In 1866 the SS England, a large ship carrying 1300 immigrants bound for New York, was suddenly struck by a cholera outbreak and was forced to make an emergency stop in Halifax. By the time the anchor was dropped in the Halifax Harbour, 50 passengers had already succumbed to the disease. Archbishop Thomas Connolly was so concerned about the care of the patients, especially the children orphaned, and asked for volunteers from the community. Despite the very serious risk of contracting the fatal disease, every Sister volunteered. Three Sisters went to McNabs and miraculously, all survived.
Painting by Sister Agnes Berchmans Landry
