Online Sports Exhibit Launched

Nova Scotians interested in the province's history of amateur sport can take a step back in time with the latest virtual exhibit developed by Nova Scotia Archives and Records Management.

The exhibit, called "Tom Connors: The Old Sport," features almost 800 historical photographs dating from the 1860s to the 1940s. They show Nova Scotians hard at play or celebrating victories in more than a dozen different sports.

"Nova Scotia has a strong tradition of producing exceptional athletes," said Bill Dooks, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. "This virtual exhibit showcases the great athletes of yesterday and was assembled with photographs by Tom Connors, the province's biggest sports fan of the time."

From regattas to the boxing ring and from the rugby pitch to baseball diamonds, the digitized photographs are vivid reminders of medal winners, record-breakers, star athletes of the day, and people just keeping active.

Many of the photographs include Mr. Connors's own handwritten notes, giving further context to the images. His deep-rooted personal connection with amateur sport is evident as he identifies "old-timer" heroes from "the good old days," and proudly labels up-and-coming young athletes as champions.

"We are proud to present this popular photo collection to our Internet audience," said provincial archivist Brian Speirs. "A century ago, Mr. Connors's specialty collection was regarded as the finest of its kind in Canada and the images are still just as powerful today."

Mr. Connors was born in Halifax in 1862 and competed as a youth in tug of war matches and boxing. His passion for sport drove him to train local athletes and support amateur athletics until his death in 1949. He was so well known in sporting circles throughout Canada and the United States that he was affectionately dubbed "The Old Sport."

Besides showcasing the history of amateur sport, Mr. Connors's collection illustrates Halifax as a growing city and the scenic beauty of Nova Scotia. Images presented online include fire and police departments, parades and carnivals, businesses and streets, Halifax Harbour and the Northwest Arm, fishing villages and schooners.

The exhibit is on the Nova Scotia Archives and Records Management website at www.gov.ns.ca/nsarm/cap/connors .

Nova Scotia Archives and Records Management acquires, preserves and makes available the province's documentary heritage.