Freedom of the City tradition has rich history

Halifax’s annual Freedom of the City parade takes place today, but many people don’t know about the history of the age-old military tradition.

Retired army colonel, John Boileau, said it dates back as far as the Roman Empire, and was originally granted as an honour to new soldiers to show that the community trusted them.

“When you go back to Roman and medieval times, you have to realize that most of the cities and towns were fortified,” he said. “Armed soldiers were treated very suspiciously and would not be allowed normally inside those towns unless they knew that they were absolutely friends.”

Boileau said Halifax’s installment of the tradition is represented by the 78th Highlanders, who will march down from Citadel Hill this afternoon to Government House, where they will end at Grand Parade for a proclamation ceremony.

He said Halifax celebrates this honour because of the city’s British roots.

“Many of our traditions come from them, and this is one of the ones that we carry on.”

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today