While researching family history, many of us find a connection to Nova Scotia. Movement to and from the United States was very common. Patterns of migration occurred in large and small numbers at different points in history to Nova Scotia from the United States and many European countries including Scotland, Germany, Ireland and France. Indeed, what we know today as Nova Scotia has been settled for 10,000 years, when there is proof that Mi’kmaq peoples were in residence. European settlement began with the French in the early 1600s and the area was known as l’Acadie (Acadia). At various times, Nova Scotia included current New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. Cape Breton Island did not become permanently part of Nova Scotia until 1820.
Today more than half the members of the Genealogical Association of Nova Scotia (GANS) reside in other parts of Canada, the United States and other world-wide locations. As a celebration of the role the early residents played in the development of Nova Scotia, GANS implemented a programme for the Nova Scotia Ancestors certificate. Whether you currently reside in Nova Scotia or are descended from Nova Scotians who migrated elsewhere, this is an excellent way to recognize these early ancestors and their descendants, who were residents of Nova Scotia prior to the Confederation of Canada in 1867.
How to apply
Members or non-members can apply for a Nova Scotia Ancestors Certificate. In order to confirm the individual named on the certificate descended from the original Nova Scotia ancestor, an application form must be completed. Applicants that meet the essential criteria requested on the application form, along with their application fee, will receive a certificate suitable for framing signed by the President of GANS.
If the applicant grants permission, the name of the person on the certificate along with their ancestor’s name will be listed on a dedicated page on the GANS’ website. The Nova Scotia Genealogist, the GANS quarterly journal, will also highlight new certificates as they are awarded.
GANS is unable to provide research on the applicant’s behalf. GANS’ role is only to verify the application and award the certificate. It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide the necessary documentation as as requested. GANS cannot review in advance an application to see if it qualifies. Send in your application and payment and we will contact you, if there are gaps in your application or documentation.
