Barrington Street UPC Hall (1867–1919)
The Union Protection Company (UPC) Hall on Barrington Street served as the official meeting place for the Union Protection Company, a major firefighting and salvage organization in Halifax. The hall was established in 1867, replacing the previous meeting location at the Geldert Building on Prince Street and Bedford Row (now the site of The Old Triangle pub).
Establishment and Purpose
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May 21, 1867: The UPC held its last meeting at the Geldert Building before officially moving to their new hall on Barrington Street.
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Unlike their previous meeting space, which was rented, the UPC owned both the land and building on Barrington Street, giving them long-term stability.
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The hall was used for company meetings, social events, and coordination of fire response and salvage operations.
Union Protection Company Activities
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The UPC was known for property salvage during fires, rather than direct firefighting.
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In 1868, the Union Engine Company attempted to create a band, but the UPC already had a well-established musical group that performed at numerous public events.
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By 1870, the City Council granted Fireward powers to the captains of the Union Engine Company and the Axe Fire Company, ensuring the UPC remained a recognized firefighting entity.
Later Years and Closure
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The UPC remained active through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, continuing to operate from their Barrington Street hall.
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The hall was used until 1919, when the UPC was disbanded, marking the end of one of Halifax’s longest-running fire companies.
The Barrington Street UPC Hall played a key role in Halifax’s fire history, serving as a headquarters for firefighters, salvage crews, and community events for over 50 years.