somo aro already sfiuatted on. Tliero arc several thousand aeres of land owned under old ied. Tliey are situated in the western fmrt of the eounty, and roads are rerjuired to make them availal)le. Farms of 200 acres with huiiriiuf^s, and partially cleared, car be purchased at from ^400 to ^HOO, according to advantages of locality, Ac. TIh! f>revailing description of timber on unoccu()ied lands is chiefly hard wood, Hirch, Beech, y water power; 8 Carding and 7 Shingie Mills by water power also; 2 Fulling Mills, and 1 Lath Mill. A S;jlt work o'" cfnisiderable extent is in course of erection in the vicinity of the County town. (iUYSBORU^HI COUNTY Js bounded on the south west by the county of Halifax ; on the north l)y I'ictou and Hydney Counties; on the north east and east by the Strait of Can.seau and Chcdabucto Bay; and on the south by the Atlantic. IV^fjulation by census of 1801, 12,71-». The county in the northern part is g(;nerally cultivable, and in some parts on the east and w(!st branches of the St. Mary's River ; also on the nortli side of Ch(;dabucto Bay it is both beautiful and fertile. The southern half of the county is rugged and uneven, but hjis some good soil on the bordcjs of the rivers. In most parts on the coafct it is rocky and barren. Granite for building and mill- 45» •!•♦!._ ■■i '; I! ! ! till 26 stones abounds in the southern parts of the county ; and there are large beds of limestone near the town of Guysborough. Guysborough is the county town. The population in the south- ern parts of the county on the sea coast are chiefly engaged in the prosecution of the fisheries, and are not very industrious ; they have made but little progress for several years past. Those of the northern and western parts are principally farmers, who in general are very industrious, and have made good progress during the last few years ; clearing off debts which they had incurred, and be- coming independent. AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS. Have been much wanted for three or four years ; but very few farmers in the county can afford to hire *hcm. A few good men would get steady employment. H I DOMESTIC SERVAWTS. There is some scarcity of female domestics ; a few would get employment. MECHANICS. There are as many in the county as can find profitable employ ment. CROWN LANDS. About 171,668 acres are ungranted in different parts of (he county. There is a tract of ungranted lands of about 25,000 acres between Manchester Harbor^ the Gut cf Canso, and Traeadie, one half of which is eligible for settlement. There is also on Liscomb River some very good land, and on Ekumsekum River, about ten miles from the coast, some excellent land. There are about fifteen or twenty thousand acres of land held under old grants and unimproved, very suitable for settlement, situated to the westward and northward of the town of Guysbo- rough, which could be purchased at from $60 to $80 per 100 acres. In the western part of the county there is nearly as much more. The timber on unoccupied lands consists chiefly of Birch, Beech, Maple, and Firs ; and in the lower parts of the county Juniper (or Larch) and Spruce. Farms of 200 acres, with wooden buildings, and partially cleared, could be purchased at f;;om $600 to 1800. ¥ ■ ? i there are the south- ged in the ions; thej lose of the in general ig the last i, and be- ;j^ 27 The markets for disposal of produce are Capo Canseau, Port Mulgravc, Guysboiough, Sherbrooke, Isaac's Harbor, and Halifax. Conveyance principally with teams by main post roads, and to Halifax by water. MANUFACTURES. 9 Grist Mills, 30 Saw Mills, 6 Carding and 3 Shingle Mills, all propelled by water ; also 1 Pulling Mill and 4 Tanneries. TJie Gold Mining districts of Isaac's Harbour, Wine Harbour and Sherbrooke are situated in this county. fc very few ?ood men '^ould get e employ- ;s of (he )00 acres adie, one Liscomb bout ten md held tlement, Guysbo- )0 acres. nore. , Beech, Juniper cleared. RICHMOND COUNTY ISLAND OP CAPE BRFTON. Is bounded on the west and northwest by Inverness County and the Bras d'Or Lake ; on the southeast and south by the Strait of Can- seau, Chedabucto Bay, and the Atlantic ; on the north east by Cape Breton County. Population by census of 1861, 12,607. The surface of the county is generally low, with some slight elevations at the eastern and western extremities. The soil is, with few exceptions, cultivable ; the beet tracts are on the shore of the Bras d'Or Lake and the margins of the rivers. Minerals. — There are valuable beds of gypsum. Limestone abounds in many places. The coal measures are apparently not very productive. Arichat is the county town. Fishing and the coasting trade are the chiof employments of the people of this county. Farming is followed only by a smaller proportion of them. They are gene, rally industrious in their pursuits. AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS Are not required, the farmers with tlieir families doing all thc'r own work. DOMESTIC SERVANTS Are not required either. MECHANICS. A few good hands would meet with encouragement. 28 CROWN LANDS. About 123,461 acres remain to be disposed of, situated iu West Bay, St. George's Channel, Frambosi, Loch Lomond, and at Grand River. About 1,500 acres conveyed under old grants, and owned by private individuals, continue unoccupied and negl-^cted. Timber. — The unoccupied lands are covered chiefly with a mixture of Birch, Beech, and Maple, with a small proportion of Spruce, Fir and Pine. Farms of 200 acres with buildings, and partially cleared, may be purchased at from f 300 to ^400. Halifax is almost the only market depended upon for sale ol produce. The conveyance, by water. MANUFACTURES. 2 Tanneries, built in 1866 ; 9 Grist Mills, 1 Saw Mill, 1 Carding and 3 Shingle Mills, all propelled by water. CAPE BRETON COUNTY, ISLAND OF CAPE BRETON, Is bounded on the north west and west by Victoria County, and the Bras d'Or Lake ; on the south west by Bras d'Or Lake and Richmond ; on the east by the Atlantic. Population by census of 1861, 20,866. The surface ef the county is generally undulating, and in many places very fertile. The valuable minerals are coal, limestone, and gypsum. Sydney is the county town. The people are not very industri- ous and their progress consequently slow in wealth and education. Farming is the principal pursuit, but many are fishermen, and now a considerable number are employed at the coal mines. AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS. None wanted. DOMESTIC SERVANTS. No prospect for any. 29 lated in , and at vned by with a rtion of sd, may sale of Warding M m MECHANICS. The wants of the county are fully supplied with those already there. CROWN LANDS. About 110,457 acres remain ungranted and for disposal, but not much of them suitable for cultivation, laying principally between the north shore of St. Ann's and the County line. There are no unoccupied lands conveyed under old grants reported. The timber on unoccupied lands consists chiefly of spruce, maple, birch, and beech — on barren lands, scrub spruce. The markets for disposal of produce are Newfoundland, St. Pierre, Halifax, and the Coal Mines. The only exports are coal and cod- fish, which are sent to Canada, the United States, and West Indies. Conveyances all by water. MANUFACTURES. There are two Iron Foundries in the County, a Shoe Factory, and several Tanneries on a small scale ; 20 Grist mills, 19 by water and 1 by steam power ; 29 Saw mills, 28 by water and 1 by steam ; 1 Carding and 1 Shingle mill, both propelled by water power ; 1 Engine Factory and 1 Oat mill. INVERNESS COUNTY. The County of Inverness, Island of Cape Breton, is bounded on the northwest by the Gulf of Saint Lawrence ; on the west and southwest l->y St. George's Bay and the Strait of Canseau ; on the southeast by Richmond County and the Bras d'Or Lake ; and on the east by Cape Breton County. Population by census of 1861 — 19,907. In the northern part the county is generally elevated and unpro- ductive. The southern part is lower, and the soil everywhere valuable. Coal occurs in large valuable deposits at Port Hood, Mabou, and Broad Cove. Gypsum, Limestone and Freestone are found at several places. Port Hood is the county town. The people are in general mode- ^rately industrious, and all in the interior are engaged in farming. '% 30 On the sea-shore, farming and fishing combined. Good progress in the condition of the coimty lias been made of late years. FARM LABORERS Are not required — families doing all the work themselves. None wanted. DOMESTIC SERVANTS. MECHANICS. There is no opening for more than are already in the county. About 157,337 acres remain of lands ungranted ; by far the greater part of which is mountainous, barren, and unfit for profit- able cultivation. The quantity of lands held under old grants and unoccupied, is not considerable ; and the most of them will be soon settled, as the parties owning them have young families to bring up. A farm of 20C acres, with Log-house, and about 40 acres cleared, could not be purchased under $700. None are at present offered for sale. The timber on unoccupied lands consists chiefly of birch, beech, and maple. Portions are mixed with fir, spruce, and hemlock. Halifax is the chief and almost only market relied upon for disposal of produce. Conveyance by water. MANUFACTURES. Four Dyeing and Fulling mills ; 37 Grist mills ; 30 Saw mills ; 5 Carding and 10 Shingle mills. All propelled by water. VICTORIA COUNTY. Victoria County, Island of Cape Breton, is bounded on the north- west by Inverness County ; on the east by the Atlantic ; and on the southeast and south by Cape Breton County and the Bras d'Or Lake. Population by census of 1861, — 9,643, now rapidly increasing. In the southern parts of the county the lands are generally low and fertile. The remainder consists of wooded hills, and elevated table lands, with belts of low and fertile soil in the valleys and along the coast. Towards the north the hills in the interior present much bold and romantic scenery. It has valuable gypsum quar- ries and coal mines, and recently gold also has been found. •% rogress in 3S. mty. far the r profit- ipied, is 1, as the farm of Lild not sale. beech, ck. )on for mills ; torth- nthe Jake. ng- ■ low ated and sent uar- 31 Bcdcqiie or Baddeck is the county town. The people cannot bo called generally industrious ; much time is lost in idleness, but notwithstanding the county has progressed considerably in wealth and comfort during the last few years. The occupation of the people is divided between farming and fishing — the former on the southwest and the latter on the northeast parts. Farming is little understood, and those who are engaged in it are very deficient in their business. Consequently the produce is small, although the land is good. FARM LABORERS. A few would meet encouragement at wages from $10 to fl4 per month with board, and an increase of pay in the haying season. DOMESTIC SERVANTS. Not many required ; those from Europe not adapted to the work in this county. MECHANICS. There is no encouragement for — those in the county are not steadily employed. CROWN LANDS. About 120,474 acres remain ungranted, but very little of this is fit for settlement. Almost all lands available and fronting oa the waters and rivers are already settled. There are about 2500 acres of granted lands, owned by private individuals, on which little or no labor has been spent. Farms of 200 acres, with house and barn, partially cleared, may be got at from |5200 to $600. There are several of 100 acres offered for sale. Timber on unoccupied lands consists chiefly of hard wood with soft wood of common kinds, spruce, &c. No pine woodlands. MARKETS FOR PRODUCE. Newfoundland, the Mines, St. Pierre, and Halifax. Conveyance by water. MANUFACTURES. There are several Tanneries and one Boot and Shoe Factory ; 18 Grist mills ; 14 Saw mills and 2 Shingle mills, all by water power. Also one Fulling and Dyedng milL 1 i 32 CONCLUSION. ^1' i'li While the Province appears to be pretty well supplied for the present with both skilled and unskilled labor, there is distinctly a largo field open with coMsideral)le inducements to agriculturists who are possessed of sufficient mdans to enable them to commence farming on their own account, and, with some encouragement from Government (which would soon be amply remunerated), to respectable farm laborers also. Nova Scotia is not only an agricul- tural country ; it presents many great advantages for the disposal of farm produce besides. With ready sales and good prices in her own markets, the short and cheap conveyances to seaports for ship- ment are a great advantage to the farmer, not enjoyed in Western Canada and the Western States. It may be asked, then, why are the farmers of Nova Scotia so backward in progress ? and why is there not a greater demand for farm laborers ? Several sufiicient answers can be given to tiiese questions. In former times an idea prevailed, which existed to a certain extent until not very long since, that the cultivation of the soil was an inferior occupation ; and that money could be more rapidly acquired and wealth attained in many other pursuits. The dispo- sition of the people to engage in the exciting pursuits of the shore fisheries, by which, on fortunate occasions, large sums were made, and contenting themselves with cultivating only as much as was required for their bare support, — the restless practice of lumheringy too, (as cutting of timber is called) distracted the attention of many from their farms. The means of living were too easily ob- tained to compel people to give earnest attention to an occupation in which any one might engage, and so perfectly within their reach. They were easy, and might have been in comfortable cir- cumstances and gradually prosperous ; but many felt discontented that they were not rich, and thought that they could only become so by fortunate adventures and speculations, in seeking after which ruin has often been the consequence. It is not, therefore, to be wondered at, that a common want of any scientific knowledge of farming prevailed, and that the lands were tilled in a slovenly and improvident manner. The cheap- ness of the land, too, induced the farmer to neglect any means to I 33 iiHToaso or prolong its fertility. After exhausting tlic portion of Ins property eleared by repeated eropping, without nny application of manure, lie would clear another part rather than hestow any pains or expense; upon what lie had previously brought uiuler culti- vation. It is still well known that, generally, the farmers of Nova Scotia are (hiiicient in practical as well as scientific agriculture ; that they n