Item

Robert S. Gardiner, St. Andrews Land Company

Pilot
Aug 12/1886
Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Gardiner registered at Argyll

[March 1/1888--Robert Gardiner to B. R. Stevenson MS3-Y-117: “Telegram from Mr. Osburn informs me that you now consider yourself retained by our syndicate. Therefore I enclose you draft of act desired to be passed by present legislature, and it is sent to you that as attorney for the Co you may proceed immediately to secure its passage. Sir Leonard Tilley informs us that the law requires 4 weeks previous publication in the “Royal Gazette” before presenting to the legislature, compliance with that rule would throw it over into next session, but it is suggested that a “suspension of the rules” is not an uncommon thing or difficult to bring about, and such seems to be our only course now.
            It is suggested that any names of residents can be ? as corporators that you select, and who will resign when we wish, and you can also if desired include any of the following names: J. Emory Hoar, Brookline Mass; Eugene F. Fay, ibid; Rosco A. Cobb, ibid; Albert D. S. Bell, Newton, Mass; Robert Gardiner, ibid; Chas. V. Lord, Bangor, Maine; Abraham Avery, Boston, Mass; Daniel B. Claflin, Newton, Mass.
            There are other members of the syndicate but it is for certain reason not desirable to use these names. And it is for your decision whether the names of many Americans will interfere with the chance of its going through under a “suspension of the rules.”
            The enclosed has been gone over very carefully by an attorney and others here and is pronounced satisfactory. If in your judgment any alterations and additions are necessary I will thank you to first inform me, that such changes may be considered here.
            Please acknowledge receipt, and give me your opinion of the practicability of putting it thro’.
            I will add that we consider it of the utmost importance to act promptly, else a similar move may be made by outside parties. Please use enclosed cipher for correspondence with Mr. McGraw, Mr. Fay (The Treasurer) or myself.]

Pilot
March 15/1888
Application for Legislation
Editorial titled “The Boom”:
The American Syndicate, of which Mr. Robert S. Gardiner of Boston, is chairman, have organized a company to be called The Chamcook Water Company, and as will appear by notice in our advertising column, application will be made, at the present session of the House of Assembly, for an Act of Incorporation. The residents of the town and parish of SA, have by a numerously signed petition, prayed for the passage of said act, and have asked for the insertion of the following provision therein, viz., That the land purchased by the said company or taken by them in pursuance of the powers such Act may contain, for the purposes of the said company, and the pipes, conduits and service connections used by the said company for conducting water, shall be forever exempt from taxation.
            This action of the people is most commendable, not so much on account of the concession they propose to give, but rather as showing the sprit in which they are prepared to meet the gentlemen who have already invested considerable capital in the parish and are prepared to invest a much larger amount in the improvement of the property already acquired by them, and that in a direction that will add to the prosperity of St. Andrews as well as that of the residents in neighboring sections of our county. As an illustration of what the introduction of capital will do for places not having a tithe of the advantages possessed by SA, we mention Bar Harbor in the neighboring State of Maine, which a few years since was almost unheard of outside of the state.”

Pilot
April 12/1888
Gardiner’s speech in Stevenson Hall. B. R. Stevenson the Company’s Counsel. See photocopy and below.
            “In compliance with public notice given by R. S. Gardiner, Esq., chairman of the American syndicate operating in lands in St. Andrews and vicinity, the citizens of St. Andrews assembled in Stevenson hall on Thursday evening last, for the purpose of hearing a statement of the aims and objects of the syndicate. The door of the hall was opened at 7:30 o’clock, in a few minutes thereafter every seat was occupied as well as the standing room in the gangways. At eight o’clock the proceedings were commenced by the election of Geo f. Stickney, Esq., chairman, and F. Howard Grimmer, sec’y. Mr. Gardiner then took the floor and was listened to with the closest attention. He said amongst other things, I feel I hardly need an introduction to a St. Andrews audience. Nine years ago I heard of your town as a restful place, came here with my family every summer since. I am familiar with your wharves, your fish, know where the largest and most fish are to be caught, particularly when one fails to catch them I propose to outline the plans and purposes of the association of Americans who propose to do something for your town, amongst whom are Daniel A. Claflin, Mr. Cram, Mr. Lord, Mr. Fay and others. They all thought St. Andrews was an extremely pleasant place. Mr. Cram had but very little passenger traffic over the railway to SA, road was in bad condition, he was afraid to go to his directors and ask them to expend money upon it unless he could show them reasonable prospect of increased traffic. People of your town did not know our objects. Mr. Whitlock, Mr. Geo. Mowatt, Dr. Parker and others said, if your object is to benefit the town and not a land speculation, we are willing to help you. Sir Leonard Tilley have us free and full advice, as also did Mr. J. Emery Hoar. There is not one copper invested in this undertaking based upon the selection of St. Andrews as a railway terminus. I don’t know if such a thing is projected. We are not by any means philanthropic in our notions, we hope to make some money out of our venture. No man, woman or child at present residing in St. Andrews has any pecuniary interest in the association unless it may be Judge Stevenson as our counsel. There is no probability or possibility of Mr. Osburn making anything out of it, he has done all he could to assist us without the hope of a reward. Having obtained lands we propose to erect thereon, cottages of modern American style, and supply them with water and light.
            The taxpayers of the town insisted in placing in the Act incorporating “The Chamcook Water Company,” a clause binding us to commence the work within three years, and complete it in five years. Now we hope to have the water from Chamcook Lake into St. Andrews by September of this year (Applause). Now as to the question of lighting, we hope to run in connection with the water works, the electric light. (Applause)
One thing I may frankly state, we are not going to build hotels, other people will come and do it. We are extending our numbers, and have got in with us Mr. Flanders, passenger agent Boston and Maine railroad; Mr. J. B. Coyle, president of the International Steamship Co.; Mr. Connors, of the Boston and Fall River, and Old Colony road; so you see we will have an unbroken line by rail or water from St. Andrews to New York. The transportation companies disseminate advertising matter, reaching a large number, fully 1,000,000 circulars, etc., put in the hands of people who patronize summer resorts. Up to the present time it takes from twenty-four to thirty hours by rail between Boston and SA; this is prohibitory. If our plans are carried out you will at no distant day see standing at your railway depot every evening, a Pullman car that left Boston same morning. We ask the cooperation of the people of SA, having that our success will be assured. We asked Mr. Osburn if it was possible to get Indian Point, some 55 acres of land, 10 of which were between the race course and tide water. We would make in it a park say of ten acres, which would be a breathing place and resort, such a place as you much have before you ask people to your town, people who will come to spend their money with you. No man in the syndicate is known as a speculator. We don’t want to hold the land for a railway terminus, we will guarantee as expenditure of say $5,000 during the year, and should the Canada Pacific Railway company require it for a terminus within the next three years, we will come under bonds to surrender it to them, upon payment to us of the amount of cash we have actually expended thereon. Mr. Gardiner then resumed his seat amid loud applause.”

Pilot
may 10/1888
The St. Andrews Land Co., and Chamcook Water Co. met at the office of Hon. B. R. Stevenson, last Monday afternoon, and perfected their organization. the following officers were elected for each company: Sir S. L. Tilley, president; Robert S. Gardiner, vice-president, Eugene F. Fay, secretary treasurer and the above with the following named gentlemen, directors: Abraham Avery, Daniel B. Claflin, Roscoe A. Cobb, Frank W. Cram, Charles V. Lord, C. F. Bragg, D. J. Flanders, J. Emery Hoar, A. D.S. Bell,, George L. Connor, J. b. Coyle, F. E. Boothby, of this number Messrs. Tilley, Gardiner, Fay, Avery, Claflin, Cobb, Cram, Flanders and Boothby were present as was also Judge Stevenson, the legal adviser of the company. the party were also accompanied by Mr. Frank H. Taylor, a distinguished artist and writer who since his stay in town has been busily engaged in preparing photographs and sketches for future use in the interest of the town and company. the party during their stay made their home in the Pullman Buffalo Car Nyanqa, Mr. Cram also having his private car. After dinner the party left Monday evening by special train for Boston.;

Pilot
May 31/1888
The Hotel Gazette—first mention of hay fever and of St. Andrews as tourist destination. “Perfect roads 65 feet wide. See photocopies and below.
            “The diversified summer attractions of the NB have of late years led many seekers after holiday comfort and enjoyment into that picturesque region. Such hotels as have been built and operated with a view to American and Canadian patronage of the better sort in the warm months, have met with flattering success. A point highly favorable for the establishment of another summer hotel and as yet unoccupied by any house or adequate accommodations is SA, a quaint old town just over the border, and only separated from the State of Maine by the St. Croix river. The village is ranged along a fine peninsula near the head of Passamaquoddy Bay, within sight of Eastport and Campobello.
            It is a terminus of the Southern Division of the NB Railway, and a daily landing place of steamers from Eastport or Calais. Its beautiful streets, none of which are less than 65 feet wide, are the delight of summer visitors, while its 1,600 inhabitants, with their stores, churches and livery stables, afford tourists a hearty welcome, and conveniences for necessity or pleasure equal to the large cities.
            A coterie of business men, chiefly residents of Boston, familiar with the peculiar charms of this place and its vicinity, are now investing a large amount of money here in the purchase and development of sightly out-looks in and near the village, into villa sites and parks, and in the introduction of a good system of water works by piping from the Chamcook Lakes in the nearby highlands.
            Assurances are given that the heartiest cooperation will be extended in the erection of a large modern house of approved design, and to any first-class landlord in whose charge it may be placed.
            The volume of traffic to this point in recent seasons, the favourable attitude of the railroad corporations whose lines penetrate this region, and its accessibility from New York Boston, Montreal, Ottawa and Quebec, make its future as a resort an assured success. Before the opening of another season the Canadian Pacific Railway will have placed the leading Canadian cities in direct communication with this point by through train.
            The bold scenery, diversified coast line and perfects roads of the St. Andrews peninsula, the placid land-locked water of Passamaquoddy Bay, and its freedom from fogs and mosquitoes, together with a wonderfully curative effect in cases of hay fever, give St. Andrews its eminence over either of the much vaunted resorts located upon the more immediate coast. Its southern exposure ensures a prolonged season, which is further enhanced by the protection of Chamcook Mountain immediately north of the village.
General Greely, chief of the Weather Bureau, U. S. Signal Service, in a recent magazine article, awards this immediate vicinity the distinction of having the finest and most equable climate upon the entire Atlantic slope.
            A variety of resorts are readily accessible from SA, including Nova Scotia and the storied Evangeline region, and the salmon rivers of NB.
            The large farming area around SA, and good local markets, give assurance of abundant table supplies at low prices. The fish and lobsters of the Passamaquoddy are more than famous. The woodland glades and mountain slopes within a few miles of the town are alive, in the shooting season, with quail and partridge as yet quite unfamiliar with the crack of the sportsman’s gun, while the clear streams and lakes, the latter plentifully stocked with land-locked salmon, offer a pleasant alternative from the water fishing at all times.
            Parties desiring specific information can address Robert S. Gardiner, 67 Federal Street, Boston.”

Pilot
June 21/1888
Second part from St. John Daily Sun
“The St. Andrews Land Company, of which Sir Leonard Tilley is president, R. S. Gardiner of Boston, secretary, and Eugene F. Fay of Boston, treasurer, comprises a coterie of American business men among whom may be named, in addition to these officers, Mr. Claflin of the celebrated mercantile firm of Claflin and Co., Boston; Mr. Lord, banker of Bangor; J. B. Coyle of the International Steamship Co.; Mr. Connors of the Old Colony Railroad; F. E. Boothby of the Maine Central; D. J. Flanders of the Boston and Maine, not forgetting F. W. Cram, general manager of the New Brunswick railway, who has been one of the moving spirits in the affair. The company have already invested a large sum of money in the purchase of sightly look-outs near the village proper, and have in fact secured possession of most of the available property of the plateau adjoining the town, as well as the two large islands in the contiguous waters. Corner lots in the village have not been overlooked, and although operations have been here and there retarded by the anxiety of land owners to obtain considerably more than the present market price for their property, the company have every reason to feel gratified at the manner in which their advances were generally met by the townspeople. Joe’s Point, where the camp was held last year, and much of the land in that vicinity, is now held by the company; and at almost every turn on the sweep around the point, and down past the terrace to Indian Point, the eye of the spectator is greeted with the sign: “Trespassers on these lands will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.” Of course, there have been some purchased by parties not connected with the company. For instance, T. Wedlock, Esq., of Shanghai and formerly of Windsor, N. S. , has bought the McRoberts farm, a mile and a half out from the town and facing the St. Croix river, (this is Strathcroix, Willa Walker’s property) for $3,000, a price far in advance of what was asked for the property before the land boom had assumed its present proportions. Mr. Harding (later C. R. Hosmer lot) of Harding and Smith, Saint John , has purchased for $950 a lot on the Victoria Terrace range of about two and three-quarter acres, and also a part of the Peacock farm at Joe’s point for $5,000. As a proof of the reality of the boom, and that the extravagant stories one hears one the streets of St. Andrews have some foundation in fact, we give the following extracts from the records in the office of the registrar of wills and deeds:

Pilot
June 28/1888
The erection of a mammoth hotel building at Indian Point, is one of the possibilities of the near future. Mr. R. S. Gardiner and Capt. W. B. Sears of Boston arrived here Monday last and are registered at Kennedy’s Hotel.
The St. Andrews Land Co have decided to commence forthwith with the erection of a two-story brick building with basement on the lot corner of Water and Prince Streets. To be used as a club room and offices. The specifications for the erection of the first house on Indian Point are now in the hands of contractors for tenders.

Pilot
Sept 6/1888
Gardiner and Cram catch 48 specked trout at Horse lake

[April 8/1889--Eugene Fay to B. R. Stevenson MS3-Z-199: “I enclose to you deed of Robert S. Gardiner to St. Andrews Land Co., of the Hotel lot. As I understand the matter, you have examined the title, and made it satisfactory to Mr. Gardiner. If so, it will be only necessary I suppose, for you to place this deed upon record without any further expense.  Mr. Gardiner hands us deed David Green to Thomas Hipwell, and Thomas Hipwell to Robert S. Gardiner. Also William H. Herbert to Robert S. Gardiner. Also a discharge mortgage, John Erskine to Robert Ker. Also a deed, Mathilda Street to Robert Ker. These are all the papers in connection with the matter that Mr. Gardiner has, and I presume you have others that you will think desirable to send me in order to make the old deed complete.”]

[April 26/1889--Eugene Fay to B. R. Stevenson MS3-Z-237: “I have your favor, re-enclosing to me assignment of lease of Fort Tipperary, from Sir Leonard to the St. Andrews Land Co. Herewith please find enclosed, deed of Mr. R. S. Gardiner, to the St. Andrews Land Co., of Block L, Bulkley’s Division, with corrections made as you suggested, and, if now satisfactory to you, will you kindly have it put on record.”]

[May 14/1888--Robert Gardiner to B. R. Stevenson MS3-Y-319: “Yours 11th rec’d. MY only object in having nominal consideration shown in “Hipwell” deed is to avoid “booming” the town lot prices until we close all such as Mr. Osburn is working on. The ? as such will be attained by not recording the deed now, although I presume everybody knows the price at which it was sold. It will therefore ? for the present of send Hipwell’s deed to me by mail (registered). The expenses I will hand you next time I see you.”]

Beacon
July 4/1889
June 28 opening ball described. See photocopy and below
"Nobody could find fault with the sample of St. Andrews weather we had today before the strangers who came here on Friday last to attend the opening of our magnificent summer hotel. It was charming, perhaps a trifle warm for the townspeople, but for the visitors from outside, who had emerged from almost torrid heat, it was like the breath of Paradise.
            It was almost 2 o'clock in the afternoon before the whistle of the locomotive at Chamcook indicated the approach of the train bearing the visitors. All the livery stables turned out their conveyances, and everybody else who could get there at all, hustled down to the station. The platform was crowded, as one of the handsomest trains on the N. B. R. rolled into the siding and the passengers began to emerge from the cars. Amongst the first to alight was Lieut. Governor Tilley, who had come straight from the West, connecting with the St. Andrews train at McAdam. His honor looked a little jaded after his long journey, but a few days in the pure St. Andrews air served to recuperate him greatly. Governor E. C. Burleigh, of Maine and staff, consisting of sixteen persons, and Col. Henry M. Sprague; Adjutant-General of Augusta, Col. F. E. Boothby, of Portland, and Col. W. A. R. Boothby, of Waterville, were among the distinguished visitors to follow Sir Leonard. Among others on the station platform were Robert S. Gardiner, vice-president of the St. Andrews Land Company, and wife, of Newton Center, Mass.; Eugene F. Fay, and wife; W. B. Sears and wife; Roscoe A. Cobb and Nelson E. Weeks, and wives, of Brookline, Mass.; H. D. Waldron, of the Maine and central Railroad, Portland, Maine; Mayor McCollough of Calais; A. B. Chaffe, jr., agent of the C. P. R. Montreal; W. S. Taylor, Treasurer of the C. P. R., and wife, also of Montreal; Ald. Robertson and Miss Robertson, Ex-Mayor Thorne; Hon. David McLellan; Alex. Finley; R. Keltie Jones; J. R. Stone; W. S. Fisher, and Mrs. Fisher, of St. John; W. E. Wood, of the All Rail line; Jas. L. Thompson, manager of the Frontier Steamship Company of Calais; J. Stewart, superintendent of the N. B. R., and wife, of Woodstock; G. A. Haggerty, Mechanical Superintendent of the N. B. R.; H. T. Frisbee; John C. McIntyre; C. H. Pierce; W. Mauser and wife; and John C. Madrigan of Houlton, Maine; W. W. Waugh, proprietor of the Home Journal, Boston; E. H. Crosby, of the editorial staff of the Boston Post, and wife; Benj. F. Priest, of the editorial staff of the Boston Transcript; George H. Brennan, of the Boston Globe staff; Rueben Crooke, editor Boston Traveller; Frank H. Davis of Bangor, representing the Boston Herald and Bangor Whig and Courier; Revel P. Smith of the Bangor News; E. P. Boutelle, of the Bangor Whig; E. H. Dakin, of the Industrial Journal, Bangor; Theo. Cary, of the Aroostook Pioneer, Houlton; J. E. B. McCready, editor of the St. John Telegraph and John Bowes of the St. John Gazette, and Mrs. Bowes.
            As quickly as possible everybody was whisked . . . Manager Jones and Chief Clerk Nason were waiting with open doors to extend to them a welcome. The visitors were charmed with the appearance of the hotel and its surroundings while those who stopped to feast their eyes on the scenery in the neighborhood of the hotel, admitted that they had ever dreamt that St. Andrews was half so beautiful. Mr. Jones and his staff had done wonders in the few days that were left to them, so that, with the exception of a few omissions that were scarcely noticeable, everything was in apple-pie order. The internal and external decorations were pretty and attractive, Chinese lanterns and bannerettes were suspended about the spacious piazza, while from the cupola, surmounting the 'eagle's nest,' the Union Jack and the Stars and Stripes floated side by side. The interior ornamentation was almost wholly floral, and was very effectively arranged. In the hallway, at the bases of the corner pillars, pots of rare plants were disposed, while there was a profusion of cut flowers about the mantles in the parlors and many of the other rooms.
            Lunch was served soon after the arrival of the guests, about one hundred persons sitting down to a rich and elegant repast. . . . Following the lunch came the reception, which was quite a swell affair, and which was attended by a large number of persons. In addition to those who came by train, quite a large party was brought here by Mr. Todd's private yacht from St. Stephen, and an especially large number reached here from Eastport in the steamer "Nellie Kane." St. Andrews also supplied its quota. Lady Tilley formed one of the reception committee, the other ladies being Mrs. Fay, Mrs. Gardiner and Mrs. Jones . . . .
            The guests were received in the beautiful parlors of the hotel, after which they had an opportunity of inspecting the building and the grounds, and of viewing for themselves those external beauties of which St. Andrews possesses such an abundance. For the building and its arrangements nothing but praise was heard, while everybody was enchanted with the delightful prospect that was spread before them as they climbed up to the 'eagle's nest' and swept their eyes around them. Charming, lovely, delightful, sublime, magnificent, grand--these were a few of the adjectives that were used, and even these did not seem to be sufficiently expressive. Quite a number of visitors took advantage of the lovely afternoon to drive about the town and its suburbs and view at nearer range the beauties that had so charmed their eye and their senses from the hotel. It was the unanimous verdict that as a summer resort St. Andrews stands unrivalled, and that as such she is bound to occupy a front rank among the famous watering places of the north Atlantic. . . .
            In the evening the Algonquin looked even more beautiful than in daylight, the glancing lights from the windows, and the brilliant illuminations on the piazza making it resemble a palace of the fairies, instead of a building comprised of wood and brick and mortar. The scene in the interior of the building was equally dazzling--the rich and magnificent costumes of the ladies, the gay uniforms of the military, and the luxurious furnishings of the rooms forming a picture that one rarely has the pleasure of seeing. Lieutenant Governor Tilley and Lady Tilley were present, the former wearing the Cross of the Order of which he is such a distinguished and honorable member, suspended from a ribbon about his neck. Governor Burleigh of Maine, and his staff, brilliantly uniformed, and the officers from Camp St. Andrews . . . greatly enhanced the effect of the picture by their presence.

Beacon
Sept 19/1889
An Improved Water System
The discussion of this important topic in the Beacon, leads me to offer a few remarks upon the subject. While publishing the Standard for nearly half a century, and since my retirement from that office, I have endeavoured to promote the welfare and prosperity of St. Andrews to the best of my ability, and believe, that in some measure, those efforts were productive of benefit; I still feel anxious to do all in my humble way to forward its interests. I thoroughly agree with the Beacon in its advocacy for having a pure and abundant supply of water; and read with attention the clear, concise and to my view reasonable proposition of Mr. R. S. Gardiner, V. P. of the Chamcook Water Co. on the matter.
            It has been admitted that a purer or better spring of water is not within the limits of the town than on my own premises; but I am not so selfish as not to be willing to be taxed for abundant supply of that element for my fellow townsmen, and believe that a majority of its inhabitants will cheerfully submit to a moderate increase of taxation for that purpose. There is not a community in the province with so moderate a rate of tax as SA, and it behoves its property holders to foster any movement on the part of the Land Co. or others to improve the town. The large expenditure of capital by the Land Company, and the success which has crowned their efforts, are a guarantee of their desire to make this vicinity widely known and appreciated. That there are some impure wells in their own, located in low ground and not over tidy back yards, will not be denied, which in some cases have been productive of fatal consequences, and which should be filled dup.
            It matters not who furnished a supply of water for house ore or fire purposes, whether the townspeople or the Chamcook Water Co. An ample supply can be had within the town plot from the ridge commonly known as the Barrack hill, by boring through the rock, in other words artesian wells not much over one hundred feet in depth, and at a moderate coast, as the piping for conveyance to all parts of the town would be on an inclined plant, steep enough not be require pumping apparatus. The wells on the hillside are seldom ten feet in depth, and furnish a supply of water even in the driest months; this I know from actual experience of forty years.
            Like other communities, it has men of brains, enterprise and pluck but unfortunately do not possess the necessary funds to carry out the good work whole those who have means, lack public spirit and will not invest. The fact is as I recently expressed it, we require an infusion of new blood and capital; a quantum of American push, speculative a progressive spirit, a whole souled interest in the town. The bugbear of taxation is worn out; every city and town in the Dominion tax themselves for improvements, and they must do so, or remain in the cold shades of neglect and decay, which its people I believe will not permit. I comply with your request, and have written over my own signature, as I am neither “ashamed or afraid to discuss the subject in public point.’—A. W. Smith

Beacon
Nov 14/1889
The Water Question
Boston, Sept 16
W. D. Forster, Esq.
My dear Sir, Just before leaving SA, I promised to send you for your own information, figures and facts upon the cost, etc., of a water system. My time has so largely been occupied in my legitimate business, that until now I have had no opportunity of complying with that promise.
            Based upon the estimates of hydraulic engineers, the cost of construction of water works for SA—by a system of bored wells—would be $43,000.  This covers cost of boring four wells to an average depth of 120 feet. Stand pipe to contain 150,000 gallons, 30 fire hydrants, steam pump and fixtures, an 8 inch supply pipe on one of the streets running from NW to SE, six inch pipes on the other streets laterally, and four inch pipes upon certain of the streets transversely. Bonds issued to the amounts of the cost at 5 percent would amount to an annual expense of $2,150, to which add the annual cost of maintenance, such as superintendence, Engineer, labor, fuel, would be $2,500 more, making a total of annual expense $4650, which the tax-payers must pay. On the other hand the Chamcook Water Co. stands ready to put in the water system, upon the town through its Fire Wardens, making a contract with the Co. for 30 hydrants at a total annual cost of $1500.
            It may, in answer to this, be asserted that under a water system owned by the town, the cost of water to private users would be much less than under the Water Company ownership. Reference to “Whipples” Water Supply for 1888-9, which gives the figures for over 500 water systems in Canada and the United States, does not bear out such an assertion. Fredericton, NB, for instance: with a population of 7000, expended $109,000, has a bonded water debt of $100,000 at 5 percent interest, has 9 miles of piping (SA would have about 6 ½), ye the average charge to users for water is about the same as the Chamcook Water Co. proposes. New Glasgow, NS, 5000 population, with 8 ½ miles of piping, expended $65,000 and has a bonded debt of $68,000 at 4 ½ percent, and charges much above Chamcook Water Co. figures. Truro, NS, with 6 miles of pipe, has expended $43,000, has a bonded debt of like amount at 5 ½ percent, and charges private users a fraction less than Water Co. proposition. The same general condition prevails in nearly all small places where the municipality has put in the works; the exceptions being those towns so situated that the water supply is brought from lakes, ponds or streams, at an elevation above the town, rendering unnecessary the steam pump, stand pipe or reservoir; but as such a condition does not exist at SA, comparison with these exceptional cases is valueless.
            It may be said by those representing the town: “We don’t propose to put in the complete system; therefore the cost, bonded debt or interest, will not be as great as the figures above given.” Very well; the proposed contract of the Water Co. only compels the fire-board to immediately locate 12 hydrants at a cost of $50.00 each per annum, equal to $600.00, and in any event the rental of fire hydrants only commences when each hydrant is ready for service. Besides, the suggested answer is unfair to the taxpayers. A partial system may give Mr. Odell, Mr. Magee and yourself a water supply, while Mr. Lamb or Mr. Smith, by reason of living on the hill, will be without it. Yet all rive gentlemen would be taxed pro rata to provide a water system. If the own put sin the water, it will at the same time put a bonded debt upon the tax payers, that will be a lasting burden and unless the whole system at an approximate cost of $43,000 will be provided, the town’s needs will only be partially me for the time being and the further expenditure must come sooner or later, while it must not be forgotten that the principal amount which the bonds would represent finally becomes due, and must be paid. I understand that it has been suggested to bore several artesian wells, from which though people may carry their drinking water. Such an idea is merely throwing money away, because it does not in an effective way, meet the needs of the future which I believe St. Andrews has.
            Furthermore, I cannot see how St. Andrews can undertake the raising of money for the purpose, upon bonds, until incorporation of the town can be had, and it is not necessary for me to dwell upon that as an event of the near future. The whole situation summed up seems to me to be this: a corporation stands ready to put in the water system upon the basis of a contract with the town, whereby the maximum cost to the town when completed will be $1500 per year. Rather than accept this it is proposed by citizens, that the town shall bond itself for say $43,000, bind itself to pay annual interest upon that debt of say $2150, together with such further as long as may be a deficit between water sold and expenses of operation. If the gentlemen interested in the latter plan, proposed investing their own money as a business operation, that would be one thing, but to place upon the town a large interest bearing debt, when it is not necessary, should be opposed by very tax-payer, upon grounds of self-protection.
Yours truly,
Robert S. Gardiner.

Beacon
Deb 26/1889
Put Up or Shut Up
To the Editor of the Beacon—
Sir.—there appeared on one of your recent issues, a statement to the effect that, during the past summer season, there was paid to St. Andrews residents, by the management of the Algonquin Hotel, the sum of $4,122. I am informed that the truth of this statement is questioned by certain of your citizens. I do not care to take the trouble to prepare the proof, simply to satisfy the curiosity of idle gossips, therefore make the following proposition. Any one or more residents of SA, having reason to question the amount so stated to have been paid, shall, individually or collectively, deposit with either of your town councillors the sum of $100, I depositing in the same hands, a like amount. If I do not give you, for publication in the Beacon, a detailed statement showing to whom every dollar of the $4,122 as paid, and if necessary, adduce proof by the Algonquin receipts and accounts, as to every item on such statement, the $100 deposited by me shall be equally divided among the churches of St. Andrews to be used for benevolent purposes, and the other $100 returned to its depositors. But if I do furnish such statements and proof, the $100 of the doubters shall be divided as before named, and my money returned to me. A committee, consisting of any three of your clergymen, may decide upon the question of evidence produced.
Robert Gardiner

Fredericton Gleaner
July 9/1890
To SA
Bangor July 17. Attached to the train which reached Bangor at 3:05 this afternoon were two Pullman vestibuled parlor cars, the Mignon and the Lavinia, and a dining car, occupied by as distinguished a party of railroad men as were ever in Bangor. They left Boston this morning and were on their way to the Algonquin at SA, NB, where tomorrow they hold the regular July meeting of the New England General Passenger and Ticket Agent’s Association, at which several questions of great importance to the travelling public will be discussed, and united action arrived at, if possible. Conductor J. E. Rice had charge of the special section of the Pullman cars which the gentlemen occupied and to say that they were enjoying themselves would be expressing it mildly. After the business meeting tomorrow the time will be devoted to pleasure. (Mostly accompanied by wives.
            Allen, W. F. Editor, Traveller’s Official Guide
            Austin, Calvin. GPA. Bangor Line Steamers
            Ayres, John W. Boston Journal.
            Armstrong, George, W. President Armstrong Transfer
            Boothby, F. E. GPA. Maine Central RR
            Brown, Col. W. A. Waterville,, Maine
            Briggs, O. H. GPA. NYP and B RR
            Burdick, J. W. HPDA and H Canal Co
            Connor, George L. GPA. Old Colony RR
            Estey, W. H. Boston Herald
            Flanders, J. A. GEA. Clyde Lines
            Florence, C. A. GEA. Illinois Central RR
            Gardiner, R. S. Pres. New England Railway Pub. Co.

Beacon
Sept 4/1890
Writing Up Sa
Seaside Gossip
An Inkling of What is Going on Around and About Us
Messrs. F. J. Lewis, R. S. Gardiner, and F. W. Cram returned on Saturday from their fishing trip to the head waters of the Miramichi. They killed about 500 fish during their week they were out. A great part of their catch they brought to St. Andrews with them.

Beacon
Sept 11/1890
Complimentary Dinner
Tendered to Judge Emory Speer of Georgia by the Guests of the Algonquin
Delightful as have been the numerous social gatherings at the Algonquin this season, there has been none which contributed more genuine pleasure to the participants than the complimentary dinner which the guest of the hotel tendered to his honor Judge Emory Speer, of Macon, George, on Wednesday evening last, on the occasion of the forty-second anniversary of his birth.
            A circumstance which invested the event with additional interest was the fact that it was a complete surprise to the Judge himself. He had come to St. Andrews to escape a periodical attack of hay fever, and did not dream of being shown any more than the ordinary courtesies of a hotel.  While in conversation with one of he guests on Wednesday morning, he casually remarked that on the day of forty-two years ago he had first seen the light of day. The thought of giving the Judge a surprise suggested itself to the mind of his companion. Communicating the idea to Manager Carter, and the guest of the house they instantly fell in with it. Mr. Carter, with that alacrity which characterizes all his movements set to work to arrange matters, and in an hour or two everything was in train for the event. An elaborate menu, such as only the Algonquin can furnish, was arranged the parlor, halls and dining room, by the aid of wild flowers, ferns, catkins, and the like, supplemented in the banquet hall by Japanese lanterns of the most unique design were instantly transformed as by a fairy hand. In one corner of the banquet chamber an embowered space was reserved for the orchestra, who discoursed during the evening some of their choicest selections. Manager Carter, although greatly restricted by the few hours left him for preparation, did not forget he conventional birthday cake, which is now speeding on its way to Georgia—a messenger of sweetness from the Judge to his household and friends far away. The guests, too mindful of the pleasures that come from giving as well as receiving provided a simple and unique coffee urn (hereafter to be appropriately engraved) with a set of delicate and elegant after dinner china coffee cups and saucers, which will it is hope bring frequent remembrances of the occasion to the judge, as the gift is utilized at his home in the distant south. These little tokens were placed in front of his plate at the table, beside a blooming bouquet of native domestic flowers.
            The Judge had been advised that the Lt. Governor and Lady Tilley would dine with him but of any further honor that was to be done him he had not the slightest idea. At the appointed hour, 7 o’clock, the ample doors of the dining hall were thrown open, the orchestra played a stirring march, and to the inspiriting strains the guests entered the festive chamber. Sir Leonard Tilley, who escorted Miss Speer, was the first to enter. Then came the guest of the evening, on whose arm leaned Lady Tilley. They were succeeded by Mr. R. S. Gardiner, vice-president of the St. Andrews Land Company, and Mrs. Fay; Mr. E. F. Fay and Mr. Gardiner. Mr. and Mrs. Charles V. Carter and the other participants.
            Judge Speer expressed surprise at the transformation the dining hall had undergone; he praised the taste which was displayed by the ornamentation of the room, but not until he had been assigned to the seat of honor and had glanced at the legend on the delicately printed menu cards did the true state of affairs dawn upon him. Then his surprise knew no bounds.
            Here, too, a strange coincidence was discovered,--not the fearful thirteenth table of which so many have a dread, but, corresponding with the years of the judge’s life, sat forty two grown persons, and the three graces were represented by three children who had been included in the invitation, the smaller children having dined an hour earlier.
            The tables were arranged in three sides of a square, the open side being utilized for the center piece, which consisted of a huge vase filled with wild flowers, ferns, etc. the guests were disposed in the order shown on the accompanying plan.

1. Judge Speer
2. Sir Leonard Tilley
3. Miss Speer
4. Eugene F. Fay, Brookline, Mass
5. Mrs. R. S. Gardiner, Newton Mass
6. George tiffany St. Logis, Mo
7. Miss Lunn, Montreal
8. Mrs. Dexter Tiffany, St. Louis, Mo
9. Miss Campbell, Montreal
10. Miss Meeker, NY
11. Fred. W. Meeker, NY
12. R. B. Van Horne, Montreal
13. Mrs. W. C. Van Horne, Montreal
14. Mrs. Hurd, Montreal
15. Mrs. Isaac Denby, Montclair, NJ
16. Mrs. C. F. Smith, Saint John
17. Mrs. George Innes, Montclair, NJ
18. Mrs. George Innes, Montclair
19. F. J. Lewis, Washington, DC
20. Mrs. F. J. Lewis
21. Mrs. M. P. Lewis
22. Miss Lewis
23. Miss F. A. Hensecker, Montreal
24. Dr. G. B. Orr, Cincinnati
25. Mrs. Orr
26. Mrs. Hensecker, Montreal
27. Dexter Tiffany, St. Louis
28. Miss Addie Van Horne, Montreal
29. Miss H. M. Campbell
30. Miss Van Horne [Sir William’s sister?]
31. Miss Hensecker
32. Mrs. Mercer, Newark, NJ
33. Dr. Mercer
34. G. Tileston Wells, NY
35. Charles G. Packer, Newark, NJ
36. Miss Dora Gardiner
37. Mrs. J. H. Merrill, Boston
38. J. E. Merrill, Boston
39. Mrs. Charles V. Carter
40. R. E. Armstrong
41. Mrs. E. F Fay, Brookline, Mass
42. Robert S. Gardiner, Newton, Mass
43. Lady Tilley

The menu, considering the short space of time in which there was to prepare it, did infinite credit to the Algonquin cuisine. The cards, too, were neatly printed, each one having four blank pages on which to record autographs. On Judge Speer’s card the autographs of all the guests had been written, and after the dinner, the guests were kept busy for an hour or more writing their autographs on each other’s menu cards. The following were the appetizing dished which Mr. Carter submitted:
            Cream of chicken a la English
            Consommé Prince Supreme
            Baked Savannah Shad, Sauce Claret wine
            Potato croquettes
Baked Devilled Crabs, Baltimore Style
Roast Young Turkey with Dressing, Cranberry sauce
Roast Tenderloin of Beef, stuffed with clams
Browned Sweet Potatoes
Lobster Croquets, Sauce Princess
Broiled Lamb Chops, with French peas
Timbales of Farina, vanilla sauce
New potatoes in cream
String beans, French peas, Mashed Turnips
Chicken on mayonnaise
Pickled Potatoes with Beets
Cabinet Pudding, Brandy Sauce
Green Annie Pie
Mince Pie
Coconut caramels
Angel cake
Dark cake
Citron cake
Orange ice cream
Grapes, pears, confectionary, layer raisins, figs, dates, edam cheese, Kennedy’s Thin Water Crackers, coffee

When all the viands had been duly considered,, Judge Speer arose, and in a brief, but very felicitous speech thanked the guest most cordially for the honor they had done him. He had not dreamt that he would be so highly favored on the forty-second anniversary of his birth and the occurrence was one that he would always look back to with feelings of the deepest pleasure. In this beautiful and will governed province, said he, that remorseless enemy Hay Fever, if it should come, would come to me in the guise of friend robbed of all its terrors. He spoke of the pleasure that he had experienced during his first visit to SA, and particularly that for he first time in nineteen years he was entirely free on his birthday from any symptoms of his remorseless enemy, hay fever. Continuing, he paid a well-deserved compliment to the place, to the Algonquin hotel and its management, gave expression to the hope that he would meet many of those present another year, and then concluded by an appropriate quotation from one of the poets, which gracefully ended the happy address.
            The Lieutenant Governor was equally happy and equally brief in his speech. He was glad to be present and do honor to such a distinguished gentleman as Judge Speer. He was pleased to be able to welcome the Judge to St. Andrews. Twenty one years had he (Sir Leonard) been summering here, and he felt like a permanent resident. If as is said, Nature abhors a vacuum, equally is it true also that the climate of St. Andrews abhors hay fever. The two cannot exist together. Time and time again has this fact been demonstrate. Sir Leonard, went to say that notwithstanding what was said by certain people in both countries, Canadians were desirous of living on terms of amity and peace with the people of the United States. He pointed out in a pleasant way the advantages St. Andrews has to offer to the American pleasure seeker, and then brought his speech and the festivities to a close by congratulating Judge Speer on the attainment of his forty-second birthday.
            The guest of the evening is the US district judge for Southern Georgia. While an ex-confederate soldier and a genuine Southern man in all of his sympathies, Judge Speer has been in the service of his state and of the National government almost without interruption since he was twenty-three years of age, a circumstance which speaks well for the breadth and sincerity of his devotion to his reunited country.

Beacon
April 9/1891
Mr. Robert S. Gardiner, vice-president of the St. Andrews Land Company, and Mr. F. W. Cram made a flying trip to St. Andrews this week to look after their interests here. During their stay, Mr. Cram exercised the option on Minister’s Island, made by the Messrs. Andrews some time ago, by purchasing 150 acres on the south end of the island.  This property is purchased for W. C. Van Horne, Esq., and president of the Canadian Pacific Railway Company, whose plans for the erection of an extensive and elegant summer residence thereon are completed. Mr. Van Horne expects to have it ready for occupancy this summer. A right for a carriage way from the end of the bar to Mr. Van Horne’s property has also been secured from Messrs. Andrews. It is Mr. Van Horne’s intention to keep a private steam yacht at the Island during the summer, and a floating dock for that purpose will be erected on the S. W. side of the island. It is part of the agreement with the owners of the island that the sand beach at the north-east end of the island, facing Hardwood Island, shall be included in the property purchased to be used for bathing purposes.

Beacon
July 2/1891
Mr. Gardiner S. Gardiner, of Boston, was the first 1891 guest to enrol his name on the Algonquin register. He was accompanied by Mr. Jos. W. Parker of Boston.

Beacon
Aug 13/1891
Trout and lots of them have been stored in the Algonquin cold air chamber the past week. Mr. D. B. Claflin made a big haul of Digdeguash waters, some of them running up to two pounds. T/his pretty big for brook trout, but then Digdeguash trout are famed for their princely proportions. Messrs. F. W. Cram, F. J. Lewis, Charles Gibson and r. S. Gardiner, who were on the upper waters of the Miramichi, came back to the Algonquin on Saturday with an immense lot of handsome fish, principally trout, and a large addition to their stock of fishy yarns. Their catch was away up in three figures—something like 800 we are told.

Beacon
Feb 18/1892
Mr. R. S. Gardiner, vice-president of the St. Andrews Land Company, is paying a visit to the Ameer of Japan. Now, if he can only induce the Ameer to erect a summer residence in St. Andrews our fortune is assured.

Beacon
March 24/1892
Argyll Hotel Burned. St. Andrews Pioneer Summer Hotel Reduced to Ashes
A Defective Flue the Cause. Water Gives Out and the Crowd Watches the Building Burn. Most of Furniture Saved. Insurance. Brief History of the Argyll.
The Argyll Hotel—The Pioneer summer hotel of SA—was reduced from a stately structure to a pile of smouldering ashes, on Sunday evening last.
            After the closing of the hotel season, last year, Mrs. Herbert, widow of the former proprietor, went to the United States for the winter months, leaving the house in charge of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Williamson. They were careful people, and everything went well about the house until Sunday last.
            About 1 o’clock on that day a fire was lighted in the gentlemen’s parlor, a large room on the ground floor to the right of the main entrance. The fire was kept alive in the fireplace all the afternoon, without anything occurring to arouse the suspicions of the inmates of the house. As Mrs. Williamson sat down to tea, in one of the rooms a short distance from where the fire was burning, she heard a noise as if two doors had slammed together. Going out to ascertain the cause she smelt a strong smell of smoke. There was a little smoke visible in the gentlemen’s parlor, but nothing of any consequence. Going upstairs to the second floor, she threw open the doors of the ladies parlor, (which was located just over the other parlor) and a thick cloud of smoke thrust itself in her face. Thoroughly alarmed,, she seized a dinner bell, and ran to the residence of MR. Thomas Armstrong, about 200 yards distant. As quickly as possible, a general alarm was given.
            After alarming the neighbors, Mrs. Williamson flew back to the hotel, and running upstairs again, groped her way through the blinding smoke in the ladies’ parlor to obtain possession of a box belonging to her which contained some valuable papers. She found the box, and when she was coming out of the room, the flames were making themselves manifest through the hall floor on the second flat.
            Although the firemen made a quick response to the alarm, it took them almost twenty minutes to drag the lumbering old machines honored by the name of fire engines, to the scene of the fire. When they got there, there was no water to be had nearer than in a well across the track, alongside the railway tank, and in another in the rear of the Company’s cottage. what seemed an hour was consumed in getting connections made. By this time, the fire,--which might have been stayed if water had been got on it in reasonable time,--was burning fiercely, alongside the chimney on the three floors, and the blinding smoke made it almost impossible for the men to live inside. They stayed and fought the flames for about half an hour, when the water gave out, and they were reluctantly compelled to give up the struggle.
            In the meantime, scores of willing hands in various parts of the house were engaged in removing the furniture. All the furniture on the lower floor was taken out. On the second floor, with the exception of two or three rooms, which were so full of smoke that nobody could stay in them a minute, nearly all the rooms were emptied of their contents. Some furniture was also taken out of the fourth floor, the men working in the rooms until the approaching fire compelled them to lower themselves to the ground by means of ropes. there were fourteen rooms in the second floor of the ell, over the dining hall and billiard room, and they were all divested of their contents before the flames took possession. The upper floor of the ell did not fare so well, very few things being rescued. An organ belonging to one of the last season’s guests, was taken out in a slightly damaged state, but the hotel piano was almost ruined before a rescue was effected.
            When the firemen deserted the building, the southern portion of it was a mass of fiercely burning flames. There was a strong north west wind blowing, which, while helping to feed the fire, also retarded its progress in the northern half of the building. But inch-by-inch, it increased its fiery grasp, until at eight o’clock the entire building was in a seething roaring flame. It was a magnificent sight, but the majority of the spectators were too full of regret at the destruction of the house to appreciate the grandeur of the scene before them. the front chimney, which had no doubt been the cause of the conflagration fell about 8:30 o’clock, the bricks being scattered far out amongst the crowed. No one was injured, though some people had very narrow escapes. All the other chimneys, with the exception of one leading from the dining room, fell as the woodwork was burned away from them. The latter maintained its erect attitude until the following morning, when it was thrown down to prevent its descending on the heads of those standing about.
            It was after midnight before the fire had exhausted itself. After that time all that was standing of the once handsome Argyle hotel were the chimney above mentioned, two or three other pieces of brick-work, and an outhouse, which had been attached to the main building by a covered passage-way, familiarly termed “the bridge of sighs.” This bridge was burned, but the small building was unscathed. The barn and its contents escaped.
            There was very little insurance on building or contents. The Western and British America had policies on the building for $6,000, which just covered outstanding mortgages. On the furniture, most of which was saved in a damaged state, there was an insurance of $1,000 in the North British and Mercantile office. The total lost is estimated at about $15,000.
            The furniture, which was removed from the hotel, was left out all night in the fields, a guard being placed over it by the insurance agents. The Land Company’s cottage in the Park was in imminent danger of destruction, but by careful watching its destruction was prevented. John Rooney had his head injured by a chair being thrown upon it from a third storey.
            History of the Argyll. It is over twenty years since the erection of the Argyll hotel was first mooted in St. Andrews. A bonus of $10,000 to assist in its erection was granted by the town, and only last year was the last assessment on that amount made. In March, 1872, the erection of the building was entered upon. When almost completed, work was suspended, and for several years nothing was done to it. Then it was put up at a Sheriff’s sale, and was bid in by the late Hon. B. R. Stevenson, the Late Hon. Robert Robinson and Harris Hatch, Esq. These gentlemen placed the building in condition for occupation, and a lease of it was taken by Capt. W. H. Herbert, who had been running the Grand Falls Hotel. On the 24th of May, 1881, the hotel was first thrown open of the public. Capt Herbert was lessee of the building up to within a few years ago, when he purchased the property. he ran the hotel up to the date of his death last year, (1891), and since then it has been in his wife’s name, she being assisted by Mr. Robert S. Gardiner, vice-president of the St. Andrews Land Company. The house was open all last season and would have been opened this season, had it not been destroyed.
            Of the 399 ratepayers on property and income, in the town of SA, who, on August the 10th, 1871, voted to assess the town for a bonus of $10,000 in aid of the St. Andrews hotel Co., 194 are dead, 81 have moved away, and 124 are still residents in the town. The vote was taken by Justice J. S. Magee and George F. Stickney.
            The illustration of the hotel, which is shown in this paper, is not a truthful one. this shows the hotel as it would have been if the original plans had been carried out, but they never were. The right wing, over which the American flag floats so gaily in the cut, was never built, though the wall was erected. The ell, which extended back from the central part of the house a distance of 150 feet or more, cannot, of course be seen in picture, though it was the most important part of the hotel. The building was substantially built, and was one of the largest summer hotels in the lower provinces.  It had a capacity for 150 guests. The dining hall was a magnificent room, and had no equal in New Brunswick. (this would include the Algonquin)

Mr. Robert S. Gardiner and Mrs. Gardiner do not expect to return from their Japanese tour until the last of next month. They will probably come back via Europe.

Beacon
March 31/1892
The Argyll Fire
Mrs. Herbert, who came here last week to look after her interests in connection with the last fire, finished up her business and returned to Boston by Saturday’s train. She has no plans formed for the future. To the Beacon she stated that she would like to resume hotel keeping in Sa, but there was no building suited to her requirements. She has stored her furniture and effects that were saved from the fire, and will await the return of Mr. Robert S. Gardiner, from Japan, before deciding what future course to adopt. Hrs. Herbert has requested the Beacon to extend her hearty thanks to the people of St. Andrews for the exertions which they made to save her property during her absence. She feels under a deep debt of gratitude to them.

Beacon
July 28/1892
Mr. Robert S. Gardiner, who, with Mrs. Gardiner, recently visited Japan, is writing a book on that strange and interesting country. It will be profusely illustrated. The book will be essentially Japanese design, and will deal with the habits and customs of that people with a boldness and freshness that cannot fail to make it intensely interesting.

New Summer Residences
Substantial Evidence of St. Andrews Growth as a Summer Resort
In addition to Mr. W. C. Van Horne’s elegant summer mansion, which is rapidly approaching completion on Minister’s island, there will be at least two other summer residences begun in St. Andrews this season. Robert S. Gardiner of Boston, Vice-president of the St. Andrews Land Company, has purchased lots 18 and 19 on Acadia Avenue (about in rear of the Algonquin tennis ground) and has had plans prepared for the erection of a very pretty home for himself. Estimates for its construction are now being asked for, and next week, probably, the contract will be given out. The cottage will be of wood, and will be constructed after the Colonial style. It will have two stories and an attic, and around three sides of it will extend a verandah eight feet wide. The house itself will be 41 feet wide. On the lower floor will be a broad hall—15 in width—also parlor, dining room and kitchen, and Mr. Gardner’s “private den,’ which, by the way, will be quite elaborately fitted up. There will be bathroom and closet on this floor. Upstairs there will be five sleeping rooms and bathroom.
            A few details might be of interest to the Beacon readers. The door of the main hall will be a large double one, of the good old-fashioned pattern, which admits of the bottom portion being closed, while the upper half is open. The chimney will be so situated that there will be fireplaces into it from the corner of the hall and from the corners of the parlor and the dining room. The kitchen range will also enter the same chimney. Mr. Gardiner’ private room, which is located to the left of the entrance, can be entered from the verandah, or from a sliding door in the hall. Portieres will take the place of doors in the entrances to parlor and the dining room. The plans have been prepared by Winslow and Wetherell, architects, of Boston. Mr. D. B. Claflin, of Boston, is to come here tomorrow to select a site for a cottage for himself. He will begin the erection of it this season.

Beacon
Jan 12, 1893
Concerning Japan
“Japan As We Saw It.” This the title of an intensely interesting work from the pen of Mr. Robert S. Gardiner, of Boston. The nature of the contents of this unique volume—which, by the way, is gotten up in most artistic style—is fully described by the title. The author has aimed to provide something of a practical nature, something that would be useful as handbook for those who desire to visit Japan or who may desire to acquaint themselves with Japanese character and customs, and he has undoubtedly succeeded in his aim. Nor has literary effect been forgotten. In succinct form, the author describes from personal experiences the cost of Japanese trip, the modes of travel, the methods of living as travellers, the habits and peculiarities of the Japanese people, their financial systems and many other things that a traveller to Japan ought to know before he starts upon his journey. The narrative is most interesting throughout. There are in the vicinity of one hundred illustrations printed in the most beautiful manner from photographs taken en rouge. The appendix of the work gives the value of Japanese money, distances, cloth measure, land measure, steamship rate, and a list of numerals and phrases in Japanese (with English synonyms) likely to be used by the traveller. Accompanying the volume is a large map of Japan, corrected to date, and with plans of some of the leading cities. The illustration son the cover are after the Japanese style. The books comes from the press of the Rand Avery Supply Company, Boston, and it certainly does them and the author credit.

Beacon
May 11/1893
The Summer Cottages
Mr. R. S. Gardiner of Boston is well pleased with the appearance of his new house. He has contracted with Lordly and Sons, of Saint John , for his furniture, and Vroom Bros., of SS, for curtains and some other fixtures. he will bring his own rugs and linen from Boston. the furniture is to be delivered in St. Andrews on the 15th of June.

Beacon
May 25, 1893
            The summer cottage of Mr. R. S. Gardiner, of Boston, is almost finished. Only the doors remain to be hung, the fireplaces put in, and some other finishing touches done. Mr. Gardiner, unlike his artist neighbor, believes in paint, and has both walls and roof covered. This cottage has a most charming outlook.

Beacon
June 15/1893
A Beautiful Town.--Something About the new Summer Cottages
            The summer homes now in the course of erection in St. Andrews will all be ready for occupation next month. That of Mr. Robert S. Gardiner, of Boston, is about completed. It is a charming little cottage, with a wide verandah facing the eastward, and looking down upon Katy's Cove and all the country which lies beyond. The interior of the cottage is very comfortably arranged. On the ground floor there is a broad hall, with an elegant mantel and fire-place finished in cherry coloring. To the left of this hall is Mr. Gardiner's private den. The parlor is on the right. In the rear are the dining room, pantries and kitchen. All the mantels are finished in cherry, and the hard wood floors, finished as smooth as glass, make the rooms look very attractive. The upper floor is divided off into sleeping rooms. The grounds about the cottage are now being graded and put in shape.

Beacon
July 6/1893
Nearby the Algonquin Mr. R. S. Gardiner of Boston has built a less pretentious but modern homelike residence, in which no less than six open fireplaces indicate the evening requirements of this naturally cool locality. Over eighty feet of wide verandah suggests the after dinner “smoke talk” of the owner and his friends; while beneath and beyond, as far as the eye can reach fair Passamaquoddy Bay, with its island dotted bosom, reminds one more nearly of the Bay of Naples, whose, beauties the poet and writer never tire, of extolling.

Beacon
July 27/1893
Mrs. Robert S. Gardiner’s “at home” on Thursday last was attended by a large number of friends.

Beacon
Aug 31/1893
Robert S. Gardiner and family will close up their summer cottage for the season this week and return to Boston. They expect to leave Boston on the 8th of Sept for China, Japan and Java via Vancouver. They will return home via London.

Beacon
Dec 21/1893
Mr. Robert S. Gardiner of Boston and family were at the Kyoto hotel, Hyogo, Japan, on Nov. 14. Mr. Gardiner remembers the Beacon by sending a copy of the Hyogo Daily News, an English paper published there.

Beacon
Feb 1/1894
Robert S. Gardiner, of Boston and family, were at Marseilles, France, last week, on their return from Japan. The will have circled the world when they reach Boston.

Beacon
March 29/1894
the Algonquin Hotel
Applications for rooms pouring at a Rapid Rate
So far as the Algonquin hotel is concerned, there is every reason to look forward to be the best season that it has ever experienced. Never in the history of the hotel, writes the Secretary-Treasurer to the Beacon, have there been so many applications at such an early date as there are at the present time. With respect to the addition to the hotel, it will not be positively known when work will begin until the return of Mr. R. S. Gardiner, who is now on the Continent. Mr. Gardiner is expected home about the 15th of April. Plans have been made, and an estimate on the same is looked for before many days. "One thing is sure," says the Secretary, "we have got to have an addition to take care of the people as we ought."

Beacon
July 12/1894
There was a shade of sadness in Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Gardiner’s summer cottage on Friday last, when their daughter, Mrs. William T. Payne, and her husband bade them adieu and started for their destination in Kobe, Japan. they will take the “Empress of India” at Vancouver, and expect to reach Japan on the first of August. Mr. and Mrs. Payne have promised to visit St. Andrews in the coming years.

Beacon
Nov 22/1894
The Argyll hotel company has been purchased by Robert S. Gardiner of Boston, vice-president of the St. Andrews Land Company. Mr. Gardiner has abounding confidence in St. Andrews future as a summer resort.

Beacon
April 18/1895
Rhetoric, Romance, etc.
Robert S. Gardiner, of Boston, vice-president of the Algonquin Hotel Company, came her from Boston last week, to look after hotel interests. he was accompanied by Mrs. Gardiner and Miss Gardiner. Mr. Gardiner reports that the summer prospects never looked brighter for St. Andrews than they do this season. he based this statement upon the large number of enquiries the Secretary of the Company, Mr. A. D.S. Bell, of Boston, is receiving, and from the number of engagements that have already been made. Mr. Gardiner says that he summer boat and train arrangement swill be found very satisfactory. Hitherto, there has been considerable complaint from west-bound passengers concerning delays, but this season there should be none, for the 4:30 train will make close connection with the western train from Saint John. As the season advances, in order to encourage Montréal to visit us more frequently, a Pullman will alternate between here and Montreal. Mr. Gardiner says that he will probably soon begin the erection of a stone cottage for himself, and will either rent or sell his present summer dwelling. Mr. Shaughnessy, he says, is still talking of building.

Beacon
May 2/1895
Townspeople are planting flowers at the request of the town Improvement Association. Flower beds at railway station. Honorary members Sir Donald Smith, Van Horne, R. S. Gardiner, Cram, Tilley. Life members Dr. N. G. D. Parker, president; r. S. Gardiner, Mrs. B. S. Stevenson

Aug 1/1895
A magnificent silver cup, adorned with golf stick and golf balls is offered by R. S. Gardiner, of Boston, as a prize in the grand golf tournament which is to come off on the joe’s Point links this month. already some of the best golf players on the American continent are here, and it is expected that a great many more will be present to participate in the contemplate tournament.

Beacon
Sept 10/1896
Mr., Mrs. And Miss Gardiner closed their cottage, “Hillside,” on Friday, the fourth of September, and left that afternoon for Montreal en route for Yokahama, Japan, where they will spend their winter with their daughter, Mrs. Payne and her husband. It is said that Mr. Gardiner will visit China shortly and venture even into the interior. Mrs. Todd, their daughter, who has been staying at Hillside for some weeks, has returned to Baltimore.

A noted party of five ladies played five-handed euchre in the hotel office before the cheerful fire on Wednesday evening, the 2nd inst. It was their farewell game, after which they wished one another an affectionate adieu and hoped to meet again. thus the circle has gradually narrowed and many familiar faces are lost to view. the Bonapartes, the Winch’s, the Wheelers, the Hopes, the Egans the Wilsons, the Hosmers, the Thompsons, the Reids, the Lombards, the Gardiners and the Gilbert party no longer tarry at the Algonquin and cottage life is now the prominent feature at St. Andrews.

Beacon
Sept.15/1898
The Harvest of Death
Death visited the beautiful summer home of Robert S. Gardiner, of Boston, on Friday morning and robbed him of his life partner.  For several years Mrs. Gardiner had been a great, though patient sufferer. The best physicians of the world had been consulted with regard to her malady and painful operation shad been undergone in the hope that the life might be spared to her family for a few years longer. But all the tender solicitude of husband ad daughters and all the skill of physicians an surgeons, proved of no avail, for at an early hour on Friday morning after almost a fortnight of unconsciousness, she passed away to her final rest. Mrs. Gardiner was a woman of tender heart, courteous to al about her, and in the family circle deeply beloved.  She had travelled a good al, accompanying her husband on two tours through Japan before that country was as well known to the outside world as it is today. During the nineteen years that she has been visiting St. Andrews she has made many staunch friends and by them her death is greatly deplored. Her husband, and three daughters,--Mrs. Frederick Todd, of Baltimore Mrs. William T. Payne of Yokohama, Japan; and Miss Dora Dea Gardiner—survive her  To them, her death comes as a irreparable bereavement. The body was embalmed by Mr. J. R. Sederquest, of SS, and removed to Boston by special car on Saturday afternoon.

Beacon
March 16/1899
Death of Mr. Robert S. Gardiner
A Man Who was Active in Promoting St. Andrews as a Summer Resort
The news of the death of Mr. Robert S. Gardiner of Boston, which was received here on Thursday, occasioned a painful shock. For fully twenty years Mr. Gardiner had been intimately associated with the life of St. Andrews, so that the people had begun to regard him as one of themselves.
            Mr. Gardiner's first connection with St. Andrews was as a summer visitor and dates back to the seventies. He and his family became so much attached to the place as a summer home that their visits were as regular as the flight of the swallows. They roomed at the Argyll hotel, until the construction of the Algonquin in 1889, when they made that hotel their summer refuge. Subsequently, Mr. Gardiner erected a beautiful cottage on the crest of the hill overlooking Katy's Cove. There he and his family spent several delightful seasons the first break in their happiness occurring last year, when Mrs. Gardiner died after a lingering illness.
            It was while he was a guest at the Argyll hotel, that Mr. Gardiner, together with Mr. F. W. Cram, then manager of the New Brunswick Railway, conceived the idea of developing St. Andrews as a summer resort. To think with them was to act. As a result of the joint endeavours of the two gentlemen, (who were able to associate with them an number of American capitalists) the Algonquin Hotel company, the St. Andrews Land Company and the Chamcook Water Company were formed. In the summer of 1888 the Land Company acquired control of the plot of ground to the south of the railway tract. By the expenditure of a considerable sum of money this was converted into a very pretty natural park, and a sample summer cottage erected therein. The company also purchased all the most desirable lots that they could obtain, their purchases giving the town quite a boom. The brick building, now occupied by The Beacon, was likewise constructed by the company. While the Land Company was thus employed, the Hotel Company was not idle. The magnificent Algonquin,--the handsomest summer hotel in eastern Canada,--was erected by them and in 1889 was thrown open to the public. These projects, which involved the expenditure of many thousands of dollars, owe their origin almost entirely to the energy and business shrewdness of the two gentlemen we have named. When Mr. Cram severed his connection with the railway, he was not able to devote so much of his time as he had formerly done to the promotion of St. Andrews interests, but Mr. Gardiner's interest never faltered. His hand figured very largely in the construction of the addition to the Algonquin a few years ago. The establishment of a golf links here was Mr. Gardiner's idea. As a result of his endeavours, the present links at Joe's Point, which is acknowledge to be the most beautifully situated in America, was laid out. At his own cost, he erected a club-house and presented it to the Golf Club. He also contributed some very costly prizes for golf competitions.
            A year or two ago, Mr. Gardiner with Mr. D. B. Claffin, of Boston, acquired the Sampson property, near the Algonquin hotel. On this land there is a natural spring, the waters of which are said to possess valuable medicinal properties. It was the intention of Mr. Gardiner to make this spring one of the attractions of the place. The first steps toward that end were taken last year, when the wall was stoned up with granite. It was intended that this season further improvements should be made.
            The Argyll hotel property was purchased by Mr. Gardiner several years ago. It was said at the time that he had a mammoth hotel scheme in view, but it never matured, the property still remaining in an undeveloped state. Had he lived, it is not unlikely that he would have carried his project into effect within a year or two.
            Three daughters survive Mr. Gardiner's death,--Mrs. Frederick Todd, of Baltimore; Mrs. Wm. T. :Payne, of Yokohama, Japan, and Miss Dora Gardiner.

From the Boston Transcript, March 8:
Robert S. Gardiner, president of the Rand Avery Supply Company, died of apoplexy early this morning, in his suite at Haddon Hall. The stroke came without warning, as up to the time of his death he had been a man of apparently perfect health. Yesterday evening he was at Winchester where he delivered a lecture on China and Japan, a subject in which he was greatly interested, before the Calumet Club. At the close of the lecture he returned immediately to his suite in Haddon Hall, where he was at present living alone, as the daughter usually with him is just now absent. He death occurred at about one o'clock and was instantaneous.
            Mr. Gardiner was born in Troy, N. Y., in 1842, and was educated in the schools of Hamilton, Ont. In 1857 he went to work as a press feeder on the Daily Traveller, of Troy, where he remained until the breaking out of the civil war, through which he served with distinction, being at the close of the war a member of the staff of General Devebs. After receiving his discharge he went to New York, where he went to work as a salesman with Sanford, Harroum and Co., at one time one of the only two firms in the country printing railroad tickets. He was most successful in his work, and in 1873 he came to Boston as the manager of the railroad department of the old firm of Rand, Avery and Co. In 1883 he formed the present Rand Avery Supply Company, purchasing the plant of the old concern. He acted as the vice-president and general manager of the company up to the time of his death Mr. Avery, a few years ago, when he became its president.
            Mr. Gardiner was a man of the most sunny and genial nature, and was always approachable, in spite of the complicated nature of his business interests and the great demands made on his time by them. He was an extensive traveller; he had made a trip round the world, and he had visited China and Japan a number of time. He wrote a book on the latter country, and was considered an authority of subject relating to both empires. He was an original member of the Master Printer's Club, and a member of the Algonquin Club. [Book called “Japan as We Saw It,” Rand-Avery, 1892]
            Boston Post. The sudden and untimely death of Robert S. Gardiner removes a valued citizen who was not only actively engaged in the interests of he community, but a shining example of what American enterprise and industry can accomplish. by his own effort he brought himself to a competence, and with all his many business cares found time to undertake literary work and enjoy the privileges of travel. No man in Boston was better posted on China and Japan, and his books and lectures on these subjects were standards of authority. The Boston colony with yearly assembles at Sa, NB, where Mr. Gardiner had a cottage, will sadly miss his genial presence.
            Mr. Gardiner’s funeral: Boston Globe. the funeral of Robert S. Gardiner, at the time of his death president of the Rand Avery Supply company, was held at noon today (March 10), in the Arlington street church. the religious exercises, scriptural selections and prayer were of the simplest and most touching nature, and were conducted by Rev. John Cuckson, the pastor. The attendance of personal family and business friends, and representatives of railroad interests was large. The arrangements for the funeral were conducted by Mr. F. E. choate, treasurer of the company, of which Mr. Gardiner was president, and the ushers at the church were foremen in the company’s service.
            . . . Mr. Cuckson, at the close of his prayer, gave a brief eulogy. he said in part: “It was no small thing for our friend, in the common and ordinary ways, as we might express it, to meet every obligation and to resist every inroad on his honor and integrity. His course through life was one of strength, influence and faithfulness., the difficulties of leading a worthy life were not smoothed away for him; he simply overcame them. We know, but may not dwell upon what he was in the home life and the home circle—as father, husband, friend. they will look to and will receive that comfort and consolation which alone the Father of all mercies can bestow.” the pallbearers were Lucius Tuttle, Pres. of the Bangor and Maine Railroad, Edward A Taft, Manager of the Bangor and New York. Despatch company Nelson E. Weeks, vice-president Rand-Avery Supply company and A. D. S. Bell. The interment was in Newton cemetery.

SA feels more than a passing interest in the painfully sudden death of Robert S. Gardiner in Boston. For nearly two decades, Mr. Gardiner has been identified with St. Andrews first as a summer visitor, and second, as one of the chief promoters of abroad scheme to develop the town as a summer resort. Whatever progress St. Andrews has made as a summer retreat is due in large measure to the enterprise and business shrewdness of Mr. Gardiner and those he associated with him. He entered upon the work with a great deal of enthusiasm, and though his expectations had not been realized to the extent he had hoped for at the beginning, yet he never lost faith in the ultimate success of his project. the Algonquin Hotel, so long as it lasts, will stand as a magnificent monument to his energy and appreciation of “SA as one of the choicest location for summer resort on the Atlantic coast. Other monuments there are, but it is not necessary here to name them. what influence his untimely death will have upon the summer interests of the town it is difficult to determine at the present time, but that it will seriously affect them there can be little doubt.

Beacon
March 23, 1899
Concerning Mr Robert S. Gardiner’s recent death it appears that as early as eleven o’clock on the night of the 7th, Mr. Gardiner was alarmed by a pressure in his head. He called in a physician who endeavoured but in vain to relieve him. Three other physicians were summoned, but they cold not prevent his death, which occurred between 2 and 3 o’clock the following morning. Miss Dora Gardiner aw away from home at the time for her father’s death. Mss. Payne of Yohohama, Japan, his second daughter, wrote to friends that she intended spending the summer with her father. It is though that she was on the Pacific when the death occurred.

The Late Mr Gardiner’s Adventurous Life
A member of the Calumet Club of Winchester before which he gave a smoke-talk Tuesday night, says that to him Mr. Gardiner seemed to be making an unusual effort several times during his address, that only by nerve force did he appear to bring himself to his full power of speech. The address he made was 90 min in length, but was so absorbing that the held all the club members closely to the end.
            Some of the experiences he described, on his “through the gorges and rapids of the Yang-tse,” were thrilling. On one occasion he waited seven days in his junk beneath of the walls of Chinese city in which no white man was supposed to have set foot, to meet a mandarin, who promised from day to day to admit him. Finally he learned it was a hopeless task. The next foreigner who attempted to enter was murdered.
            On one occasion he had to deal with 90 coolies who mutinied on his junk to get at 100,000 “cash”—($60 in silver). He shot the leader and this cooled them off effectively.
            On another occasion a Chinese mob was crowding in on him in a very threatening fashion. His interpreter was thoroughly frightened. But Mr. Gardiner, with presence of mind , pullout his passport. The red seal on it looked so much like the national flag that the natives thought they were dealing with an official, and fell back.
            Mr. Gardiner had an intimate knowledge of Chinese etiquette, as eh showed when one Mandarin invited him into his house by the back door. He promptly stood on ceremony and again when he was invited to sit down without the three preliminary bows.
            Mr. Gardiner though the missionaries were of great value in extending our trade, but though the results in the way of conversion were not satisfactory.—Boston Record.

Beacon
Aug 24/1899
The wisdom of the late Mr. R. S. Gardiner in establishing a golf links as an adjunct to the summer hotel at St. Andrews is becoming every year more apparent. This season it has been the grand drawing card. Players from far and near have come to St. Andrews to test the qualities of its famous links, and have been so fascinated by it that they have lingered long after their allotted time. It is not stretching the truth in any degree to say that the best golf players in the Canada and the United States have been gathered at the St. Andrews links this season, and are returning to their home with delightful memories of chasing the sphere over the most picturesque golf ground in America. This season the Algonquin golf club have had some interesting competitions. None proved more delightful than the matches with Saint John, in both of which the Saint John players were defeated. Nevertheless, it is likely that no outside matches will be played after this season. If any outside clubs desire to pay they will be accommodated if they come to SA, but the home club will remain at home.  This is the present feeling of the leading members of the St. Andrews club. Perhaps, however, they may revise their opinion before another season comes about.

Beacon
June 14, 1900
It is expected that the Algonquin Hotel cottage (cottage five? I believe Park Cottage has already been bought by Grimmer) and the cottage belonging to the estate of the late Robert S. Gardiner will both be occupied this season.
           
#Beacon
Dec 6/1900
Argyll Hotel property purchased from Gardiner estate by CPR.

Beacon
April 25/1901
Our Summer Cottages
The following cottagers are expected here the coming summer:
1. Covenhoven—Sir William Van Horne and family, Montreal.
2. Lazy Croft—Mr. George F. Inness and family, Montclair, NJ.
3. Cedar Croft—Rev. A. T. Bowser and family, Wilmington, Delaware
4. Risford—Mrs. and Mrs. J. Emory Hoar, Brookline, Mass
5. Casa Rossa—Mrs. J. S. Ludlam, Lowell, Mass
6. Algonquin cottage—Ms. Thomas P. Curtis, Cambridge, Mass
7. Grimmer cottage (near Algonquin)—Mr. and Mrs. George Hooper, Montreal
8. Grimmer (brick) cottage—Prof. Wendell and family, of Cambridge
9. Bar road—Mr. and Mrs. E. Maxwell, Montreal
10. Bar road (new cottage)—Mrs. And Ms. William Hope, Montreal
11. Smith cottage—Misses Barlow and Mrs. Carpenter, Atlantic City
12. Donald MacMaster, K. C., and family, Montreal, new cottage King St. extension
13. Rev. Dean Sills and family, Portland, Maine, cottage near rectory
14. W. D. Hartt and family, Florida, cottage on Water Street
15. T. R. Wheelock and family, Boston, King Street cottage
16. Gardiner cottage—Mrs. William T. Payne and family, Yokahama, Japan

Beacon
Jan 22/1903
In noting the change that has taken place in the personnel of the St. Andrews Land Company we feel it due to the survivors of the original company that we should express our deep sense of gratitude for what they and their deceased colleagues have done towards making St. Andrews known to the outside world as a summer resort. Among the men prominent in this movement we might mention the names of F. W. Cram, the present popular manager of the Bangor and Aroostook Railway; Mr. Eugene F. Fay, of Brookline, Mass.; Mr. A. D. S. Bell, of Boston; Mr. Boothby, of Portland, Maine, and the late Robert S. Gardiner. R. A Cobb D. B. Claflin and J. Emory Hoar. It is largely owing to the exertions of these gentlemen—Messrs. Cram and Gardiner particularly—that St. Andrews is to the fore as a summer resort. We betray no secret when we say that to Mr. Cram’s persuasive powers is due the fact that the Beacon is enjoying the smiles of the people of the Charlotte County. The same gentle persuasions were employed upon the heads of the great CPR corporation and with equal success, as our readers are all happily aware. The removal of Mr Cram from the province and the death of Mr. Gardiner and several of his associates weakened the company to such an extent that of lat years very little has been done in the way of developing their interest. But they set the ball rolling, and though it has rolled a little slow at time it has been moving along nine the less surely toward the goal of success.

Beacon
Nov 5/1908
RM. Robert gill, of Ottawa, has purchase the Gardiner cottage overlooking Katy’s Cove, and is having it repaired and improved. The work is being done by Wright McLaren, the architects being Messr. Maxwell, of Montreal. Mr. Gill will occupy the cottage another season.

St. Croix Courier
Aug 5/1948
Shiretown Items: Memorial Park--idea of Mrs. Payne (daughter of R. S. Gardiner) summer resident, to put plaques on benches around the Kiwanis bandstand to the memory of the departed, but war cancelled the concerts and now the benches, though well-placed for the comfort of residents and visitors, lie scattered throughout the town, much to the annoyance of Dr. Worrell, who considers this a disrespect to the dead. For particular dedications on the benches and donors, see St. Croix Courier Sept 1/1938. Mostly summer people, often in memory of children or spouses, as for example Edward Maxwell.