Springhill, Nova Scotia, is a community nestled in central Cumberland County, Canada. Known for its rich history in coal mining and as the childhood home of international recording star Anne Murray, Springhill offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Originally founded as "Springhill Mines," the community's growth was fueled by the coal mining industry. The mines in the Springhill coalfield were established in the 19th century, and by the early 1880s, they were operated by the Cumberland Coal & Railway Company Ltd. and the Springhill & Parrsboro Coal & Railway Company Ltd. These entities merged in 1884 to form the Cumberland Railway & Coal Company Ltd., which was sold in 1910 to the industrial conglomerate Dominion Coal Company Ltd. (DOMCO). By the early 1970s, all coal mining had ceased in the area.
The Anne Murray Centre in Springhill pays tribute to the town's most famous resident, internationally acclaimed singer Anne Murray. The Centre offers an intimate look at her life, from her humble beginnings in Springhill to her rise to fame and enduring contributions to the world of music. Visitors can even record their own duet in the mini-recording studio.
Springhill is located in the Cobequid Mountains, a part of the Appalachians. The community is tucked away in the Nova Scotia interior uplands, nestled between the smooth summit of the Cobequid Mountains and the Bay of Fundy. The undulating terrain of Springhill, located approximately 650 feet above sea level, offers panoramic views of the historic lowlands sheltered by towering pines and stands of birch.
Springhill's coal mining history is marked by three major mining disasters in 1891, 1956, and 1958. These events, particularly the final disaster in 1958, accelerated the closure of the largest mines. Today, a commemorative monument stands on the main street of Springhill to honor the miners and their families. The Springhill Coal Mining National Historic Site of Canada offers visitors the opportunity to tour a Springhill coal mine and learn about the town's industrial heritage.
The end of large-scale industrial coal mining presented economic challenges for Springhill. However, the abandoned coal mines have provided an unexpected benefit in the form of geothermal energy, which is now used to heat the town's industrial park. The community has also diversified its economy with the help of provincial and federal government assistance, and several companies continue to operate in the area.
In 2014, the town's elected council announced the decision to dissolve the municipal incorporation charter for the Town of Springhill. As of April 1, 2015, Springhill became part of the Municipality of the County of Cumberland.
Baseball has a long history in Springhill, with the Springhill “Fencebusters” being a notable part of the town's sporting heritage. This tradition continues today through a living history project and local coaching efforts.
The Cumberland Trail, part of the Trans-Canada Trail System, stretches from Springhill to Parrsboro. The trail is actively used and maintained by the Cumberland County Snowmobile Club and the Cobequid Off-Highway Vehicle Club.
Springhill is conveniently located near several major transportation routes and hubs. The Via Rail station in Springhill Junction is just 5 km away, and the town is within driving distance of Halifax, Moncton, Amherst, and Parrsboro.
Discover the rich history, vibrant community, and natural beauty of Springhill, Nova Scotia. Whether you're a history buff, a music fan, or a nature lover, Springhill has something to offer everyone.
