Reasons To Start A Business In Springhill, Nova Scotia
Springhill is a community in central Cumberland County, Nova Scotia, Canada. It was founded as "Springhill Mines" and grew due to the coal mining industry, being incorporated as a town in 1889.
The Springhill coalfield was established in the 19th century, and several companies had been working on it by the early 1880s. It eventually merged into Cumberland Railway & Coal Company Ltd. in 1884.
Coal mining was Springhill's economic mainstay, with one mine reaching a depth of 4,000 feet, said to be the deepest in Canada. However, the town is also famous for the Springhill Mining Disasters of 1891, 1956, and 1958, which killed 240 miners.
Following the 1958 disaster, mining operations in Springhill were shut down and never reopened. As of 2015, the abandoned mine properties, among the deepest in the world with the No. 2 mine reaching 14,300 feet, are filled with water and provide Springhill's industrial park with geothermal heating.
The town is also known as the childhood home of international recording star Anne Murray, honoured by the Anne Murray Centre, a popular tourist attraction.
Springhill is located in the Cobequid Mountains, also known as the Cobequid Hills, part of the Appalachian mountain range. The town lies approximately 650 feet above sea level and occupies a total land area of only 4 square miles.
The surrounding terrain has divergent elevations from 400 to 650 feet, with panoramic views of the historic lowlands. Springhill is situated on the southern side of the Cumberland Coal Basin, with six main coal seams overlapping in the area.
The seams, separated by strata of sandstone and shale, were once horizontal but were raised by internal earth movement. Now, they slop sharply down into the earth at an angle of thirty-five degrees.
In 2015, the Town of Springhill amalgamated into the Municipality of the County of Cumberland. Before this, the town's elected council, under the leadership of Mayor Max Snow, had announced the decision to give up the municipal incorporation charter effective April 1, 2015.
Coal mining in Springhill started as early as 1834 when a local man sold coal to blacksmiths. The first real coal mine, the No. 1 Mine, opened in 1872. By the late 1850s, after the General Mining Association lost its 30-year monopoly on most Nova Scotia minerals, independent operators could open mines in Springhill.
However, Springhill is most famous for the three major mining disasters in 1891, 1956, and 1958. The 1891 explosion, caused by an ignited coal dust and gas mixture, killed 125 miners, including child labourers.
The 1956 explosion claimed 39 lives, while the 1958 "bump" (a massive earth disturbance) suffocated 76 miners.
Following the 1958 disaster, the mine operator Dominion Steel & Coal Corporation Ltd. (DOSCO) shut down the mining operations in Springhill, which were never reopened.
The abandoned mine properties, now filled with water, are owned by the government of Nova Scotia and provide geothermal heating for the town's industrial park.
Despite its tragic mining history, Springhill has left a cultural mark on Nova Scotia and Canada. In 1879, the first Canadian coal-mining trade union was legalized in the Springhill collieries.
The town is also the birthplace of country singer Anne Murray, celebrated at the Anne Murray Centre, a popular tourist attraction.
The Springhill mining disasters have been commemorated in various forms, including songs like "La Mine" by the French Canadian folk group Le Vent du Nord and "The Springhill Mine Disaster" by Bill Clifton.
The tragedies have also been the subject of a Heritage Minute and have been mentioned in the song "Springhill Mine Disaster" by U2.
History of Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada
Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada, has a rich history centred around its coal mining industry. Founded as "Springhill Mines" in the 19th century, the town grew due to the coal mining industry and was incorporated as a town in 1889.
Coal mining was Springhill's economic mainstay for decades, with one of the mines reaching a depth of 4,000 feet, said to be the deepest in Canada.
Coal was first discovered in the Springhill area in 1834. Commercial coal mining began in 1872 with the opening of the No. 1 Mine. By the late 1850s, after the General Mining Association lost its 30-year monopoly on most Nova Scotia minerals, independent operators could open mines in Springhill.
The first Canadian coal-mining trade union was legalized in the Springhill Collieries in 1879, and the Springhill Coalfield was established in the 19th century.
By the early 1880s, several companies had been working on it, and it eventually merged into Cumberland Railway & Coal Company Ltd. in 1884. Despite its economic importance, Springhill is most famous for the three major mining disasters in 1891, 1956, and 1958.
The 1891 explosion, caused by an ignited coal dust and gas mixture, killed 125 miners, including child labourers. The 1956 explosion claimed 39 lives, while the 1958 "bump" (a massive earth disturbance) suffocated 76 miners.
Following the 1958 disaster, the mine operator Dominion Steel & Coal Corporation Ltd. (DOSCO) shut down the mining operations in Springhill, which were never reopened.
The abandoned mine properties, now filled with water, are owned by the government of Nova Scotia and provide geothermal heating for the town's industrial park.
Most of Springhill's business district was destroyed by fire in 1957. Coal mining in the town declined in the following decades, with only intermittent mining. In 2015, the Town of Springhill amalgamated into the Municipality of the County of Cumberland.
Today, Springhill celebrates its mining heritage through attractions like the Springhill Miners' Museum and the Anne Murray Centre, honouring the town's most famous native, the country singer Anne Murray.
The Springhill mining disasters have also been commemorated in various forms, including songs, a Heritage Minute, and mentions in other works.
Geography of Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada
Springhill is located in central Cumberland County, Nova Scotia, Canada. It lies in the Cobequid Mountains, also known as the Cobequid Hills, part of the Appalachian mountain range. The town occupies a total land area of only 4 square miles and is approximately 650 feet above sea level.
The surrounding terrain has divergent elevations from 400 to 650 feet, with panoramic views of the historic lowlands. Springhill is situated on the northwestern edge of the Cobequid Hills, midway between the Minas Basin and the Northumberland Strait.
Geologically, Springhill is located on the southern side of the Cumberland Coal Basin, with six main coal seams overlapping in the area. The seams, separated by strata of sandstone and shale, were once horizontal but raised by internal earth movement. Now, they slop sharply down into the earth at an angle of thirty-five degrees.
The night skies in rural upland Nova Scotia are clear of smog, providing some of the clearest views of Venus, Jupiter and Saturn from high in the Cobequid Hills.
Climate and Natural Attractions
Springhill is surrounded by natural wonders worth exploring, such as the Springhill Marsh, a wetland area home to various bird species and other wildlife. The town also offers hiking trails in the Cobequid Mountains, which provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Springhill Lake is a popular spot for fishing and boating, allowing visitors to rent boats and spend the day on the water, taking in the views of the mountains.
Demographics of Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada
Springhill, Nova Scotia, had a population of 2,654 in 2021, down from 2,743 in 2016 and 2,978 in 2011. This indicates a declining population trend in recent years. The population density was 548.1 people per square kilometre in 2021.
Age Distribution
In 2021, Springhill had the following age distribution:
- 0 to 14 years: 390 (14.7%)
- 15 to 64 years: 1,555 (58.8%)
- 65 years and over: 700 (26.5%)
The median age was 48.1 years old in 2016.
In 2021, Springhill's population comprised 1,275 males (48.2%) and 1,370 females (51.8%).
Most of Springhill's population identifies as non-Indigenous, with only 0.8% being Indigenous in 2016.
In 2021, 98.2% of the population were Canadian citizens, with 1.2% immigrants and 0.6% non-permanent residents. The largest place of birth for immigrants was Europe.
In 2016, 19.2% of Springhill's population aged 25 to 64 had a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to 28.5% for Nova Scotia overall.
The median total income of households in 2015 was $46,848, lower than the provincial median of $61,372. The unemployment rate was 19.7% in 2016, significantly higher than the provincial rate of 13.8%.
Springhill has an aging population, lower education levels and incomes than the provincial averages, and very little ethnic diversity. The town has experienced a steady population decline over the past decade.
Economy of Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada
Coal mining was the driving force behind Springhill's economic growth and incorporation as a town in 1889. The Springhill Coalfield was established in the 19th century, with several companies working the mines by the early 1880s. These companies eventually merged to form the Cumberland Railway & Coal Company Ltd. in 1884.
One of Springhill's mines reached a depth of 4,000 feet, which is said to have been the deepest in Canada at the time. However, the town's economy was devastated by the Springhill Mining Disasters of 1891, 1956, and 1958, which killed 240 miners.
Decline of Coal Mining and Transition
Following the 1958 disaster, mining operations in Springhill were shut down by the mine operator Dominion Steel & Coal Corporation Ltd. (DOSCO) and never reopened. Coal mining ceased in the area by the early 1970s.
Since the closure of the mines, Springhill has concentrated its economic interests in other areas, including tourism, institutional services (community college, correctional facility), and manufacturing. The surrounding rural areas farm dairy, produce blueberries, and export timber.
Current Economic Situation
As of 2015, the abandoned mine properties, among the deepest in the world, are filled with water and provide Springhill's industrial park with geothermal heating, which is significantly less expensive and more environmentally friendly than other energy sources.
However, Springhill faces economic challenges, such as competition from the larger community of Amherst, which is only 20 kilometres away. Youth outmigration, high unemployment, and aging municipal infrastructure are also problems for the town.
Tourism development is one key strategy for economic revitalization in Springhill. The town prides itself on its rich history and is home to attractions like the Anne Murray Centre and the Miner's Museum.
Education in Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada
Springhill, Nova Scotia, has several educational institutions serving the community:
Elementary and Secondary Schools
- Springhill Elementary School - A new elementary school is currently under construction in Springhill, funded by the Nova Scotia government.
- Springhill High School (SHS) - The only high school in Springhill serving grades 9-12. It is part of the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board.
Post-Secondary Education
- NSCC Cumberland Campus - A campus of the Nova Scotia Community College located in Springhill, offering various programs.
- NSCC Early Childhood Learning Centre (ECLC) - An early childhood education facility operated by NSCC.
The Chignecto Family-Schools Office is also located in Springhill, providing support services for schools in the area.
Despite having educational institutions, Springhill faces some challenges. In 2016, only 19.2% of the population aged 25-64 had a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to 28.5% for Nova Scotia overall. The town has also experienced a steady population decline in recent years, which could impact school enrollment.
Transport System in Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada
Springhill is served by a few key transportation links:
Rail
Springhill is located 5 km (3.1 mi) south of the Via Rail station in Springhill Junction. It is a stop on request station along the route of the Ocean train which runs between Montreal and Halifax.
Roads
Springhill is located 1 hour and 52 minutes driving distance from the Provincial Capital of Halifax, NS, and approximately 45 minutes from Moncton, New Brunswick. Nearby Amherst is a 20-minute drive, and Parrsboro is approximately 35–40 minutes from Springhill along Route 2.
Nova Scotia Highway 142 is a 6-kilometre (4 mi) highway that links Highway 104 at Exit 5 in Salt Springs Station to the town of Springhill. It crosses the Canadian National Railway main line about 4.5 kilometres (2.8 mi) outside Springhill.
There are several truck transportation companies based in Springhill, Nova Scotia.
Other Transportation
Springhill is surrounded by the Cumberland Trail, which is part of the Trans-Canada Trail System. Local trails are groomed and maintained for approximately 200 kilometres between the Trans-Canada Highway and Southampton in Winter months and are actively used by the Cumberland County Snowmobile Club.
Springhill is connected to the broader region via rail, road, and trails. The main transportation links are Highway 142 and Via Rail's Ocean train. The town serves as a regional hub for truck transportation companies.
Living in Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Springhill, Nova Scotia is generally lower compared to the rest of Canada. According to Salary Expert, the average cost of living index for Springhill is 85.4, meaning it is 14.6% cheaper than the national average.
Housing costs are particularly affordable, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment around $550 per month. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also below the national average.
Economy and Employment
Springhill's economy has struggled since the decline of its coal mining industry in the late 20th century. The town has an unemployment rate of 19.7%, significantly higher than the provincial average of 13.8%.
Major employers include the Nova Scotia Community College campus, a correctional facility, and some manufacturing and tourism businesses. Many residents also work in nearby towns like Amherst.
Demographics
As of 2021, Springhill has a population of 2,654, down from over 4,000 in the early 2000s. The town has an aging population, with a median age of 48.1 in 2016.
Springhill is not very ethnically diverse, with 98.2% of residents being Canadian citizens in 2021. Education levels are also lower than the provincial average, with only 19.2% of adults having a bachelor's degree or higher in 2016.
Amenities and Recreation
Despite its small size, Springhill offers some amenities and recreational opportunities. The town has an elementary school and high school, as well as a campus of the Nova Scotia Community College.
Springhill is home to the Anne Murray Centre, celebrating the famous singer who grew up in the town. The Cumberland Trail, part of the Trans-Canada Trail system, passes near Springhill for hiking and snowmobiling.
Springhill provides an affordable cost of living but faces economic challenges and demographic trends that are common in many small, former resource-based towns. Its mining history and connection to Anne Murray make it an interesting place to visit.
Healthcare in Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada
All Saints Springhill Hospital is the main healthcare facility serving Springhill and the surrounding area. Some key facts about healthcare in Springhill:
- All Saints Springhill Hospital is located at 10 Princess St, Springhill, NS B0M 1X0. It is part of the Nova Scotia Health Authority.
- The hospital provides various health services, including an emergency department, outpatient clinics, diagnostic imaging (X-rays), and blood collection. However, the emergency department is temporarily closed and only offering virtual urgent care visits most days.
- All Saints Springhill Hospital has visiting hours daily from 1 pm to 8 pm. Free parking and public WiFi are available.
- The hospital has a team of healthcare professionals dedicated to the health and well-being of seniors in Cumberland County.
- Occupational therapy, physiotherapy, restorative care, and seniors' clinic services are also offered at the hospital.
- Other healthcare providers in Springhill include Joani's Foot Care, a foot care clinic rated 5 stars.
While facing some temporary service disruptions, All Saints Springhill Hospital remains the primary source of healthcare for the community, providing a range of inpatient and outpatient services to residents of Springhill and the surrounding area.
Tourist places in Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada
Springhill, Nova Scotia offers a few key tourist attractions:
Anne Murray Centre
The Anne Murray Centre is a popular tourist attraction celebrating the life and music of Canadian singer Anne Murray, who was born in Springhill. It features exhibits, memorabilia, and interactive displays about her career.
Springhill Miners' Museum
The Springhill Miners' Museum tells the story of coal mining in Springhill through exhibits, artifacts, and a tour of an underground mine. It commemorates the town's mining history and the tragic disasters that occurred.
Isabel Simpson Heritage Centre
The Isabel Simpson Heritage Centre is a museum housed in a historic building that showcases the history and culture of Springhill and Cumberland County. It features exhibits on topics like the railway, agriculture, and the town's founding.
Cumberland Trail
Part of the Trans-Canada Trail system, the Cumberland Trail passes near Springhill and is popular for hiking and snowmobiling. It offers scenic views of the Cobequid Mountains and surrounding countryside.
Springhill Centennial Golf Club
The Springhill Centennial Golf Club is a 9-hole golf course with a driving range and putting green. It's open from May to October and offers an affordable golfing option for visitors.
Springhill provides a few interesting attractions related to its mining history, music heritage, and natural surroundings. The Anne Murray Centre and Miners' Museum are the top draws for tourists visiting the area.
Local Food of Springhill, Nova Scotia, Canada
Springhill, Nova Scotia has a few notable local food options and culinary traditions:
Blueberries
The surrounding rural areas of Springhill are known for producing high-quality blueberries. Many local farms and businesses incorporate blueberries into their products, from fresh berries to jams, pies, and other baked goods.
Dairy Products
Dairy farming is another important agricultural activity in the Springhill area. Local dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream are popular. Springhill Foodland, the town's main grocery store, sources many dairy products from nearby farms.
Donairs
Donairs, a type of sandwich made with spiced meat, tomatoes, onions and a sweet sauce, are a beloved regional dish in Nova Scotia. Springhill has at least one dedicated donair shop, Paizano's Pizzeria & Donair, that serves this local specialty.
Seafood
As a province surrounded by ocean, Nova Scotia is known for its fresh seafood. While Springhill is not directly on the coast, it is still able to source local fish and shellfish from nearby fishing communities. Restaurants like Sociables Pub and Eatery feature seafood dishes on their menus.
Craft Beer
The craft beer scene has been growing in Nova Scotia in recent years. While Springhill doesn't have any breweries, nearby towns like Amherst have started producing local craft beers that are available in Springhill.
So in summary, while not a major food destination, Springhill does have some local specialties and products, especially when it comes to blueberries, dairy, donairs, and seafood. The town's grocery stores and restaurants aim to incorporate these regional ingredients.
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