Roads Recognize Historically Significant Contributions of Major Walter Peters and Mabel Hubbard Bell

Halifax Stanfield is pleased to announce that Major Walter Peters and Mabel Hubbard Bell have roadways named after them at Halifax Stanfield, a milestone which was officially recognized earlier today at a reception and ribbon cutting ceremony. These individuals were chosen due to their historical significance and meaningful contributions to both Nova Scotia and aviation.

“I’m thrilled that Halifax Stanfield is able to honour two individuals who pioneered the way, having a goal and a vision to forge forward through adversity to contribute a lasting legacy to society and, in particular, aviation,” said Joyce Carter, President & CEO of Halifax International Airport Authority. “A sincere thank you to Halifax Regional Municipality and the families of Major Peters and Mrs. Hubbard Bell who supported the roadway naming process.”

Major Walter Peters was Canada’s first black jet fighter pilot and an air force flying instructor from Litchfield, Nova Scotia. Over his distinguished aviation career, Major Peters flew with the Canadian Forces Snowbirds Air Demonstration Team and became the Forces’ first human rights officer, as well as an advisor to the United National Security Council. Major Peters also played a role in the establishment of the Canadian Aviation Safety Board.

“My family and I are thrilled to have dad recognized in this way and in such esteemed company as that of Mabel Hubbard Bell, two aviation pioneers who, through their perseverance and determination in their own way, shaped the industry,” said Shelley Peters, daughter of Mr. Peters. “Dad was a very humble man, but I know he is smiling down on us as his legacy continues to live on through the dedication of Walter Peters Drive.”

Mabel Hubbard Bell was a tireless advocate, encouraging women to educate themselves and effect changes in various areas of society, including health, home industries, women’s suffrage, children’s labor and children’s education, while being a key supporter to her husband, Alexander Graham Bell, and his flight experiments in Baddeck, Nova Scotia. The Government of Canada recently named Mabel Hubbard Bell a person of national historic significance.

“The Halifax Stanfield roadway is truly a fitting honour for Mabel Hubbard Bell. Although Mabel originally arrived in Nova Scotia in 1885 by steamship, she soon envisioned travel by air, subsequently becoming the first woman to invest in the aviation industry and literally paving the way for Canadian aeronautics,” said Sara Grosvenor, great-granddaughter of Mrs. Hubbard Bell and President, Alexander and Mabel Bell Legacy Foundation.

Halifax Regional Municipality unanimously passed the submissions from Halifax Stanfield to name the roadways Water Peters Drive and Mabel Hubbard Drive.

“Halifax Stanfield’s naming of these streets in honour of Mabel Bell and Major Peters is an opportunity to share their fascinating contributions to the history of flight and the advancement of human rights,” said His Worship Mayor Michael Savage, Halifax Regional Municipality.