Henry Hicks, Canadian academic and politician, 16th Premier of Nova Scotia (d. 1990)

Henry Davies Hicks (March 5, 1915 – December 9, 1990) was a distinguished Canadian figure whose career spanned law, politics, and academia. Renowned for his pivotal role in transforming Dalhousie University, Hicks also left a significant mark on Nova Scotia’s political landscape and served at the highest levels of Canadian public life.

Early Life, Education, and Wartime Service

Born in the picturesque town of Bridgetown, Nova Scotia, on March 5, 1915, Henry Davies Hicks was the son of Henry Hicks and Annie Kinney. His early education took place in his hometown before he pursued higher studies, demonstrating a keen intellect and ambition. He matriculated through several prestigious institutions, including Mount Allison University, Dalhousie University, and the venerable Oxford University, laying a robust foundation for his diverse career.

Following his comprehensive legal education, Hicks was admitted to the Nova Scotia bar in 1941, marking the start of his professional life. However, the tumultuous outbreak of World War II called him to serve. He joined the Royal Canadian Artillery, where he rose to the rank of captain, demonstrating leadership and commitment before returning to civilian life with an even broader perspective.

A Rising Political Star in Nova Scotia

Hicks quickly transitioned from military service to the political arena, fueled by a desire to contribute to his home province. In 1945, he successfully ran for a seat in the Nova Scotia House of Assembly as a Liberal representative for Annapolis County. His capabilities were soon recognized, leading to his appointment in 1949 as Nova Scotia's first-ever Minister of Education. He held this pioneering role until 1954 under the government of Premier Angus Lewis Macdonald, establishing foundational policies that would shape the province's educational system for years to come. This period marked a significant stride in the modernization of Nova Scotia's public services, with Hicks at the forefront.

Premier of Nova Scotia: A Challenging Tenure

The political landscape shifted dramatically with the passing of Premier Macdonald. Henry Davies Hicks then entered the fiercely contested race for the Liberal party leadership against the interim leader and then-Premier, Harold Connolly. This particular leadership contest in Nova Scotia was notably fraught with divisions along religious lines, a sensitive aspect of Canadian political history. Protestant factions within the party largely united behind Hicks, leading to his victory over Connolly, a Roman Catholic. Assuming the premiership, Hicks faced the monumental task of uniting a deeply fractured party. Despite his efforts, the divisions proved too wide to bridge, and his government ultimately suffered defeat in the 1956 election at the hands of Robert Stanfield's ascendant Progressive Conservatives. Following this electoral setback, Hicks resigned as Leader of the Opposition in 1960, choosing to embark on a new chapter.

Transforming Dalhousie University

Hicks's departure from provincial politics opened the door to what would become one of his most profound and enduring legacies: the transformation of Dalhousie University. In 1960, he took on the role of Dean of Arts and Science at Dalhousie, a prestigious academic institution in Halifax, Nova Scotia. His administrative talents quickly became evident, leading to his promotion to Vice President, and then, in 1963, to the esteemed position of President of the university. He served with unparalleled dedication as President until August 31, 1980.

During his remarkable tenure, Henry Davies Hicks is widely credited with reshaping Dalhousie University. He took what was once affectionately known as a "College By the Sea" and elevated it into a leading national research university, significantly enhancing its academic standing and reputation. His vision spurred an extensive period of growth and modernization. The campus underwent a complete metamorphosis, with numerous new facilities being constructed, existing ones expanded, and strategic acquisitions made across all facets of university life. This included state-of-the-art academic and research buildings, facilities for arts and athletics, and much-needed student housing. His impact was so profound that in September 2002, the Henry Hicks Academic Administration Building was proudly named in his honor, a lasting tribute to his monumental contributions.

Service to Canada: The Order of Canada and Senate Appointment

Beyond his provincial and academic achievements, Henry Davies Hicks was recognized for his broader contributions to Canadian society. In 1970, he was distinguished as a Companion of the Order of Canada, one of the nation's highest civilian honors, acknowledging his lifetime of service and leadership. Further cementing his place in national public life, on April 27, 1972, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau appointed Hicks to the esteemed Senate of Canada. Serving as a Senator until his retirement on his 75th birthday, March 5, 1990, he continued to contribute his vast experience and wisdom to national policy-making, offering a seasoned perspective from both political and academic spheres.

Personal Life and Tragic End

Henry Davies Hicks’s personal life saw both joy and sorrow. In 1949, he married Pauline Banks, with whom he had four children: Catherine, Henry, John, and Francess. Pauline sadly passed away on February 22, 1964. A year later, in 1965, he found love again and married Gene Morrison, who passed away in January 1988. In 1988, he married for a third time to Rosalie Comeau. Tragically, their union was cut short. On the afternoon of December 9, 1990, while returning to Halifax from the Annapolis Valley, their vehicle was involved in a devastating collision, crossing the center line and striking an oncoming car. Both Henry Davies Hicks and his wife Rosalie were killed in the accident, alongside two of the four passengers in the other vehicle, marking a sudden and somber end to a remarkable life. Interestingly, the British TV presenter Richard Madeley is a distant relative of Hicks, a small footnote connecting a prominent Canadian figure to international media.

Frequently Asked Questions About Henry Davies Hicks

Who was Henry Davies Hicks?

Henry Davies Hicks was a prominent Canadian lawyer, politician, and university administrator from Nova Scotia. He served as Premier of Nova Scotia, Minister of Education, and later as the transformative President of Dalhousie University, as well as a Senator of Canada.

When was Henry Davies Hicks born and when did he pass away?

He was born on March 5, 1915, and tragically passed away on December 9, 1990.

What were his key achievements as Premier of Nova Scotia?

Before becoming Premier, he was Nova Scotia's first Minister of Education (1949-1954). He served as Premier from 1954 to 1956, taking office after a challenging leadership contest, but his government was ultimately defeated in the subsequent election.

How did Henry Davies Hicks impact Dalhousie University?

As President of Dalhousie University from 1963 to 1980, Hicks is credited with transforming it from a regional "College By the Sea" into a leading national research institution, overseeing significant campus expansion and modernization. The Henry Hicks Academic Administration Building is named in his honor.

What national honors did he receive?

He was made a Companion of the Order of Canada in 1970 and was appointed to the Senate of Canada by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau in 1972, serving until his retirement in 1990.

How did Henry Davies Hicks die?

Henry Davies Hicks and his third wife, Rosalie, tragically died in a car accident on December 9, 1990, when their vehicle collided with another car near Halifax.