Wheels: Historic Transportation Systems and Landscape in the Halifax Watershed

Abstract

This paper explores the history of transportation systems in the Halifax River Watershed from an environmental perspective. Emphasis is placed on the negligible environmental impact of early roads as compared to the late nineteenth century and twentieth century railroads, paved roads, and permanent bridges. The early introduction of the automobile to the Halifax region, the appeal of the area as an affordable vacation destination, and the desire for an automobile-friendly transportation grid would have a permanent and destructive impact on the Halifax River watershed.