04/09/2026
Great memories!
This Throwback Thursday, we’re taking a look back at a well-known local landmark — The House of Hay in Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia.
Founded in 1958 by Don “Bun” Hay, The House of Hay became a familiar and welcoming stop for many in our community. Bun, a veteran of the Second World War who served with the North Nova Scotia Highlanders, began his journey in the restaurant business alongside his wife Betty when they purchased a small ice cream parlour on Inglis Street, Truro, in 1946. They renamed it The Sugar Bowl — a name that would soon become the foundation of something much bigger.
By the early 1960s, The Sugar Bowl introduced Kentucky Fried Chicken, marking a turning point as the family business continued to grow. While Bun expanded operations beyond Truro, Betty took the reins locally, continuing to run The Sugar Bowl for several years.
Bun’s vision eventually led to the creation of more than 30 restaurants, including additional House of Hay locations and KFC franchises across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Maine. The Shubenacadie location remained a staple in the community for years, later operated by his son Bill near what is now Mastodon Ridge, Stewiacke. Following the move of KFC to Stewiacke, the original site of The House of Hay eventually became what is now known as Fundy Veterinarians Ltd.— a place that continues to serve the community in its own meaningful way.
Though the buildings may change, the memories made within them remain a lasting part of our community’s story.
