As we corresponded with the staff at Louisbourg, we needed a place to say on our way up the coast from Halifax. We finally settled on the tiny fising village of Canso due to the presence of another 18th century French fort on Grassy Island just off the coast. Nothing has survived of the fort save some earthworks and a depression where the well was, but, the town of Canso and its people were unforgettable. The entire town turned out for our parade and performance in the town square. But, that wasn't all! They openned the ice arena for a town party where we joined local musicians in jamming to our fife and drum music and their nautical music. We found common ground with our shared love of the late Stan Roger's nautical music. They were quite surprised to learn that these American not only knew his music but also the words of this great Canadian musician's songs. Stan had grown up and lived a short 20 miles from Canso. |
