Historical Churches (1700’s - 1922), Nova Scotia

People of faith have always found a way to assemble in simple constructions or ornate grand buildings and is no different from settlers who reached the shores of Nova Scotia, Canada, at the turn of the 18th century. Nova Scotia’s hostile winter climate highlights the brutal weathering buildings were exposed to and isolated during this season, evident in the more rural areas overlooking the shoreline and the mountainous regions and counties where many churches have been abandoned and left in ruin. Some of the original constructions do not exist due to fire and weather elements. They are located in rugged terrain, giving an insightful look at how the settlers faced complex and logistical obstacles building these structures. Architectural styles vary from Maritime Vernacular style buildings modified with Gothic Revival elements to the more traditional Victorian.

My focus is to photograph the lesser-known churches, small intimate buildings exploring the challenges settlers took to construct these places of worship to attend to their communities faith needs. Many of these churches are still in use today, with efforts to preserve them for future generations. Some churches surrounded by old graveyards, others perched on top of hills isolated and in disrepair and have garnered country heritage status and have existed since the 18th century. The black & white is intentional to accentuate the hostile environment. This ongoing project is one way to preserve part of Nova Scotian heritage. - Belinda Muller