William Hall

William Hall, VC (1827–1904)

Role: Sailor, Royal Navy
Service: Crimean War
Heritage: Black Nova Scotian

🛶 Early Life
William Hall was born in Horton, Nova Scotia, in 1827, into a family with African Nova Scotian roots. He grew up learning the ways of the sea and developed exceptional skills as a sailor, showing courage, discipline, and leadership from a young age.

⚔️ Crimean War Heroism
Hall joined the Royal Navy and served aboard HMS Shannon. During the attack on the fortress at Lucknow, India (1857), he displayed extraordinary bravery:

• Led a boat crew under heavy enemy fire

• Helped secure positions and protect his fellow sailors

• His courage and skill helped ensure the mission’s success

For his actions, Hall became the first Black person, first Nova Scotian, and first Canadian sailor to receive the Victoria Cross, the British Empire’s highest military honour. 🏅

🕊️ Life After Service
After returning to Nova Scotia, Hall continued to serve as a respected member of his community. Despite racial barriers of the time, he remained a symbol of courage, dedication, and leadership.

🌟 Legacy
William Hall’s heroism is remembered across Canada:

• Over 150 years later, his Victoria Cross inspires Canadians of all backgrounds

• Honoured in monuments, schools, and museums

• A symbol of Black Canadian courage, resilience, and service

❤️ MMCM Remembers
At MMCM, we honour William Hall for his bravery on the seas and his role as a trailblazer for Black Canadians in military service. His story reminds cadets that courage and dedication transcend race and that heroes come in every background.