From Factories to Offices

These exhibits show industries that shaped Nova Scotia, highlighting both achievements and challenges. World wars temporarily boosted production, with women taking on vital roles operating lathes and presses. After World War II, government incentives supported manufacturing. A visitor favourite is our 1963 Volvo Canadian, a Class B sedan and the first to roll of the assembly line at Volvo’s Dartmouth plant.

As traditional industries declined, service and knowledge-based industries grew to meet the needs of a new consumer class. Explore examples of office work, hairdressing, tourism, and evolving modern industries.