September 28, 2022
The Royal Nova Scotia Society deeply regrets the passing of Dr. David Sutherland. Dr. Sutherland was an Atlantic Canadian historian who served as a member, president, and Fellow of the Society as well as contributing to the editorial board of the Society’s Journal. Dr. Sutherland’s published obituary is below and available online via the Chronicle Herald.
It is with great sadness that we announce David’s death on July 10, 2022 at the family cottage in Upper Cape, N.B., with his wife and son holding his hands. David was born in Halifax on December 19, 1942, the only child of George and Georgie Sutherland. Having grown up in Shubenacadie and Truro, he went on to graduate from Mount Allison (BA), Dalhousie University (MA) and the University of Toronto (PhD in Canadian history). David joined the faculty at Dalhousie University’s Department of History in 1972 and spent his entire teaching and research career there. His teaching / research specialization was the history of Atlantic Canada, the city building process in 19th century Halifax, and patterns of race relations in 19th century Halifax, which resulted in a number of publications. He also supervised four doctoral and 15 M.A. dissertations, along with numerous honours theses. He was a member, president, and Fellow of the Royal Nova Scotia Historical Society [RNSHS], member of the editorial board of the Journal of the RNSHS and the Canadian Historical Review, Dalhousie Society for the History of Medicine, and the Tantramar Heritage Trust (New Brunswick). Manuscript reviewer for publications such as Acadiensis, Canadian Historical Review, and Journal of Canadian Studies. Former service and consultation with the Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada; and the CBC. Member for Nova Scotia of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (2008-2013); member and Sunday School teacher of St Andrew’s United Church, Halifax. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Betty (Elizabeth Cragg); his much-loved son, Iain Alexander Cragg, Halifax; his wonderful cats, Abraham and Isaac (Abe ‘n Ike); and several cousins, nephews, and nieces. He was predeceased by his parents and a number of cousins. There will be no visitation. A celebration of life service will be held in St. Andrew’s United Church, 6036 Coburg Road (corner of Robie St), Halifax on September 30th at 2 p.m. Masks are recommended. In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s memory can be made to the Royal Nova Scotia Historical Society, St. Andrew’s United Church Benevolent Fund, PEDVAC, or to a charity of your choice.