I picked up a copy of the January/February issue because of the feature on my beloved Tantramar Marshes. While I was thrilled to see a Yorkshire barn—that iconic symbol of the marshes—in the spread, I was disappointed that it was not identified as such.

These barns were built in the same fashion that the Yorkins who came here in 1772-75 would have built back home in the North Riding, and that design has survived the 230 plus years since their first arrival. Unfortunately, their numbers are shrinking.

I was also disappointed there was no mention of the only battle of the American Revolution fought on Nova Scotia soil in your timeline or story. It was a battle fought on the marshes in the gloomy month of November 1776, and had a few minor circumstances shifted towards the other side, we might be Americans today. It shaped the destinies of many of the settlers who lived there at the time, including several ancestors of our current prime minister—he had ancestors with feet in both camps.

The photos were spectacular in capturing the land I love so well. My family roots dig deep into those marsh soils, as my ancestors were both Planters and Yorkins.

Tantramar is a place where, even when the winds are blowing around me, I am at peace.

Carol Dobson
Halifax
 

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