Ship Hector

09/04/2026

Join us for the 1st Annual Ship Hector Beat Retreat--organized by Pictou's very own Robbie MacInnis!🎶

Why is it called Beating Retreat?
The tradition dates back to the 17th century, when drums were used to signal the end of the day and call troops back before camp gates were closed for the night. Today, it has evolved into one of the most iconic military ceremonies in the world.

🕢Show starts at 6:30
📍Hector Heritage Quay Yard
💰Refreshments Available by Donation
💲Ticket price is $22 plus tax per person
🎟 Tickets available through deCoste website https://ci.ovationtix.com/36015/production/1290994
or by calling the box office at 902.485.8848

Looking forward to seeing everyone at the Quay!🎻

🥁 ⚓ 🛟 🎼 🦞

09/03/2026

A little (or a lot) of finagling and voila, Ralph and the boys have her pointing north. Come down and have a look for yourself!

🤏 🌞 🛟 ⚓ 🦞

09/03/2026

In 1989, Chief Ronald died of leukaemia and his then 12 year-old son and heir, Ruairidh Donald George MacLennan inherited the Chiefship of the Clan MacLennan, becoming Scotland’s youngest Clan Chief. He hosted his first Clan Gathering in Scotland in 1990 at the age of 13.

Fun Fact: The Chief’s Coat of Arms, with the motto “Dum Spiro Spero” (While I breathe I hope) includes two pipers because the Clan is noted for its piping. A number of MacLennans held the position of town piper in Inverness.

If you think you might be a descendant of one of the Ship Hector passengers, check out the Ship Hector Passenger Descendants page on Facebook--or click on the tag in our intro.

09/02/2026

Thank you Sue S., I'm sure the visitors were dazzled by his knowledge, and I certainly hope your son retains his keen interest in history--please come back and visit us again soon!

⚓ 🛟 🦞 👏 😎 💙🤍💛❤️

09/02/2026

09/01/2026

What a beautiful day to be out working in the yard--the boys have been sweatin' it out for so long they almost found it chilly today!😉🌞

? 🤓

09/01/2026

The Summer Students have gone and now it's just us old folks running the show, so occasionally we will need a day or two off.😉

If you're planning a visit and want to be sure, you can always call us at 902.485.4371 or email [email protected]

08/31/2026

Stepping the Masts--An Historic Milestone for Ship Hector⚓

A mast stepping ceremony is a traditional maritime event marking the installation of a ship's mast(s). The ceremony will include the placement of commemorative coins beneath each mast, recognition of shipwrights and supporters, a maritime blessing, and the ceremonial lowering of the masts into position.

Everyone is invited to drop by Hector Heritage Quay on Saturday, September 26th (9am-all day) to watch this momentous occasion take shape. shiphector.ca

🍾 🌟 ⚓ 😁

08/30/2026

Well, that flew by.

All the best to these kids, they are wonderful people and destined for great things. It was a pleasure getting to know each of them. It's just not going to be the same around here--especially now that Vern will have to turn all of his attention to torturing me instead of you guys.🤣

Have a wonderful year--work hard, play hard, and call your mothers!☎️

08/28/2026

We are so fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers here at Hector Heritage Quay, but Bill--Bill is the man.

You'll see him down here most days, chatting with visitors, touring the ship, and mentoring the summer students. His passion for the Ship Hector story and his delight in talking about his days working on the ship are passed on to everyone he speaks with. He has a wealth of knowledge to share AND he is one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet.

We may not say it often enough Bill, but THANK YOU! Volunteers make the world go 'round and we're very lucky to have some of the best right here in Pictou, Nova Scotia.

👏 😎 🙋‍♀️ ⚓ 🌟 🎻 🦞