Although Canada as a nation was a mere 35 years old in 1902, much had been accomplished. The boundary now stretched from sea to sea to sea. A railway linked the east and west coasts with a ribbon of steel. Each year, the previously unsettled interior was attracting thousands of immigrants. The election of a new federal government in 1896 heralded a forward looking era in politics. Its eloquent leader, Sir Wilfrid Laurier (1841–1919) embodied a national sense of optimism with his famous proclamation: The twentieth century belongs to Canada.

Traces of the same buoyant mood were also found locally. This occured, despite the fact that the region was in transition. The Golden Age of Sail was nearing its end. For the previous fifty years much of the prosperity and wealth generated, came from shipbuilding and coastal trade. With the demise of sail, new enterprises had to be found to complement those remaining.

The early years of the new century also witnessed far reaching advances in technology. In Sackville, the telegraph had already arrived; while telephone service and electricity were still in their infancy. On Dec. 12, 1901, Marconi received the first radio transmission (in Morse Code) at Signal Hill, Newfoundland; a foretaste of what might lie ahead. It was against this backdrop of local and national issues, that a meeting was called for the office of Senator Josiah Wood on Dec. 18, 1901.

The choice of location was no coincidence. Josiah Wood was then at the peak of a long and distinguished career. Lawyer, businessman, shipbuilder and politician; he had excelled in each capacity. Elected as a Conservative MP in the Liberal stronghold of Westmorland in 1882; he was reelected in 1887 and 1891. On August 5, 1895, Wood resigned his seat, to accept an appointment to the Senate. Although a strong Conservative, he had always enjoyed a measure of bipartisan support.

Of the 16 prominent citizens who attended this meeting; (one suspects on his invitation and insistence) equal representation was granted to both Grits and Tories. J.L. Black was asked to take the chair, with Charles D. Stewart agreeing to act as secretary. Obviously such a meeting did not materialize out of thin air. It had been under consideration for some time.

Within the Sackville community, the beginning of the century was also noteworthy for political turmoil. At issue was incorporation of the area as a town, and the concept cut across traditional party lines. Those of optimistic bent came out in favour of the idea; while the pessimists were dead set against it. Beyond this deep divide, both local newspapers, the Conservative Post and Liberal Tribune, were eventually to be supporters. Since their respective editors A.H. McCready and C.C. Avard never agreed on any issue, public or private, such consensus was nothing short of a miracle.

Briefly stated, opposition centered around the small population base of the immediate area; and the fear that incorporation would mean crippling taxation. Those in favour pointed to the crying need for civic improvements such as water and sewage facilities, fire protection and policing. Furthermore, incorporation, it was argued; would encourage new industry to locate here.

During 1901 it became obvious to those who favoured town status that some vehicle was needed, not only to help carry incorporation; but to act as a forum where both political parties might work together for the common good. Such an organization, it was suggested, might be a Board of Trade and this was the purpose of the meeting called by Senator Wood. The stage was set, and an agenda carefully orchestrated.

A guest, in the person of William S. Fisher of Saint John was invited to speak. In 1888 Fisher, along with a partner R.B. Emerson, had purchased one of Sackvilles two foundries. During the intervening years the new owners had turned the company (which became known as Enterprise Foundry) around. It was, by this time, a major employer in the area. Fisher was also an active member of the Saint John Board of Trade. As a successful businessman, he was able to explain how a Board of Trade might enhance the economic future of a community such as Sackville. He pointed out that it was literally a businessmans parliament and would help Sackville to grow in business, enterprise and wealth.

No time was lost. A motion was moved by W.C. Milner and seconded by F.B. Black: that this meeting proceed to organize an association to be known as a Board of Trade. The only speaker was Senator Wood who urged its acceptance and the motion passed unanimously. In quick succession, two committees were struck. One to draw up a constitution and by laws and the other to wait upon the community to enlist new members.

All too soon, as it turned out, the question of incorporation was put to the test. A meeting of rate payers was held at Fords Hall on Feb. 20, 1902. Since this event was covered in a Flashback last August 14th; Ill merely record the result. The pessimists carried the day and incorporation was defeated by a vote of 151 to 108.

Why such a result? One reason was undoubtedly over confidence on the part of the supporters of incorporation. Further, the new Sackville Board of Trade, did not have sufficient time to make a difference. Also, some voters stayed home and did not vote. With deeply held political allegiances, they could not bring themselves to take a leap of faith.

As W.S. Gilbert so aptly expressed it in the then popular operetta Iolanthe: How nature does contrive/That every boy and every gal/Thats born into the world alive/Is either a little Liberal/Or else a little Conserv a tive! This was especially valid in the Sackville of 1902. While obviously disappointed by the results, the optimists were not ready to concede defeat. They regrouped, and debate on the contentious issue continued to rage for another year

Meanwhile, on July 8, 1902 all legal formalities were surmounted and the new Sackville Board of Trade became a body corporate. The first slate of officers makes for interesting reading. President: Senator Josiah Wood, Vice President: F.B. Black, Secretary Treasurer: Charles D. Stewart. This executive was backed up by a Council of eight members: A.B. Copp, Charles Fawcett, W.B. Fawcett, George E. Ford, W.H. Harrison, J.M. Hicks, H.C. Read and James Smith. If nothing else, the executive was a brilliant cross section, not only of talent; but of Sackvilles business and political life. The other charter members, comprised a further extension of the community’s Who’s Who.

Over the next few months the Sackville Board of Trade became a beehive of activity. Heres a list of some of their major accomplishments: Six committees were formed and put to work. They were designed to promote: Business, Agriculture, Railways & Shipping, Good Roads, New Industries and Advertising. The latter was charged with the responsibility of placing our given advantages before the public. A motto — The Educational Centre of the Maritimes was adopted and a letterhead designed. The Board became affiliated with its Maritime counterpart, and sent a delegation to the 1902 regional convention in Sydney.

Once again the incorporation issue caught up with the Board. A second vote on the question was scheduled for Jan. 12, 1903. This time the optimists were well organized and incorporation carried by a majority of 30 votes; 167 in favour to 137 against. Following passage of enabling legislation by the province, a public meeting was held on March 5, 1903 for the purpose of naming a mayor and council.

To no ones surprise Senator Josiah Wood was unanimously elected as Sackvilles first mayor. It had been the wish of many that a slate of pro-incorporation aldermen might also be acclaimed. This did not happen for reasons explained in the earlier Flashback. Thus in the run off election, a total of eleven candidates contested the eight seats. However, the optimists did very well, with seven of their eight candidates being elected. For the record, the aldermen who made up Sackville’s first town council were: Thomas Anderson, Silas Copp, Amasa Dixon, Thomas Estabrooks, Alexander Ford, Frank Harrison, Frederic Ryan and Albert Wry. On Saturday April 2, 1903, the first meeting of the new town council took place. The battle for incorporation was over.

Why this shift in public opinion in the space of a few months? Clearly the supporters of incorporation did a better job of presenting their point of view. In this task, the newly fledged Sackville Board of Trade played an influential role in marshaling public opinion. Without question, the official birthday of the Board, July 8, 1902, was an important milestone on the road to incorporation.

There were also external factors at work. The provincial government of Premier L. J. Tweedie was quietly pushing the move. This is underlined by the fact that no less than seven New Brunswick towns became incorporated in the years from 1903 to 1905. These were, in addition to Sackville: Shediac and St. Andrews, 1903; Sussex and St. George, 1904; Edmundston and Dalhousie in 1905.

During Sackville’s forthcoming centennial year, it is my hope to devote several Flashbacks to highlights of the past century. If you have topics to suggest; or better still, material, photographs or information to share, please get in touch.

Nearly eighty years ago, in 1924, the Mount Allison Board of Regents Grounds Committee concluded that something had to be done to enhance what was then known as the York Street entrance to the Ladies College Park. It was located directly opposite the entry to Lansdowne Street.

A decision was made to seek the advice of Professor Emeritus Dr. John Hammond (1843–1939). This was logical, since Hammond had been involved for years in the field of architecture and design.

At this point in his career, Hammond was enjoying retirement from earlier duties with the Owens Museum of Fine Arts [now Art Gallery] and as Director of the School of Art. Although aged 81, Hammond was still sketching, painting and exhibiting his work. He suggested the erection of two gate posts constructed of red sandstone trimmed with white. The overall design should follow the same stone and style as that of Hart Hall.

The Board approved construction of the gate posts and agreed that they would impart a dignified and academic tone to the entrance. The gate was officially opened on Friday Oct. 3, 1924. Over the years, the Hammond Gate has been a silent witness to much of Mount Allisons 20th century history. Unfortunately, few people who pass through these sentinel posts, are aware of their significance; or for that matter, the importance of the artist who designed them.

All of this should change next weekend Nov. 23 24, 2002, when Sackville will hold a Celebration of John Hammonds Cultural Gifts. Details of these events will be found elsewhere in this issue of the Tribune Post.

One highlight will be an exhibition of paintings by John Hammond at the Owens Art Gallery. The opening of the Sackville Art Associations Annual Members Show will also be held at the same time. This joint opening is appropriate, since Hammond not only served as Honorary President of the SAA; he did much to encourage the development of local art and artists. The featured SAA artist this year will be Joyce Stevenson.

Born in Montreal on April 11th 1843, John Hammond once recalled his earliest childhood memory. The year was 1849, and he was lifted to his fathers shoulders to witness a riot that included the pelting with rotten eggs and stones, of Governor-General Lord Elgins carriage. The day culminated in the burning of the parliament buildings by an angry mob. This crucial event in Canadian history was actually an affirmation of the principle of responsible government. Lord Elgin had courageously accepted the advice of his ministers, in spite of contrary public opinion.

Hammonds childhood was like no other. When nine years of age he began working as a marble cutter with his father. With little formal education, and nothing approaching art training in his early life; he did, however, dream great dreams. Also early on, he demonstrated a passion for travel and adventure.

.In 1866 Hammond volunteered for militia service during the Fenian Raids. Shortly thereafter John and his brother Henry sailed for England. Visits to Londons numerous art galleries and salons reinforced his interest in art. Then, the venturesome brothers set out in search of further exploits; traveling by Clipper ship to take part in the New Zealand gold rush.

Such voyages lasted three to four months. We have no way of knowing whether this long period at sea helped form Hammonds later interest in seascapes, mist and fog. Certainly there would be adequate time to sample the seafaring life and to sketch, on the long route around Cape Horn.

We do know, thanks to the research of the late Dr. George F. G. Stanley, that about this time a pivotal event took place in his life. Hammond was converted to Christianity and became a member of the Plymouth Brethren. Stanley concluded: His religious conviction was permanent and provided an inner serenity that became obvious in his later paintings The landscape was Gods work and in Hammonds hands, each painting was a religious poem in paint.

By 1870 he was back in Canada and in the employ of noted Montreal photographer William Notman (1826–1891). Once again, adventure beckoned and Hammond along with a fellow Notman employee, Benjamin Baltzly, accompanied the Geological Survey of Canada, then engaged in determining a westward route for the Canadian Pacific Railway. The mission of Hammond and Baltzly was to secure accurate illustrations of the physical features of the country and of other objects of interest that may be met with during the exploration.

This trek proved to be a milestone in Hammonds career, as he became totally captivated by the Rocky Mountains. For him: the scenery was so grand and novel that it seemed to lift me out of the gloomy state of mind caused by the difficult and disagreeable passage. There was to be no turning back. This venture confirmed what he had known for sometime. Now in his late twenties; the remainder of John Hammonds life would be devoted to Art.

In 1878 Hammond made another trip destined to have a major impact on his career. This time he traveled eastward, first to New England and then to the Maritimes. Along the way he sketched, painted and accepted occasional commissions. Smitten this time with the mystique and varied moods of the Bay of Fundy, Hammond established an art and photography business in Saint John.

By now, he was being noticed as an artist. His interest in travel continued and he made several trips to Europe during the 1880s. While overseas he had the opportunity to paint and study with greats such as James Whistler (1834–93) in Dordrecht, Holland. He also visited Barbizon, near Paris; home of the famous school of French landscape painters.

In 1893 the Owens Art collection, the legacy of a wealthy Saint John shipbuilder and merchant, John Owens (1790–1867) was transferred to Mount Allison. The complicated negotiations and details of this move plus the building of the splendid Owens Art Gallery have been well told by University historian John G. Reid. It was Reids conclusion that By virtue of acquiring the services of John Hammond, even more than by securing the Owens collection, Mount Allison became a centre of the Fine Arts in the Maritimes and in Canada as a whole.

Proof of Hammonds talent came with the acceptance of his work at the Paris Salon Exhibition, the Royal Academy in London and the National Academy of Design in New York; among other important artistic venues. He made further overseas trips in the period 1899–1901; not just to Europe but also to China and Japan. He was in Canton in 1900 and narrowly escaped death during the Boxer Rebellion. Following his return from Japan he was asked how he managed to communicate, since he was unable to speak the language. He responded that since he was never without a sketch pad; he simply navigated his way by drawing pictures!

Without question Hammond was stimulated by his many and varied foreign travels; however, of equal importance, he had by this time, acquired an influential patron. Sir William Van Horne (1843–1915) is best known as a railway baron and president of the Canadian Pacific Railway. What is not so well known is that Van Horne was himself a painter and collector of Art. He first met Hammond on a visit to Saint John, when he bought one of his marines or seascapes. From then until Van Hornes death in 1915, the two remained close friends.

Since Van Horne was a keen businessman, he immediately spotted a way to harness Hammonds talent. Why not commission this gifted artist to paint scenes of the CPR route and especially the section through the picturesque Rocky Mountains? John Hammond fitted the job description perfectly. Soon Hammond paintings and murals graced CPR hotels and board rooms; while reproductions were to be found in almost every railway passenger car and train station on the CPR line. Incidentally, it was Van Horne who sponsored Hammond’s trip to the Orient as part of the companys expansion to include trans-Pacific travel by ocean liners.

Dr. George F.G. Stanley once lived in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains. Of Hammonds Mountain Series he wrote: Hammond captured spontaneously the immensity, the timelessness, the vivid contrasts of light and colour and mood the bare rock faces and tumbling water. Mountains like these are meant to be admired [and possibly painted] but never taken for granted.

Each year at convocation, it was Hammonds custom to showcase his work in progress with an open invitation to visit his studio. Heres one contemporary account of the scene: The walls were covered with landscapes and marines of distinguished and harmonious colour. On the easel there was a lovely seascape in grey gold and dull green; full of air and mist so characteristic of the Bay of Fundy. Other subjects included a group of quaint Brittany cottages, in airy blues shot with red; there were also sketches of the Tantramar marshes and aboiteau near Sackville.

We have traveled a long way to answer the question: Whats Behind The Hammond Gate? However, the best solution will be found by participating in the numerous Hammond related activities taking place over the next few days. All are open to the public. Only in this way will you be able to form an opinion of this artist of many talents.

Then, if you are an optimist, mark on your calendar, the date October 03, 2024; the centennial of the Hammond Gate. While researching another column, I stumbled upon a final glimpse of John Hammond. In proposing the erection of the two sandstone pillars, he suggested that a time capsule be inserted in one of them.

He also provided a list of objects for inclusion in a sturdy tin box. The most interesting and unusual was an essay predicting what Sackville would look like in 2024. To whet your appetite, I will reveal only a small portion.

In 2024 all Mount Allison students will arrive by air. They will land at [what appears to be a helicopter landing pad on the site of Fawcett now Convocation Hall.] Students luggage will be transferred by trolley to the residences All buildings will be lighted and heated by electricity. There will be a telephone in every room with a photographic attachment for callers to see and hear each other.

Following this discovery, I immediately telephoned Jeff Lamb, the current Director of Facilities Management, to find out if the time capsule had been uncovered in the summer of 1998, when one of the pillars underwent repairs. He assured me that it was not in the reconstructed pillar; and that the workmen were very careful in their task. This is why you will have to wait until 2024 for a further look within the Hammond Gate. The artist has willed it so.

In 2002 there are few people with personal memories of John Hammond. Dr. Gwen Black relayed to me one story of a conversation that her husband Laurie had with the artist. Hammond was well known as an avid gardener. One day Laurie began a conversation with him by saying: I see you are working in your garden. Back came the reply. Working? I’ve never worked a day in my life. I have always done what I wanted to do, and that’s NOT work. Not a bad epitaph for any artist.

Ever since the end of World War One, on November 11th, 1918, the anniversary of this date has been an occasion for remembering. Each passing day the ranks of those who served in Canadas armed forces during the wars of the 20th century becomes smaller. All too soon, there will be no one left with personal recollections of the major conflicts that plagued the past century.

Now as never before, its time to pause and remember not the glorification of war but its folly; along with both the tragedies and triumphs associated with armed conflict. This is especially true in 2002 when the drums of war are, once more, beating all around us.

For many readers August 19, 1942 may not have any special significance. Yet there are those who will remember that this was the date of the controversial Dieppe Raid by units of the Canadian Armed Forces.

As one commentator so eloquently expressed it on the anniversary of the event last summer: Like a funeral bell tolling in the distance, the name Dieppe still rings hauntingly in Canadian ears, sixty years after one of the nations most notorious military defeats.

Code named Operation Jubilee, the commando raid began in the early hours of that fateful August day. Its objective was to invade the German-held port; destroy military installations and return to England as quickly as possible. The hope was that such action would cause the Germans to withdraw troops from the Russian front, in the expectation that an Allied invasion of the continent was imminent.

The whole operation was supposed to be over in twelve hours. The major assault directed at the Dieppe beach was preceded by landings on either side to neutralize the defenses overlooking the harbour. At least this was the plan. Unfortunately as events were to prove, the entire mission was doomed.

Operation Jubilee ended with tragic results. The Allied troops involved numbered 6,100 of whom roughly 5,000 were Canadian. The raid was supported by eight Allied destroyers and 74 air squadrons; with eight belonging to the Royal Canadian Air Force. When the dust of battle had cleared, 907 Canadians were killed and 1,946 taken prisoner. Hundreds of others suffered wounds, both mental and physical, that would for the rest of their lives, serve as grim reminders of the Raid.

When the casualties from both sides are combined it is estimated that over 1,800 lives were lost in a matter of hours. The Raid was also notable for the high cost of the accompanying air battle. The Royal Air Force lost 106 aircraft; while 13 Royal Canadian Air Force planes were downed.

Ever since August 19, 1942, military historians and strategists have debated the pros and cons of the Dieppe Raid. Recent research has laid to rest at least one rumour that persisted for many years. There is no evidence to support the claim that the Germans had gained prior knowledge of the Raid.

What can be said with validity, is that Operation Jubilee was both badly planned and executed. The strength of the well placed German defences was underestimated. The Canadian soldiers found themselves in an impossible situation from which there was little escape. Some strategists have suggested that Dieppe taught valuable lessons that made possible the successful invasion of Normandy two years later. If nothing else, the Allied Command was shown how not to launch an assault from the sea.

There was tragedy to be found on land and sea and in the air at Dieppe. But were there any triumphs? For certain, courage and valor were demonstrated in abundance. The seeming failure of Operation Jubilee had nothing to do with lack of bravery. It is worth noting that two Canadians earned the Victoria Cross at Dieppe. This, the Commonwealths highest award for valor, went to Lieutenant Colonel C. C. Merritt and to Reverend John Weir Foote, a chaplain with the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry.

Merritt was in charge of a bridge crossing during the withdrawal. Walking calmly into the enemy fire, he led party after party across the bridge by the sheer force of his example. Merritt commanded a vigorous rearguard action which allowed many of his soldiers to successfully escape. He was subsequently wounded and taken as a prisoner of war.

Padre Foote was the first member of the Canadian Chaplaincy Service to be awarded the Victoria Cross. Through eight hours of battle he continually exposed himself to intense fire to help move the injured to an aid post, saving many lives by his gallant efforts. When the opportunity to withdraw came, he climbed from the landing craft, and walked to the enemy position to be taken prisoner. For the next three years he ministered to Canadian prisoners of war.

While the story of these two Victoria Cross winners was destined to become well known; there were countless other acts of valor displayed on that grey August day. The bravery under fire of the hundreds of ordinary foot soldiers must not be forgotten. A comment by American Admiral Chester Nimitz about another famous battle of World War Two — Iwo Jimo — is equally applicable to the Canadians who served at Dieppe. Among all of them, uncommon valor was a common virtue.

One last statistic. When the invasion of the continent finally materialized, it was preceded by the stongest bombardment that could be mustered by the Allied navy and air force. In 1944 the total loss of life was one-third that of Dieppes, among three times as many soldiers.

The Canadian sacrifices at Dieppe are still remembered by the people who live in this French seaport. Last August a group of Canadian veterans was warmly welcomed to mark the anniversary of the Raid. During the ceremonies, it was pointed out, that for centuries, Normandy and Canada have had close historical ties. These may be traced to the 17th century and the natives of Dieppe (known as Dieppois) who were numbered among the early settlers of New France.

Part of the ceremony took place in the Square du Canada, where a monument marks the historical ties mentioned above. On the wall behind, is a plaque that commemorates the Dieppe Raid. It reads in translation:

On the 19th August, 1942 on the beaches of Dieppe our Canadian cousins marked with their blood the road to our final liberation foretelling their victorious return on September 1, 1944

The last date was a reference to the fact that two years later, units of the Canadian Army liberated Dieppe. This day too, will always be remembered by the Dieppois

.And now a contemporary footnote. One highlight of the recent Royal Tour of New Brunswick was the official opening by Queen Elizabeth II of the new terminal building at the Greater Moncton International Airport. Of significance, is the fact that the airport is located in the town of Dieppe. Originally known as Leger Corner; it became a village in 1946 and was renamed Dieppe in honour of the Canadian servicemen who fell in the 1942 Raid. In 1952 the New Brunswick Dieppe was incorporated as a town and, along with the Queen, is celebrating its Jubilee in 2002.

The first airport was a landing field established in the 1920s. During World War Two hundreds of British, Australian, New Zealand and Canadian airmen were trained here under the Commonwealth Air Training Plan. On your next visit to the new Terminal in Dieppe, check out the memorial plaque which summarizes some of Greater Monctons aeronautical history.

A century ago, a promising Sackville enterprise was hailed by C.C. Avard, the editor of the Tribune, as one of the town’s leading industries.

In 2002, this business is largely forgotten; except possibly by those who live in the vicinity where it was located. The firm produced a commodity that was destined to become as well known as either an Enterprise or Fawcett stove. During its brief time span, contracts worth thousands of dollars were fulfilled.

By now, some readers may have guessed that this is a reference to the Sackville Freestone Company which once operated a sandstone quarry on a 20 acre lot, between York and Charlotte Streets.

It all began in the mid 1890s when Charles Pickard accidentally stumbled upon an outcropping of reddish sandstone in a pasture on his farm. Later investigation revealed a rich deposit of marketable stone. The Pickard quarry was formally launched in 1898.

One of its first acts was to send samples of distinctive red sandstone to prospective clients. Three years later, on June 4, 1901, the quarry was incorporated as the Sackville Freestone Company with Pickard as the major shareholder.

Meanwhile, the quarry caught the attention of an important trade journal: The Canadian Architect And Builder. It reported: The stone extends through 15 to 20 acres of Mr. Pickards farm at a depth of 3 to 15 feet below the surface. The beds which lie in a horizontal position are from 4 to 9 feet thick The stone is a rich shade of light or reddish brown, which combines nicely with brick and will give a building a bright clean appearance. The stone has been pronounced first class in quality. Later studies by the engineering faculty at McGill University confirmed that the stone had a crushing strength of 9,130 pounds to the square inch.

During the summer of 1899, 15,000 cubic feet of stone was quarried in a matter of 50 days. Some of this was destined for a new mens residence on the Mount Allison campus. But equally significant, this contract was the beginning of a close relationship between the quarry and the university; a link that continues to this day.

During the first few years of the quarrys operation, teams of horses hauled stone to the railway. A stable for twelve teams and a blacksmith shop were erected on the property. Soon however, the construction of a spur rail line to the Tormentine branch of the Intercolonial Railway, rendered this operation redundant.

Pickard was described as a shrewd businessman, and this was evident in his creative marketing strategies and regular updating of the machinery used in quarrying and finishing stone. The quarry was equipped with two electrical gang saws, two steam drills and four steam derricks. During the period between 1903 and 1909 company shares rose in value from $50. to $100. Pickard also found time to serve a term (1908–1910) as Sackvilles second mayor.

The early twentieth century was marked by a rapid expansion in the erection of business and public buildings in all parts of Canada. In this era, stone was the preferred building material; especially for banks and post offices. Pickard was determined, despite stiff competition from quarries in other parts of Canada and the United States, to get his fair share.

His success can be measured in part, by examples of contracts obtained by the Sackville Freestone Company. These included buildings on the Mount Allison campus; as well as others in Moncton, Saint John, Truro, Wolfville, and Halifax. Further afield, local stone was to be found in major building projects in Ottawa, Toronto and Waterloo in Ontario. Precut stone for fireplaces was also marketed and shipped as far west as Vancouver.

These achievements notwithstanding, all was not clear sailing for the Sackville company. The quarry was in operation for only six months each year. Hikes in freight rates made it difficult to compete in the major markets of central Canada.

Then, to make matters worse, Charles Pickard was critically injured in an industrial accident. Ironically, he was struck in the head by one of the labour saving devices installed in the quarry; a swinging attachment connected to one of the derricks. He lost the sight in one eye and never fully recovered. Charles Pickard died Dec. 30., 1912. This event signaled the beginning of the end for an industry that had shown so much promise a decade earlier.

Prior to his death, the quarry was producing between 700 and 800 tons of stone per day. A major deal worth a million dollars to supply stone for the breakwater at the new Cape Tormentine ferry terminal had just been signed. Although this contract was fulfilled, World War One intervened and a new series of problems emerged. Wages tripled, skilled labour was in short supply and taxes on the railway spur line were increased. By 1917 the firm was near bankruptcy.

These difficulties were compounded by a major shift in technology at the end of the war. Building stone, despite its assets and attractiveness, was being replaced by cement. During the 1920s it became abundantly clear that the company was no longer a viable operation.

In 1929 the Mount Allison Board of Regents struck a committee of two professors: Dr. H. W. MacKiel and Dr. Frank West to investigate the possibility of taking ownership of the facility. As a result of a positive report submitted on February 27, 1930; the quarry was purchased by the university. History was thus made; as Mount Allison became one of a very few universities to own its own quarry. Pickard stone was to continue enhancing campus buildings.

In the years that followed 1930, the quarry was to achieve fame quite unrelated to distinctive red sandstone. Slowly but surely, it became firmly fixed in the folklore of the university. For several generations of students it was; as one graduate delicately confessed: The place to go for a romantic stroll. He requested and was granted, anonymity!

This unofficial impact of the quarry was probably best explained in the reminiscences of the late Dr. Donald MacLaughlin who vividly recalled this piece of real estate from the perspective of a student and later as Dean of Men; longtime Professor of Chemistry and Dean of Arts and Science.

In his memoirs entitled Mount Allison So Fair, Dr. MacLaughlin observed: There are no rules in heaven or on earth that will prevent boy seeing girl. The old stone quarry might just as well be called the diamond quarry. On another occasion he was even more explicit. When asked for his opinion on residence life in more recent times; he quipped Oh, you can have your co-ed residences but we had the quarry

During this era, the quarry was also used for other more conventional purposes; as it became a favourite location for artists to sketch. A faithful Flashback reader, Mrs. Phyllis Rourke of Cap Rouge, Qubec; whose grandfather was an employee of the quarry recalled: It was a landmark of my first twenty years in Sackville. Although I was not allowed to swim in the quarry, my brother and all the neighbourhood boys learned to swim there. I remember well skating and clearing the ice, finding great strawberry patches in the summer and many a picnic on its banks.

In the 1970s, sandstone from Mount Allisons quarry was to make headlines in Toronto. The Ontario government was undertaking restorative work on the extension to the Provincial Parliament buildings. Replacement sandstone was required to match the original stone. This was subsequently supplied by Mount Allison and a plaque marking this contribution was affixed to the building.

The Mount Allison Record of the day commented: Alumni with a yen for the old days and whose memories of the quarry are sharp may place their hands on Sackville stone and receive a charge of nostalgia that only the old quarry could produce.

More recently, during 1998–99, a group of Mount Allison students enrolled in Geography 4521, a course taught by David Bruce, Director of the Rural and Small Towns Project, collaborated to develop a plan to revitalize the quarry as a public park. Those involved were: Stefan Hoddinott, Matt Jonah-Sheridan, Mike Bernier, Jeff Thompson and Paddy Kennedy.

They visualized the quarry as an extension of the present Sackville Waterfowl Park. Not only would this showcase the location; it would provide an interesting destination for eco-tourism. Because of its unique micro-climate, some rare species of plants are to be found within the quarry. They also suggested a trail around the pond, observation decks, two foot bridges, benches and a kiosk depicting the history and ecology of the area.

It was their hope that something might de done with the proposal to mark the Millennium in 2000. Since this did not happen, why not a revival of this creative concept to mark the centennial of Sackville in 2003?

The church is easy to find. Along the highway leading to Westcock there is an eye catching sign: St Ann’s Anglican Church Turn Right. For nearly two centuries parishioners have been turning right to this church, once featured in a poem by Sir Charles G.D. Roberts (1860–1943).

It reads: As I came over Westcock Hill/My heart was full of tears, /Under the summers pomp I heard/The spending of the years /I wandered down to Westcock Church,/The old grey church in the wood./Kneeling, I heard my fathers voice/In that hushed solitude The reference was to the poets father, Rev. G.G. Roberts, rector of St Ann’s from 1860 to 1874.

Entitled Westcock Hill the poem is dated in Roberts handwriting October 14, 1934. The poet had previously made a nostalgic trip to boyhood haunts in the Tantramar region, and this poem was one result. Although he lived but a few years in the rectory or old parsonage on the other side of Westcock Hill, Roberts was never to forget his roots. Dozens of poems, numerous short stories and several novels bear the distinct imprint of the Tantramar.

By 1934, the church was well over a century old. Visiting it in 2002, one is immediately struck by a sense of permanence and stability. Constructed by skilled workmen, some of whom were in the shipbuilding trade, this church was built to last. Recently, I had an opportunity to ascend to the topmost attic of St. Ann’s, for a look at the details of construction. It was built of native pine and spruce; its hand hewn timbers carefully morticed. The beams and rafters illustrated in the accompanying photos speak for themselves. Note the use of wooden nails, sometimes called trunnels. These hand cut pegs have one special advantage. They allow joints to move with atmospheric changes. Once the basic structure of the building is uncovered, its easy to understand why St. Ann’s has withstood such historic storms as the Saxby Gale of 1869 and the numerous 20th century hurricanes.

The original specifications for the Church may be found in the early records of St. Ann’s, housed in the Mount Allison University Archives. Signed by W. Botsford and D. Starr, the detailed instructions make for interesting reading 185 years later. Here are a few examples: The frame must be in every respect substantial The building is to be enclosed with spruce boards and shingled. Before shingling, all joints are to be covered with birch bark The floor of the church, chancel and gallery is to be covered in tongued and grooved boards of good clear spruce stuff. And so it goes on for several pages; as every item of construction is clearly specified for the benefit of the builders.

The church was constructed in 1817 on land donated by William Botsford (1763–1864), longtime MLA for Westmorland and Speaker of the House of Assembly. (See Flashback for July 03.) It follows the neoclassical design popular in the early nineteenth century. The belfry with its lantern shaped design is of particular interest. A small stained glass window depicting a lily, the symbol of St. Ann, is regrettably no longer visible on the inside. It was placed in memory of parishioners Clayton and Sadie Milner. The main side windows are of clear blown glass, designed to allow the maximum amount of light to flood the sanctuary. The east window in the chancel and the main west window are of stained glass. The latter was given in memory of Rev. C.R. Wiggins who served nearly a half century as rector — from 1880 to 1927.

We have some idea of the original interior of the church, before it was altered in the 1870s; thanks to a report to the Diocesan Church Society by Rev. G.G. Roberts.

Two major changes had taken place with the closure of the gallery and removal of the original triple deck pulpit. The rector wrote: With the full consent of pewholders and by means of liberal contributions both in money and work from those in the neighborhood, the interior of the building has been rearranged. The old gallery and pews have been taken out and two blocks of open and free seats have been substituted, leaving a broad centre aisle. The [new pews] are neatly stained and varnished and the rest of the interior painted.

He went on: A partition has been removed by which about ten feet has been added to the interior of the church. A porch eleven feet square has been added to the west end. The porch has an open roof, ceiled with pine, stained and varnished. The chancel end has been vastly improved by a new prayer desk, altar rails, carpets and especially by a handsome East Window, the last mentioned being the gift of personal friends outside the Parish.

While architectural purists might object to these changes, one cannot help but catch the enthusiasm of the rector. Essentially, he was describing the St.Ann’s that we know today. Fortunately, one aspect of the interior, the barrel-vaulted ceiling, was not changed. It continues to account for the excellent acoustic effects found at St. Ann’s.

During the early colonial period it was not uncommon for Anglican churches to wait for several years before being consecrated. Although built the year following the death of Rev. Charles Inglis (1734–1816) the first Bishop of Nova Scotia; whose diocese included New Brunswick, St Ann’s was not consecrated until September 23, 1826. The ceremony was one of the first duties of the third Bishop, Rev. John Inglis (1777–1850), son of Bishop Charles Inglis. The sentence of consecration signed by John, Nova Scotia has been carefully preserved in the St. Ann’s Archives. One reason for the delay was that the second Bishop, Rev. Robert Stanser (1760–1828), was often absent from his diocese and was eventually forced to resign due to ill health.

It’s impossible to do justice to the history of St. Ann’s in a single column. Hopefully, before too long, the complete story of this, the oldest standing church building within the Tantramar region, will be written. There is no more worthy subject than the architectural and ecclesiastical gem that is the St. Ann’s of 2002. Only a very few other Maritime church buildings can claim 185 years of continuous service.

September 22nd 2002, is destined to be a red letter day in the long history of St Ann’s congregation. The anniversary will be marked at the 7 PM service with the rector Rev. Kevin Stockall officiating. The guest preacher will be a former rector Canon Richard McConnell. The choir of the Parish of Rothesay will join the choir of the Parish of Sackville for this service.

Anniversaries should inspire a forward as well as a backward look. At present, historic St.Ann’s is planning to construct a new and much needed Church Hall. With the precedent of the original builders of 1817 and the inspiration of the liberal contributions of money and work of the 1870s in mind, it is to be expected that this project will soon be underway. Preliminary architectural drawings are encouraging, as plans call for a building that will compliment rather than overshadow the old grey church in the wood.

The anniversary spending of the years takes us back to the poem Westcock Hill by Sir Charles G. D. Roberts. It has always been a source of amazement that such an important personality in Canadian literature is so little known or recognized, in the region which had such a profound impact on his work.

A native son and the grandson of Rev. C.F. Wiggins, John Wiggins Fisher (1912–1981), a master of prose in his own right, often commented on this oddity. He once wrote: As a boy Roberts knew this country, knew the anger of the winds and the strength of the tides. He saw them knock and slap down the dykes. [He also knew the marshes] miles upon miles of gossiping green grass, whipped by the winds, seething like foam. Changing colours in the sky tint the cold waters grey, brown and sometimes almost purple. Gentle one minute, cold and calculating the next but, as regular as the clock, the Tantramar River is both fat and lean [From here Roberts] put a song on the lips of his countrymen he was the Father of Canadian Literature, the bard of Tantramar.

Were John Fisher with us today, he would most certainly be calling, yet again, for recognition of Sir Charles G.D. Roberts in Westcock. It is not inconceivable that he might suggest setting aside some space in the proposed St. Ann’s Church Hall as a reminder. Not only might this spotlight Roberts ties to the area; it could be the starting point for a tour of the countryside he immortalized in prose and verse. There are so many ways to mark the spending of the years!

As the last holiday of the summer, the Labour Day weekend has become an important dividing point in our yearly routine. Vacations are for the most part over; students in schools and universities are embarking on a new term and there is just a hint of autumn in the air. Its also a time of nostalgia and remembrance for those whose school days are long since behind them.

During the summer just past, I had an opportunity to meet through the Internet and also personally, some former students of Sackvilles Holy Rosary School. Many readers will recall the white frame two storey building on Salem Street which was destroyed in a spectacular fire on Saturday May 26, 2001. These contacts encouraged me to devote a column to reminiscences of the school.

The roots of Roman Catholicism in Sackville may be traced back to the French colonial period. The first church was erected in the village of Tintamarre. This building was destroyed in 1755 during the expulsion of the Acadians. The chalice and bell were saved and buried for safekeeping by parishioners. Years later they were recovered. The chalice was taken to Memramcook where it may be found in St. Anne’s Chapel connected with St. Thomas Church. Unfortunately, the bell was badly cracked and had to be melted and recast.

Well over a century later, in 1885 a second church was opened in Middle Sackville on land donated by Jim and Abner Smith. The new Holy Rosary Church was opened on October 25th, 1885 with the celebration of High Mass. Following later construction of the belfry, the famous Tintamarre bell, now recast, was dedicated. It was destined to peal forth for the next 74 years; summoning worshippers to Holy Rosary Church.

The first priest was Father Alfred Roy of the Congregation of Saint Croix. In 1902 the Bishop of Saint John created the parish of Sackville with missions at Melrose and Port Elgin. The Holy Cross Fathers served the parish until 1907, after which it was administered by secular clergy until the arrival of the Dominican Fathers in 1927. Because of its central location, the Dominicans made Middle Sackville their headquarters for the Maritimes. The first Dominican pastor was Rev. Marc Cot, who served from 1928 to 1936.

St. Vincent’s Church on Charlotte Street in Sackville, was constructed in 1928 and consecrated on Oct. 14th of that year. A short time later, a monastery was built adjacent to St. Vincents Church. The Dominican Fathers then moved from Middle Sackville to occupy their new quarters in 1930. On April 12, 1975 the two parishes were joined together as the Parish of Holy Rosary St. Vincents.

The first Roman Catholic school in Sackville was officially opened on August 24, 1947 by Archbishop Norbert Robichaud of Moncton. The ceremony was held outdoors on a bright summer day. The Sackville Citizens Band provided special music for some 300 spectators, and according to one who was present, an air of festivity prevailed.

On a more serious note, the official part of the proceedings; the blessing of the school, was conducted by Archbishop Robichaud, who spoke in both English and French. The local parish priest Father Louis LaFontaine and Father Clarence Leger of Moncton assisted in the service.

In his remarks Archbishop Robichaud lauded the local parish for its effort in building such a fine school. In particular, he praised the members of St. Vincents and Holy Rosary for their leadership in the financial campaign. Because of the long history of the latter, it was decided to name the new school Holy Rosary.

Not only was a large portion of the funding for the new school raised locally, construction of the edifice was under the direction of a parishioner, Levi Legere of Sackville. Generous assistance was also provided by the Dominican Brothers. One interesting approach was taken in fund raising. Parishioners were encouraged to provide donations for the desks required by both teachers and students. A plaque was then attached to each, indicating the name of the donor.

The building consisted of eight classrooms each with a seating capacity of 30 students. Fluorescent lighting was used throughout. The basement level housed a kitchen, recreation hall, canteen, lavatories, cloakrooms and a furnace room. The school was staffed by Sisters from the Order of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, which had already been active in the Sackville area since 1934.

When the school opened in September 1947, with Sister Marie DesLourdes as Principal, not all rooms were utilized, as instruction was limited to the first six grades. Later, classes for junior and senior high school students were added. Both Roman Catholic as well as Protestant students were in attendance. The latter were offered the special dispensation of arriving at 9:30 rather than 9:00. By this time, compulsory catechism classes were over. The number of Protestant children is not known; however, their numbers were described as being a very small proportion of the total enrolment. One former student (a Protestant) confided that he was sent to Holy Rosary because the nuns were strict disciplinarians.

In an age not noted for an interest in language study, it was significant that the school followed the provincial bilingual curriculum, with a corresponding emphasis on the French language. Another former student recalled: If you had to go to the washroom or wanted to open a window or sharpen your pencil, you had to ask in French otherwise you would be ignored.

Although the school closed in the early 1970s, memories of its quarter century as a parochial school are still vivid. Not surprisingly, many reminiscences centered around the strict code of discipline. In the present day, corporal punishment is not only frowned upon; it is illegal. Not so in the 1950s and 60s. For many male students, a strapping was a badge of honour or at the very least, a rite of passage. A similar viewpoint prevailed in the public school sector. One graduate of Holy Rosary recalled, possibly with a slight tinge of pride: I got the strap six times in one year, mostly for talking in line at recess.

It would be entirely wrong to assume that all memories of Holy Rosary School were negative. Clearly, there was an esprit de corps among the students that is still recalled with pleasure. Several remembered with great nostalgia the annual Christmas concerts in which everyone played a part. For such events the recreation hall in the basement was always jam packed.

Still others mentioned the emphasis on sports and outdoor activities. Michael Milner recalled: The Brothers from the nearby monastery would freeze over a patch of ice to make a slide in the winter. Kids brought things to slide on, everything from sheets of cardboard to toboggans. I remember that enameled stove side panels were really effective. There were lots of those around, with both the Enterprise and Fawcett Foundries going full tilt. The stove panels really flew and if you couldnt stop before you hit the big spruce trees in the driveway, disaster awaited! One incident of bloody injury lurks in my memory. It resulted in a quick trip to the Sackville Hospital for one of the dare devils.

Holy Rosary School also had a number of distinctive programs. One example was the provision of hot lunches. Obviously some of the students came from less than wealthy homes, making a hot meal an important act of charity on the part of the Sisters of the Sacred Heart. As one student recalled Im sure that for some, this was their main meal of the day The smell of Campbells vegetable soup still triggers memories of Holy Rosary School.

Ironically, just two years prior to the destruction of the Holy Rosary School building by fire in 2001, Holy Rosary Church in Middle Sackville was forced to close. Shortly afterward the building was demolished. The altar stone was removed at the Farewell Mass and given to the Diocese of Moncton for safekeeping. The Stations of the Cross, which dated from 1885, were placed in St. Vincents Church, to maintain a connection with the past. The historic Tintamarre Bell may be found at the Acadian Museum, Universit de Moncton.

One final memory. So long as they are alive, graduates and former students of Holy Rosary School will never forget the picture of: … a jolly nun, dressed in flowing habit, standing on the front steps of Holy Rosary School; ringing an oversized hand bell summoning us to our classes.

Long-time readers will know that the region covered by this column conforms to the provincial constituency of Tantramar. Over the years, there has been an understandable emphasis on its three major centres of population — Sackville, Port Elgin and Dorchester.

Although a review of past columns reveals that smaller communities have not been neglected; I am taking seriously a suggestion made by one reader: … that rural communities be featured from time to time. Today the spotlight is on an interesting section of the old parish of Botsford. Later, other areas will have their turn.

One of the best ways to appreciate the Tormentine peninsula is to take a circular tour starting with Highway #960 outside Port Elgin at Bayside. This road follows the coast until Cape Tormentine is reached. There a switch can be made to the Trans Canada Highway for the return trip through Malden, Melrose and Timber River to the Highway #960 entrance on the outskirts of Port Elgin. The same itinerary may be followed in reverse; however, from the historical standpoint, the shore line was settled first.

A map published in 1862 indicates that by then the area from Bayside though to the Oulton Road was thickly populated. The remaining shore line through to Cape Spear and Cape Tormentine was more sparsely settled. There were three reasons for this early settlement: the potential of the lobster fishery in Baie Verte and beyond; the availability of fertile marshland and the opportunity for lumbering in the heavily forested interior of the peninsula.

The family names then represented are still to be found in this part of New Brunswick: Allen, Campbell, Davis, Dobson, Oulton, Polley, Read, Rayworth and Ward were among those represented. But by far the two most numerous were members of the Allen and Rayworth families. The latter was sometimes spelled Raworth.

The common Allen ancestor was one Benjamin Allen (1735–1823). Of Scottish origin, he was part of the Loyalist migration from New England to New Brunswick in 1783. When it is realized that he had eight sons, all of whom settled in the immediate area, it is easy to see why the Allens soon outnumbered their neighbours. There is also an interesting connection between the Allen and Rayworth families.

John Rayworth emigrated from England in 1798; settling first in Prince Edward Island. Dissatisfied with the system of landholding which then prevailed on the Island, he crossed the Northumberland Strait. Sailing up Baie Verte he landed on the property of Ephraim Allen, son of Benjamin Allen. Part of this landholding is still known as Ephraims Island. In the early 20th century the island was owned by Fred Magee of Port Elgin. Presently, it is being developed as a summer cottage subdivision. Upon Ephraim Allens advice Rayworth made application for a grant of land and settled at Upper Cape.

The 1862 map also explains why those who lived on both the Shore and Emigrant Roads were comparatively self sufficient. Many families were involved in mixed farming, lumbering and the fishery. The interior of the peninsula was drained by five brooks; all named for early settlers: Matts [for Matthew Allen], Wards, Rayworths, Barrys and Oultons. The waters of these streams were harnessed to operate both saw and grist mills. Later on, there were several smaller portable saw mills which could be moved from place to place. Logging was a major activity each winter, and in contrast to todays preoccupation with clear cutting, only mature trees were harvested; while logs were hauled to the mills by teams of horses. Many of the present day homes along the shores of Baie Verte were built from lumber supplied by these saw mills.

Largely as the result of the efforts of a pioneer missionary, Edward Wood of Baie Verte, most of the early residents were converted to Methodism. It was not uncommon for Wood to walk along the shore to Cape Tormentine on a Saturday. He would return on Sunday, conducting two or three services along the way. The first Methodist Church at Upper Cape was erected in 1838. It was replaced in 1892 by a new building, which still stands. No longer in use as a church, it is now a private home.

The heyday of the Upper Cape community was probably the five decades that followed 1890. The depression of the 1930s; changes in farming, the forestry and fishery, spelled the death knell for the former self sufficient family farm. Today, corporate farming and tourism are the major industries, while the shore line is fast becoming dotted with summer cottages. Many of the old ancestral homes are still occupied by relatives of the first settlers, or by people from away. The peace and quiet of 2002 obscures what was once a vibrant rural community.

Following the end of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815, emigration from the British Isles to New Brunswick increased dramatically. Included in this migration were a number of Irish settlers who received grants of land along what became locally known as the Emigrant Road. Now part of Highway #16, it stretched in a straight line westward to Timber River. These settlers emigrated to New Brunswick during the mid 1820s. This placed them in the vanguard of the later and more numerous Irish Migration, which resulted from the famous Potato Famine of the 1840s. Botsford Parish historian, W. M. Burns has pointed out: It may be truthfully said that the Emigrant Road was the cradle of the Irish race in New Brunswick.

One point is beyond debate — descendants of these industrious settlers were later to fulfill positions of of prominence in business, industry, politics, the church and the professional life of the province. Over time two post offices; Emigrant Road and Emigrant Settlement were established; however, their similarity led to confusion in the mails.

The last named was the first to be changed. Its popular designation Savagetown for the Savage family who were among the first settlers, was discarded in favour of Melrose in 1892. A decade later, the Emigrant Road post office became Malden. The choice of these two place names is open to conjecture. As the Canadian postal service expanded, literally hundreds of new place names were added to the map. Sometimes the choice was made locally, but often the decision was handed down by a bureaucrat in Ottawa. In this case, it is worth noting that there are two adjacent towns in Massachusetts named Melrose and Malden. The local naming occurred during the the first out-migration from this part of New Brunswick to New England; and this may well have been a factor in the selection of these two names.

It is unfortunate that the Irish migration to this region has been overshadowed by the earlier influx of New England Planter and Yorkshire settlers. Even when viewed from the provincial perspective, the important Emigrant Road Settlement has often been overshadowed by the much larger Irish migration to Saint John and the Miramichi. Why did these people abandon County Cork for an uncertain life in what was then described as a wilderness of woods?

As with other examples of migration, there were many reasons for leaving Ireland. Overpopulation, with too many people for too little land; the persecution of Roman Catholics; even the prohibition of the Irish language and music were contributing factors. In addition, following 1815, there was the availability of cheap transportation across the Atlantic. Some families who settled on the Emigrant Road came by way of Newfoundland and Prince Edward Island; while the majority were lured by cheap passages offered by Maritime sailing ships returning home with empty holds; after unloading cargoes of lumber at ports in Ireland and England.

Known in the lumber trade as human ballast; the trauma of an often stormy Atlantic crossing was to linger long in the memory of these Irish immigrants. Further, had they known or understood the backbreaking work involved in clearing virgin forest, a number might well have reconsidered their choice. In some instances, just prior to their departure from the old sod a traditional wake was held. Both those leaving, and the relatives left behind, knew full well they would never see each other again.

Despite all these obstacles, the settlers on the Emigrant Road persevered. Upon their arrival on this side of the Atlantic, their luck actually changed for the better. In March 1820 an act was passed by the New Brunswick legislature to provide for and encourage the settlement of emigrants. In each county discreet individuals were appointed to work for and with industrious and enterprising emigrants and assist in their settlement.

Fortunately for these Irish immigrants, one of those persons was the MLA for Westmorland and Speaker of the House of Assembly, William Botsford (1773–1864). The Parish of Botsford had been set apart and named for him in 1815; consequently, he took more than a passing interest in helping settlers on the Emigrant Road. For years afterward, the name of William Botsford was revered among the Irish immigrants and their descendants.

Meanwhile, land was cleared, timber for export sold and later there came saw and gristmills, so that within a generation, the Emigrant Road was noted for its small, but largely self sufficient farms. Sadly, a century and more later, many of these farms, especially those on marginal land, have reverted to forest. Over the years, several families were forced to leave the settlement, with a number finding employment in Moncton.

A measure of their legacy can be seen in the many Irish surnames, found not only in Malden, Melrose and Moncton; but scattered throughout southeastern New Brunswick. Heres a roll call of some of more familiar: Barry, Burke, Corrigan, Hartnett, Hayes, Hickey, Holland, Joyce, Kennedy, Lane, Mahoney, McCarthy, Murphy, Noonan, Reilley, Roach, Savage, Stack, Strang and Sullivan. The current mayor of Moncton, Brian Murphy, is a direct descendant of Dennis Murphy, one of the first settlers on the Emigrant Road.

Another part of their legacy may be found in a long-standing devotion to their religious faith. In 1826 a log church was built on the farm of John Roach. Later, in 1838 this was replaced by a wooden building, erected directly opposite the present church in Melrose. Exactly a century ago, in 1902, the magnificent St. Bartholomews Church was erected. It was consecrated in 1903 by Rev. Arthur Meahan D.D., then of Saint John. Father Meahan lies buried in the church cemetery.

Rev. Edward Savage, a native of the parish, and longtime pastor of St. Bernard’s Church, Moncton, was responsible for the memorial wrought iron gate to St Bartholomews cemetery. See also the illustration of the striking Celtic Cross which will continue to perpetuate the memory of the cradle of the Irish race in New Brunswick.

Some time ago a question was raised in this column: In 2003, the town of Sackville will be celebrating its centennial. Will we be ready? In recent weeks there has been some evidence that both the town and various community organizations are gearing up for this once in a lifetime opportunity.

By way of example, a most imaginative endeavour was outlined in the announcement by the Town, the Sackville Garden Club and Andersons Greenhouse to create Sackville In Bloom for 2003. One major reason why the town has become a destination for tourists is its physical appearance. This is evident in many ways; from the hanging flower pots down town, to the care and maintainence of public parks. The Sackville In Bloom project is one in which every homeowner and business can participate. Since 2003 is now a matter of months, not years, away the time has come for all local organizations to decide how they will mark the centennial.

In the final countdown to 2003, its also important to take a historical look at the events of 1902–03 and the debate concerning incorporation. Further enlightenment may also be found in the towns celebration of its Fiftieth Anniversary in 1953. But first, lets go back to the Sackville of 1902–03. In the beginning, public opinion was strongly divided on the question of incorporation. Two votes were required before ratepayers gave approval to the idea.

The first attempt occurred in 1902. At a public meeting held in Fords Hall on Feb. 20th, strong opposition to incorporation was expressed. Charles Fawcett spoke for many when he declared that Sackville has too few people and the [… population is] too much scattered to justify incorporation. Along with several others he pointed to the crippling taxation that would inevitably follow.

A more positive note was struck by Thomas Estabrooks. Speaking in support, he cited fire protection and the provision of improved water and sewage facilities as priority requirements for Sackville. Estabrooks argued that a town council could make better arrangements to deal with such matters than otherwise would be the case. He also noted that the projected move would give the town a commercial importance and thereby assist future development. At the end of the meeting incorporation was rejected by a vote of 151 to 108.

For the remainder of 1902 the debate continued. A second vote was held Jan. 12 1903. By this time, a number of ratepayers had been won over to the idea, as incorporation was carried by a majority of 30 votes: 167 in favour to 137 against. Following the passage of enabling legislation by the province, a public meeting was held on Mar. 5, 1903 for the purpose of nominating a mayor and council.

There was unanimity that Senator Josiah Wood (1843–1927) be elected mayor by acclamation. One of the first two graduates of Mount Allison, Wood had a well-established reputation as a lawyer, businessman, shipbuilder and politician. In the latter capacity he served as MP for Westmorland from 1882 to 1895, when he accepted an appointment to the Senate. Later, he was to round out a lengthy career in public life as the lieutenant-governor of New Brunswick from 1912 to 1917.

Although an active member of the Conservative party, it was a compliment to Wood that he enjoyed strong bi-partisan support. Always an advocate of local causes, he was at the time, one of the most respected individuals in the community. Although primarily a man of business, he had many extra-curricularinterests. One of these was music and he was reputedly a master flute player. Josiah Wood and his wife Laura S. Trueman frequently entertained at their stately home Cranewood, which still stands on East Main Street. Ive been told that an invitation to one of the Woods soires was much sought after and Sackvilles social event of the year. During 2003 an effort should be made to salute Hon. Josiah Wood, not only as the first mayor; but as one of Sackvilles most outstanding citizens.

In speeches quoted by the press, its clear that Wood along with several other leading citizens, hoped that a slate of eight aldermen (as councillors were then called) might be elected by acclamation. Toward this objective eight names were put forward: Captain T.E. Anderson, Silas Copp, Amasa Dixon, Thomas Estabrooks, Alexander Ford, John Johnston, Frederic Ryan and Albert E. Wry.

This action immediately prompts the question: Why? Were there not others in the community willing to offer as candidates? Two reasons may explain this unusual action. The movement in favour of incorporation crossed party lines, attracting supporters from both Liberal and Conservative parties; accordingly, there was a desire to keep politics out of the municipal arena. Incorporation even earned the approval of both A. H. MacCready and C.C. Avard, publishers of the two rival newspapers, the Post and the Tribune. This was a remarkable feat, when it is remembered that these two individuals were seldom in agreement on any topic! But more important was the fact that in March 1903, the province was in the midst of a provincial election. Political leaders on both sides obviously wanted to concentrate their efforts on the latter contest.

Although the plan was put forward with the best of intentions, it was soon to be challenged. Rumors and counter-rumors spread throughout the community. It was suggested by some that the projected slate was overloaded with Grits. Various interest groups were soon heard from. It was noted that the major businesses and industries were all accounted for, but there was no one representing labour.

Still others asked more pointedly: Where did each of the candidates stand on the temperance issue? Implied in the latter question was the fact that some of the proposed candidates were known to be soft on the use of alcohol. This may be difficult to comprehend in the 21st century. Not so in 1903. Those opposed to liquor in any form constituted a formidable lobby, and the temperance movement soon found some nominees.

When the council election was held, a total of eleven candidates offered for the eight seats. To the original list Charles E. Carter, Robert Duncan, Sydney W. Hunton and Frank A. Harrison were added. In the interim John Johnston had dropped out. The bi-partisan slate did very well, as seven of its original members were elected with Frederic Ryan, Amasa Dixon, Albert E. Wry and Silas Copp leading the polls with 309, 296, 292, 281 votes respectively. Rounding out the first council were: Frank A. Harrison, Alexander Ford, Thomas Anderson and Thomas Estabrooks.

On Saturday afternoon April 2, 1903 the first meeting of the newly elected town council was held. Committees to deal with Finance, By-laws, Streets and Lighting, Fire Protection and Police were named; while the division of the town into wards was handed over to the committee on streets for a recommendation. The town of Sackville was in business.

Lets now fast forward a half century to 1953. At the first meeting in January of the newly elected town council, Mayor Herbert A. Beale gave notice that two special committees would be struck. One was to organize a ceremony to mark the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The other was commissioned to develop plans for the 50th Anniversary of the town.

When the latter committee was formed, Alderman Dr. Lloyd Duchemin, who represented the North Ward, was named chair. The committee was designed to provide as wide a representation as possible with 15 members from different businesses and organizations. Included were: Max Crawford, Lloyd White, Cedric Gass, John Raworth, Herman Lund, John Tapley, Chester Estabrooks, Donald Rogers, Fred Rand, George Chambers, Ned Cummins, Harold Melanson, James Mann and Mayor Herbert A. Beale.

As long time residents of Sackville will know, Dr. Duchemin, who lives on Salem Street, retired from Mount Allison in 1974 following a distinguished academic career. During the course of a conversation with him regarding the events of 1953, I probed for the reason why the 50th Anniversary celebrations were remembered by so many as extremely successful. One lasting impression remained with him: The program as developed by the committee had the strong support of the citizens, and that was the secret of its success. During the course of the year Dr. Duchemin resigned, in order to accept an overseas sabbatical leave. Only two other members of the 50th Anniversary Committee survive: Lloyd Bud White and George Chambers.

While celebratory events were held throughout the year, an ambitious program was drafted for Aug. 5, 6 and 7, 1953. Street parades, dances, band concerts, boat races, baseball games, an amateur show and fireworks were all considered and most were carried out. A special edition of the Sackville Tribune Post was scheduled to coincide with the anniversary.

The opening day, Wednesday Aug 5, was declared a civic holiday by town council. It was to begin with a grand street parade; to be followed by boat racing on Silver Lake in the afternoon, a fly past by aircraft from the Chatham air base and to end the day, fireworks. Unfortunately, the worst fears of towns people, guests and performers alike materialized. Wednesday began with a gentle rain and the parade actually started. Then the rain became heavy although intermittent. Finally, the heavens opened and a downpour ensued. The remaining events of the day had to cancelled or rescheduled on Thursday and Friday.

Sackvilles anniversary was well covered by CBC Radio. Their commentator, Doug How, who grew up in Dorchester, was already renowned as an outstanding on-the-spot reporter. What follows are his impressions, as recorded for the CBC Radio program Canadian Chronicle. Not everything went perfectly. The weather for opening day was profoundly unkind. It rained all day. They didnt know whether to hold the parade or not; however, it did go on. One feature was a grotesque, spiderish, instrument of mobility, a 1903 Oldsmobile. Somebody had to help it up the hill and everybody got a laugh The fly past consisted of two small propellor driven aircraft barely visible in the clouds.

The mere presence of a 1903 Oldsmobile in the parade is intriguing fifty years later. Are there any readers who have memories or pictures of this vintage automobile? More to the point will there be a 1953 Oldsmobile in the 2003 parade? Any volunteers?

The weather was more cooperative on the remaining two days and some rained-out events were rescheduled. Other interesting attractions on Thursday did not depend on the weather. The major industries of the town including the Enterprise Foundry and Enamel and Heating Products Limited held successful Open Houses. Thursday evening concluded with an Amateur Night in Charles Fawcett Memorial Hall.

The Rotary Clubs Childrens Parade was the featured event on Friday and the celebrations concluded with the postponed fireworks. The air force redeemed itself when an impressive fly past of 24 aircraft, including Furies, Harvards and Avengers, took place. Sackvilles 50th anniversary receded into history on a high note. It is to be hoped that the same may be said for its forthcoming centennial!

Two years ago during the first week of August, the Tantramar region was a-buzz with a celebration known as Yorkshire 2000. One highlight of this event, marking the 225th anniversary of the arrival of Yorkshire settlers, was The Great Big Mosquito Show.

A production of the Marshfire Peoples Theatre Company, the play was written and directed by Sackville’s David Fancy. Some 75 local actors, choristers and dancers supported by a creative stage crew played to sellout audiences. For all readers who missed the show, one question arises: Why should the pesky mosquito be featured as part of the Yorkshire celebrations?

For those who live here, it will not take long to come up with the answer. Its provided on any humid day or night on the Tantramar. Just recently, I was asssured by one local resident that the summer of 2002 just had to be one of the worst for those (xx censored xx) mosquitoes. He then went on to provide the title for todays column by concluding: This is the season for mosquito madness on the marsh.

I cannot confirm his claim that in 2002 we are witnessing the worst season for mosquitoes on the marsh. What can be confirmed by examining the historical record is that this insect has been singled out for comment by visitors to the region from the French colonial period onward.

It was an unknown French explorer who named a point of land that projects into Chignecto Bay Cap des Maringouins. The latter is an old French word for small mosquito like insects. Known today as Cape Maringouin, the name made its first appearance on a map drawn by Jean-Baptiste-Louis Franquelin in 1686. By 1704 the feature was referred to on English maps as Cape Mosquito. In 1779 J.F.W. Desbarres revived the earlier French designation calling it Cape Marangouin.

One of the first English references to the muskettoes [sic] comes from the pen of New Englander Dr. Robert Hale (1702–1767) who made a trading voyage to the Tantramar aboard the schooner Cupid in the summer of 1731. He wrote: There is an abundance of muskeetoes here so that on a calm day, tis almost imposssible to live especially among the trees.

The Yorkshire settlers were great letter writers and several kept diaries. To no ones surprise the mosquito was frequently mentioned in letters back home. Heres two examples: Writing in 1774 Luke Harrison did not waste words. We do not like this country, nor ever shall. The mosquitoes are a terrible plague you may think they cannot hurt, but if you do you are mistaken. They will swell your legs and hands they grow worse every year and they bite the English the worst. People of other nationalities will take little comfort from his conclusion!

Another Yorkshire settler James Metcalf Jr. was more optomistic and came up with a remedy for the plague. In August 1772 he wrote: There is a little flye called the miskeeto that bites like a midge. The trobelsome miskeeto can be kept out of the house by smoke pots, and in any case, they will disappear when the wild meadow grass is cut. It is worth noting that there was a reason for Metclfes upbeat tone. He was writing to his fiance, Ann Gill, and obviously did not want to discourage her from emigrating. The following year long before the wild meadow grass was cut Ann Gill and James Metcalf were married by the chaplain at Fort Cumberland. Even the pesky mosquito could not overcome true love.

Recently, while researching and writing the two columns on the Botsford dynasty, I came across an interesting comment about todays topic. Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Gubbins spent six years in New Brunswick as the senior British Army officer. One of his duties was to inspect the militia units throughout the colony and this took him to the Tantramar in July 1811. Fortunately, he kept a detailed diary of his travels which was discovered and subsequently published in 1980 by Professor Howard Temperley. The latter was a visiting professor at UNB from the University of East Anglia, in Norwich England.

Gubbins wrote: I was hospitably received by Mr. Amos Botsford (1744–1812), speaker of the House of Assembly. He is a man of extensive property. In view of his windows [are] some 800 acres of marshland well secured by strong dykes from the sea The mosquitoes were here more troublesome than I had ever found them to be in any other part of the world. Since Gubbins had been posted to many parts of the far flung British Empire, he might well have advanced the claim that the humid summer of 1811 was the worst for mosquito madness on the marsh.

One final on location report from another part of the Tantramar region. Bayfield, west of Cape Tormentine marks the career of Henry Wolsey Bayfield (1795–1885). It was he who was responsible for surveying much of the coastline of New Brunswick. During the summers of 1842 and 1843 Bayfield was charting the Northumberland Strait coastline of present day Westmorland County, and it is thought that his survey party landed within the bounds of the community which bears his name. In any event, Bayfield sailed along this coastline on several occasions, making the place name especially appropriate. During the 1980s the Champlain Society of Canada published a two volume set of Bayfields journals which describe in detail the eastern Canadian and Great Lakes coastline the setting for his lifes major work. Since such surveys took place during the mosquito season Bayfield recorded numerous accounts of the mosquito plague and his attempts to rid ourselves of them.

According to Bayfield the most effective remedy was the one suggested earlier by James Metcalf. Following his landing on the coastline, possibly near present day Bayfield, he wrote: We found a good place for the tents, with plenty of firewood and lots of mosquitoes, whom we smoked unmeRCIfully; an operation that would be more agreeable if it could be effected without smoking ourselves at the same time.

Aside from smoke with its obvious disadvantages, there are several other contemporary remedies. Some people have turned, with apparent success, to various herbs for relief. Lemon balm grown in abundance is one example; another is jewel weed, while citronella, a tropical grass is cited by others. Then there are a number of commercial products available in pressurized spray cans, while others come in plastic bottles. The one most often recommended is Muskol, invented by Charles Coll, a native of Pictou County, Nova Scotia. Possibly the best advice on the subject was given by the American College of Physicans. Its answer is use common sense if you are going into a wooded area wearing shorts and a T-shirt, you are asking for trouble. Wear long pants, long sleeves and loose, light coloured clothing.

Another aspect of mosquito lore suggests that the insects are the result of unrighteous behaviour. A Nova Scotian columnist, the late Norman Creighton once quoted an interesting example dating from early days on the Tantramar. According to his reaearch, the summer of 1795 was one of the worst on record in this area. So plentiful were the mosquitoes that local residents called upon a visiting Jesuit priest for help.

Creighton described the scene as follows: … having all things prepared, [the priest] took a basin of holy water, a staff with a little brush, and having on his white robe, went about the marshes with about thirty following in procession. A young lad going before him, bearing the holy water, sprinkled the marshes on each side, a little bell jingling at the same time, and all singing the words ora pro nobis. They wheeled and turned Thus they passed and repassed across the Tantramar marshes, the mosquitoes all the while rising before them, only to light behind them. Then the priest announced that it was impossible to prevail over the mosquitoes, so great were the sins of the people of the Tantramar.

It is apparent that all sorts of remedies from smoke pots to chemicals to herbal remedies to divine intervention have been tried and to a greater or lesser degree have been found wanting. From at least the 17th century onward, settlers on the Tantramar have been battling mosquitoes. Even the well known and much publicized Tantramar winds provide but temporary relief.

For my money, I am prepared to leave the last word to Norman Creighton. In concluding his column on How to Keep Mosquitoes At Bay he wrote: Whether you use Muskol, orange peel, face nets, or take a stiff slug of Jamaica rum, remember that like every other year, this one promises to be a vintage year for mosquitoes!