In Pictures: Artifacts seized from Halifax-area home put on display

HALIFAX – RCMP officers spent hours cataloging a trove of artifacts and antiques uncovered this week at a Halifax area home.

The investigation into John Tillman, the man accused of stealing more than 1,000 items — from archives, libraries, universities, etc. — began last summer, when police pulled him over on an unrelated matter.

Police found an 18th century letter from Gen. James Wolfe, believed to have been taken from Dalhousie University Library, in the vehicle Tillman was driving. He’s also alleged to have at one time possessed a rare copy of Charles Darwin’s “On the Origin of Species.”

Other articles found in the stash include paintings, prints, vintage weaponry and a suit of armour

That led officers to his Fall River, N.S. home and other locations linked to him. Police charged him on Thurday, in Halifax provincial court, with possession of stolen property. But, the Crown said there could be more charges coming.

Tillman is due in court again on Feb. 27.

Cole Harbour RCMP put some of the allegedly stolen treasures on display Friday morning. Mounties will have to investigate the origin of many of the items on case-by-case basis. 

“There’s so many items, and many of them require their own investigations” – Sgt. Colin Maclean said. 

Here’s a look at some of the items found at Tillman’s home. 

(Video: Ross Lord)