Dalhousie University Archives & Special Collections honors the memory of Charles A. Armour, former Dalhousie University Archivist, who passed away on December 4th, 2010 at the age of 76.
Born in Taylor Village, New Brunswick, Charles graduated with a B.Sc. from Mount Allison University in 1956; a M.Sc. from Dalhousie in 1957; and a Ph.D. from University College, London in 1960. The chance discovery of a trunk containing historical logbooks and other shipping-related records in his family home in Taylor Village changed the direction of his academic career from Chemistry professor to archivist and historical researcher. In 1970, he was appointed Dalhousie University’s first University Archivist, a position he held until his retirement in 1999.
During his 29 year tenure, Charles built the foundation of the Dalhousie University Archives’ current holdings of Nova Scotia shipping, business, labour, medical and cultural records, as well as acquiring significant accruals of university records. He served as Regional Director of the National Archival Appraisal Board and also contributed many articles and two books to his life-long scholarly passion for ships, sailors and shipbuilding in the Maritimes. He is survived by his wife, Hedy and his son, Charles. A memorial gathering is planned for next spring. Donations may be made to Tantramar Heritage Trust, QEII Foundation PATH Clinic, Alzheimer Society of NS, or a charity of your choice.