Item

Standard
Jan 22/1845
The "Sons of Temperance" is the title of a new secret order, having signs, grips, passwords, etc. They have commenced operations in the State of Maine.

Standard
Jan 29, 1845
Black Iniquity
In six months, 3 vessels under American colors, have been brought into Rio Janeiro, with average cargoes of 500 slaves each, making in all eighteen thousand.

James Knox Polk
11th President of the United States
(March 4, 1845 to March 3, 1849March 3, 1849)
Nickname: "Young Hickory"
Born: November 2, 1795, in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina
Died: June 15, 1849, in Nashville, Tennessee

Standard
Feb 5, 1845
Columnists continue to criticize County expenditures.

Standard
Feb 12, 1845
To Our Subscribers
There is no part of an editor's duty more unpleasant than reminding delinquent subscribers for their unpaid accounts; but necessity has no law. We have frequently been obliged to dun and are now reluctantly compelled to do so again. Some accounts have been due for three or four years and respecting such our subscribers surely cannot think it hard, that after waiting so long and asking so often, we should now urgently require payment. Want of punctual payment has hitherto prevented us from improving our paper, as much as we wished, but as we have now ordered new type, and are making other preparations for this purpose, we are induced to make one more earnest appeals to our delinquent subscribers for the settlement of their accounts, in the hope that they will perceive the necessity as well as propriety of immediately complying with this request.

We may further state that we have secured the services of a gentleman to assist us in the editorial department, and we have also been promised the assistance of several able correspondents. The Standard will therefore be much more interesting and worthy of support than it has hitherto been and we trust that these exertions on our part, will be met by corresponding confidence and support on the part of the public. To those who have paid us regularly and cheered us on our course, we return our unfeigned acknowledgments, and respectfully solicit a continuance of that patronage which it shall be our constant aim and highest ambition to merit.

[I noticed several references to a certain unspecified newspaper called the "Courant" in 1844; I don't support it could have been the St. Andrews Courant?" I wonder if the new editor's assistant mightn't be James Storey. Did he work for the Courant? Is it recently defunct? No mention of it that I saw.]

Detailed list of Mr. Boyd's bills in the Legislature.

Standard
Feb 19, 1845
Reference to late James Rait in Boyd's bills in Legislature.

Standard
March 26, 1845
Launched on Tuesday last, from the shipyard at Brandy Cove, a substantial built and well finished ship of 600 tons, called the Isabella Stuart, built by Messrs. Brewer and Briggs, for Nehemiah marks, esquire.

Standard
March 26/1845
Various ships launched from Brandy Cove.

New Brunswick: "Honestus" proposes St. Andrews as ideal spot for a proposed lunatic asylum. Picturesque and healthy as everyone knows. . Editor on side as well.

Mr. Smith: In looking over the debates of the House of Assembly on the question of locating the "Lunatic Asylum," I was reminded of a circumstance that occurred soon after the subject was first mooted in the province. In viewing the scenery round St. Andrews, in company with a highly respectable medical gentleman, from the rising ground about a mile in the rear of the town [location of future Algonquin?], and near the residence of Captain Mowat, [Elm Corner?] he observed, "of all the locations I have seen in this Province, not one combines so many advantages for the contemplated Asylum, as this very eminence. That very spot (pointing to the Whitlock farm,) could be obtained for a small consideration, and there is plenty of land for every purpose required."
Look at that splendid sheet of water, continued he, pointing to the inner Bay of Passamaquoddy, where the whole British fleet could be safely moored, completely land-locked, with all the lively scenery that surrounds it, and the life and animation that is at this moment visible on its bosom. (There was at the time, about one hundred boats to be seen, engaged in the lively and exhilarating sport of Mackerel fishing, and about ten sail of vessels under full sail, running down the St. Croix with a delightful breeze from the Northwest.) The luxuriant fields in front and around this spot, with every variety of crop usually cultivated in the Province, in full bloom, with here and there a cluster of trees shading the cattle as they reposed on the green, or sported their gambols in all the delight of the animal creation, the spires of the different churches and the houses on the rising round in the back part of the Town, and the fort in the rear, with now and then a straggling sails spread to the breeze in the harbour, all in full view, are objects that may well be contemplated with feelings of pleasure and admiration, and are seldom met with at one view or comprehended within the limits of a single landscape; and here the Spectator has only to extend his eye, in order to behold the entrance of the Digdeguash and Magaguadavic rivers on the left, the parish of West Isles with both the passages into the Bay in ?, the town of Perry and Robbinston, on the American side of the St. Croix on the right, and the mountains in the vicinity of Chamcook in the rear, completing a choice of scenery, seldom equalled and not excelled in British America. Add to this the clear air,—the salubrity of the climate—the proximity to medical advice—to Ministers of the gospel of various denominations—to a market only second to Saint John for plenty and variety, and cheapness; and a continual passing of vehicles from morning till night, and you have some of the beauties and advantages but feebly described, that this situation presents for the location of an Asylum, from which the wandering mind may be arrested and attracted, by the "beauties of nature and of art," that surround it, and which may lead to the mitigation of some of the complaints that suffering man is heir to.

Reader, are they not worthy of the most serious consideration of those who are entrusted with the disposal of this important affair? This no imaginary picture, nothing but facts, and the half has not been told. True, this site is not near the Seat of Government, neither is it subject to the extremes of heat and cold, which prevail in the vicinity of Fredericton. It presents not the central situation of Gagetown or the protection of "Fort Jemseg." The sunken marshes in the vicinity of "Poverty Hall," are not to be viewed from this spot; nor yet the valley of the Kennebekasis, with its banks overflowed in spring and fall; neither would the location be so likely to secure the superintending pace as "castle Bently," would, if selected.

True, this site could not boast of the life stirring scenes which are continually to be viewed, in and around the harbour of Saint John, when not obscured by the prevailing fog in summer; nor could Mr. Hannington be supplied with a full supply of his favorite oysters from the banks of the "bay of Verte" or Shediac, should he have to take up his residence in Charlotte; but to compensate for that deficiency, we have many inducements to offer which must be viewed to be fully appreciated; and as coming events cast their shadows before them, it may be of immense importance to many hon. members that the best location for health and climate should be selected. I would therefore take the liberty of recommending that certain hon. members, (accompanied with competent medical advice,) should be chosen to examine the merits of the different places recommended, and to decide which, everything considered has the precedence.
To be serious—should the Provinces of Nova Scotia and P. E. Island, join in the undertaking, it could not be expected to be located in this part of the Province; but if not, while the vicinity of St. Andrews presents the strongest claims in every other respect, the only objection that can be urged, is its not being in a central situation. I have no personal interest to benefit. I own not a foot of land in the vicinity; my only motive in writing, is, that the best locality should be selected. [a deliberate echo of Modest Proposal?]
With Steam navigation in the summer, and the land communication always open in winter, this is but a secondary consideration, and should yield to scenery and climate, when surrounded with every other necessary convenience; and notwithstanding the many beauties of the noble Saint John, no one site that can be selected near its banks, can unite so many claims to preference for the purpose of locating the contemplated Asylum, as the spot here pointed out, in old Charlotte.
Yours, etc. HONESTUS

We would call attention to the communication of Honestus which appears in our columns today. If the House of Assembly means to establish a Lunatic Asylum in this province it certainly is of great moment to select a proper situation. Everyone acquainted with New Brunswick must be aware that no locality in it is so favourable for the proposed object as St. Andrews. This has always been considered the finest climate and most healthy place of residence in the province, and this consideration alone would be sufficient to determine the matter. But as our correspondent has clearly shown, St. Andrews is by no means deficient in every other necessary adaptation to the requirements of such an institution as that the establishment of which is contemplated. When our House of Assembly come to deal with this matter, we trust that the all-important requisite of a proper site will not be overlooked.

Never any pro-slavery remarks in this newspaper. In stories of British captures of slave ships, quite the opposite.

Standard
April 16, 1845
We learn that McNall, was apprehended in Boston, and placed in safe keeping and that after some time he was induced to give up a part of the amount he absconded with.

Justice Abbot's charge to the Grand Jury at the session of Common Pleas, page 1, dwells at length on the County Debt and the Accounts of the Collector of Rates. Though no criminal matters to consider, yet, "The Accounts of the Collector of Rates in the several parishes will probably require of you as strict and critical examination as any that will be before you, and great care is requisite to see that there is no fallacy in the account stated in ? in respect to outstanding delinquents, and especially in regard to such as have been reported to a Magistrate, and against whom the Collector as plaintiff has (in conformity to law) obtained Execution.
Error has heretofore crept into Collectors Accounts, presented here at the Sessions, by the Collector's crediting himself with the amounts due from this description for delinquents as so much money lodged in the hands of the Magistrates, who issued the Execution, thereby lessening his own liability to the County and charging it upon the Magistrate who in point of fact has no such money in his hands and perhaps never would have—the proceeds of the Exertions when collected by the Constable being always at the command of the Collector, and invariably paid over to him as Plaintiff in the case, the amount should therefore remain at his debit, and not to his credit, in his Account current with the County. To avoid loss to the County these particular items should of course be critically looked after. . . .
And here it may not perhaps be improper for me to make some additional remarks on the subject of these accounts, and of matters connected with them, relating to the general affairs of the County, more especially as there has been got up of late a considerable degree of excitement respecting them, and attempts have been made to attach blame to the Magistrates concerning them.

You must all be aware that the County has of late years been at great expense in the purchase of grounds, and in erecting a new Court House and Gaol; and although it has in aid of this outlay large Legislative grants, yet not in sufficient amount to meet the whole cost, and at some time to defray the ordinary expenses as they occur from Session to Session and year to year; and the County has been obliged to resort to loans to make up the deficiency-the balance still due on those loans from the most important item of the present County Debt; and the ordinary expenses of the County are unavoidably great, and are probably much enhanced by reason of not having from time to time, the means to make prompt payment, and thereby securing the advantage which ready money always commands, and which you well know is in this country upon an average equal at least to 25 percent.

I repeat, Gentlemen, that the affairs of a County like this, cannot be managed and carried on without necessarily incurring heavy expenses, and you will have ocular demonstration of this truth in the amounts which will be laid before you. We live under a government of Laws, and those Laws must be administered and carried into effect, It is for the safety of life and property that they should be. Public justice cannot be stayed—and when complaints are made under the Laws to the Magistrate—he cannot turn round and say to the complainant, or party aggrieved, that Justice cannot be had in the premises, because, forsooth, it may occasion expense to the County.
The Legislature enact Laws and, in those enactments, assign certain duties to the several officers appointed to execute them; allowing them certain fees for the performance of those duties; which they having performed, they are entitle to claim and receive from the County the amount of their lawful fees. It is their fees and certain fixed Salaries of the several officers of the County,—the necessary incidental expenses attending the sitting of the several Courts curing the year, and the allowances made to the keepers of the Gaol, together with the ordinary daily expenses and maintenance thereof, which make up the great aggregate of County expenditure—and which gives rise to the Annual claims upon it.

Now, Gentlemen, when the accounts of their several claimants, are rendered as they usually are at the Sessions in April and September, the Magistrates then in Session are in duty bound to receive, examine, and audit them with the same eye to strict and impartial justice as if it were a matter to be adjudicated upon between one individual and another, and they cannot refuse an order for the payment of them if they are found to be properly avouched, correctly state, and all the charges in conformity to law.
Accounts thus audited, and passed the County, by the Constitution of the government under which we live, is bound to pay; and if the County is deficient in funds to meet the payment, and has no other source of revenue at command, it must of necessity, resort to taxation for the purpose.
In years gone by, when the expenses of the County were comparatively small, the Revenue arising from the operation of the License Law [liquor licenses] was of considerable amount, and then went far towards meeting the expenses; but as the County has increased in population its Courts have been multiplied—its business and expenses have of course immensely increased—and the source of revenue here adverted to, has within a few years greatly abated, and but a very trifling sum is now realized from it. The falling off of the income from this particular source, although it leaves a very perceptible deficit in the ways and means of the County—ought not to be a subject matter of too much regret—but rather perhaps of gratulation—inasmuch as it is indicative of the progress of that great moral reform which under the influence of the Temperance societies is now so happily pervading this community. And it will probably prove in the end much more for the real benefit and interest of the people at large, that they are subjected to an increase of direct taxation in order to meet the present exigencies of the County, than that the excessive use of spirituous liquors should with all the attendant evils become again, as formerly, prevalent in the County.

The parochial rates for the support of the Poor are separate and distinct from the charge against the County, but these together with the highway taxes in the "money districts" (so called) and prescribed by Law in some of the Parishes, swell up the amount of money taxation, and of course add to the burdens of the people and consequently more or less to their discontent, naturally producing in hard times, like these a state of things highly favorable to the designs of the Demagogue and Agitator, furnishing him with an opportunity which he rarely fails to avail himself of, in order to effect his inflammatory purposes. But the Poor we have with us always, and they must be taken care of and it cannot possibly be the fault of the Magistrate that this tax upon the people is necessary.
If the substitution of a money tax for labour under the limits prescribed by law, although it may operate rather severely on some individuals who are very poor, and who can more easily pay in labor than in money, yet on the whole I believe it is generally thought to be highly beneficial to the public; and I know that under the excellent management of the road of Commissioners in the Parish of Saint Stephen, where I reside, it has produced at a much cheaper rate a greater improvement in the roads, streets, and bridges, than ever before in the same length of time has been effected under the day labour system.
The Highway law taken as a whole, we all, I believe, think and feel to be very unequal in its apportionment of labour, and in its general operation; but gentlemen, this is no fault of the Magistrates. We have not the making of the law, neither do we or the Grand Jury, come here to find fault with the laws, —but each in our own proper sphere to administer, fulfill, and to obey them.

I do not know how you, and others, may view the matter, but I have myself ever considered it a great misfortune to the County that some three years since when the magistrates applied to the House of Assembly for an Act to authorize the levy of an assessment in order to pay off the then County debt, that our immediate Representatives in that House should have felt it to be their duty to oppose the passage of the Bill; and by which opposition alone the bill was defeated, and no assessment allowed to be levied on the County that year. The consequence was that when the Bill of the next year was passed that when the debt had greatly accumulated, and the Count was obliged to be taxed nearly double what it would have been the year before, and this was but a small part of the evil—for the year when the business of the County was good, and in flourishing condition, and the people well able to bear taxation; but the year following that in which a bill was finally obtained—was one of the great depression of business, and it was a greater hardship for most of us to pay a shilling that year, than it would have been to pay five shillings the year before.
This made a wonderful difference and occasioned a great deficit in the Collection of the Assessment, whereby much loss resulted to the County, and severe hardship to the people. And I sincerely believe, we may fairly attribute to this circumstance and its consequences, an aggravated accumulation of our difficulties and our present embarrassment.

I am sorry Gentlemen to have detained you so long,—and I should not have thus extended my remarks upon this one subject had it not been for the excitement abroad before alluded to, and which seems to have left an unfavorable impression on the minds of many worthy persons in regard to the management of our County affairs; and I have gone more into detail than what perhaps might seem necessary on this occasion, and more than I should have done, had I not been desirous to invite your particular attention to it, and induce you to a thorough investigation of the matter—not only for your own satisfaction, but for the better information of the people. Everything is open to you and to the Public.

I know of no impediment or hindrance to the most strict scrutiny into all the matters connected with our County affairs, the Books of the Treasurer and the Files of the Clerk, are equally open to inspection; and through the well-known courtesy of both these Gentlemen, applicants may at all proper and convenient seasons be sure to obtain every necessary information, and every requisite explanation.

It is certainly very important, and highly desirable, that every effort should be made and every practicable means adopted, not only by the Magistrates but by all concerned, to lessen the expenditure, and to promote a sound, frugal and rigid economy, in the management of our County affairs,—and gentlemen any suggestions from your tending to this effect, I feel confident will be well received by the Magistrates, and all due attention paid thereto; and I feel myself warranted, in assuring you, that the Bench will cheerfully cooperate with the Grand Jury in all lawful and proper measures, tending to so desirable an end.
I hope and trust, Gentlemen that we may soon have it in our power to congratulate each other on the return of better times, and a more prosperous state of the business of the County, and that here will be less discontentment amongst us, and less cause for it.

Collectors of Rates
In the Assembly, on the 10th inst. Mr. Boyd brought in a Bill requiring Collectors of County and parish Rates to give security for the proper discharge of their duties. The Bill is an important one, and we trust will become a law. At present there is no law to authorize the Magistrates to take bonds from the Collectors for the faithful performance of their duty.

The Grand Jury
William Whitlock, Foreman
F. R. Fitzgerald, F. A. Babcock, William Gilmor, Tim Croker, William Aymar, Arch. McDairmid, Henry O'Neil, John Buckstaff, Andrew Buntin, Jacob Young, John Bothwick, Edward Pheasant, M. S Hannah, Charles Bradley, Henry Frye, John Lochary.

Standard
April 30, 1845
Communication for the Standard
Mr. Editor,
When a public address like that of Mr. Justice Abbot to the Grand Jury of their County appears in print, it becomes public property, and as such, is open to such remarks as may be called forth in an impartial and honest criticism. In the address alluded to published in your paper, some assertions were made which if not more particularly noticed, might tend to mislead the public as to the duties and responsibilities of the Magistrates in certain cases therein referred to. The first paragraph I shall notice is that in which his worship calls the particular attention of the Grand Jury to the License Law, "as it is not only due to the Law that offenders should be punished by the fine it imposes but it should be looked carefully after in aid of the funds of the County." Now Sir, I would respectfully ask his worship, if, by virtue of his oath as a magistrate it is not equally his duty to look after such cases? And whether there are not daily offences against the License Law committed under his immediate notice? Not to say under his own roof! And those offences are passed unnoticed—and why? . . .

The next paragraph I shall call attention to, is that in which he endeavours to shirk the Magistrates clear of all responsibility for the non-collection of Taxes, from Delinquents, after returns are made to them by the Collectors. His assertion, that the collectors have the control of such Executions as are issued and that he invariably receives from the Constable all taxes collected by them will not be borne out by the returns signed by the Magistrates themselves as made by the Collectors to the Sessions from the different parishes in the County. Had his worship said, that "as the magistrate seldom cares what becomes of such Executions after sufficient is collected to pay their own costs—the Collectors should see that the Magistrates do their duty," his remarks would have been more appropriate. His Worship also chimes in with his predecessors in the old song of the "new Gaol and Court House being the continued cause of heavy assessments upon the County," The public can be no longer gulled out of their money to be appropriated to unjustifiable and illegal purposes—under a false impression that the money is expended in payment for the Gaol and Court House. In another paragraph he says "Public justice cannot be stayed—and when complaints are made under the Law to the Magistrate—He cannot turn round and say to the complainant or party aggrieved, that Justice cannot be had in the premises, because forsooth it may occasion expense to the County." Now, Sir, there is a material difference in a magistrate refusing to grant justice to the truly aggrieved, and in a Magistrate taking up every paltry and trifling case that he can find, because forsooth the County is good for the costs! His worship in adverting to the great falling off in the ordinary revenue of the County, attributes it to the progress of the Temperance cause decreasing the number of Tavern, Licenses issued annually.
Would to God, Mr. Editor, such were the true cause: I rather fear however, it would be found upon a careful examination that there are more as many persons selling liquor throughout the County as in "years gone by" and that the falling off of the revenue from the decrease of the issue of Tavern Licenses is now attributable to the neglect of the Magistrates in bringing the open violator of the License Law to justice—-than from the progress of the Temperance Cause. If the Magistrates of the County do their Duty fearlessly and faithfully, why did not his worship in his address recommend the publication of a comprehensive statement of the County accounts?
Yours,
More Anon

Died
At. St. John, on Saturday Morning, after a severe illness, borne with exemplary patience and entire trust in her Redeemer, Mary Ann, aged 19 years, third daughter of Mr. George N. Smith, Artist, of that City.
[the foregoing obituary is copied from the Saint John papers. On repairing thither to pay our last obsequies to a beloved sister, we had the consolation to hear a universal expression of admiration for the genuine piety of the deceased, and a general sympathy for those who must feel most acutely the sudden loss of such an interesting and endearing young creature just blooming into life. Funeral sermons were preached at the various Methodist Chapels in the City and Portland, as she was a strict member of that Society and a teacher in the Centenary Sunday School. Her last hours gave ample and striking evidence of the triumph of faith over death and the grave. —Ed. Standard



Standard
May 14, 1845
The grand jury for the April Sessions of Charlotte finds the County accounts satisfactory in all its particulars.

. . . The Grand Jury would recommend that the Justices in Session pass an order, that every magistrate should on the second day of the Session, hand in a statement of all fines collected by him, and the disposal of such fines, whither paid to the Overseer of the Poor or to the County Treasurer, such Court should furnish such Magistrate with a copy of said order.

The Grand Jury bid to make some general remarks respecting the Collectors of rates. It appears to have been a plan adopted by the Collectors of Rates in many of the parishes, to retain the money collected by them to suit their own convenience, instead of paying over monthly to the County Treasurer as required by Law, thereby enabling him to make prompt payments and keep the County in better credit, this in the opinion of the Grand Jury is a sufficient reason that such Collectors should not be re-appointed to Office, and the Grand Jury further suggest the expediency of selecting such persons to fill this important office in whom implicit confidence can be placed, and also that they give sufficient bonds for the faithful performance of their duties, and that in no instance should a Constable be appointed to the Office.
The Grand Jury having visited the Gaol report that they find the Gaol clean, and so far as anything within the province of the Keeper highly creditable to the present incumbent, and should recommend that the several apartments be whitewashed, and that in future comfortable bedding be furnished to the Criminals.
The grand Jury suggests to the Justices, the propriety of directing the Commissioners of Highways for St. Andrews to commence legal proceedings against all parties who have enclosed any part, or trespassed in any manner, on the public streets within the town plot after giving due Notice.
The Grand Jury are of opinion that the sum of 17 pounds or thereabout paid by the Commissioners of the poor in the parish of St. Andrews for conveying Lunatics to the Asylum at Saint John should be assumed by the County and refunded to the Overseers of the Poor of said Parish.
The Grand Jury are happy to express their satisfaction at the prompt and courteous manner in which the Magistrates in Sessions have caused to be laid before the Grand Jury any papers required, also in giving every information within their power relative to the County, or parishes when requested,
W. Whitlock, Foreman

Standard
June 4, 1845
[editorial against encroachments on the streets.] Another serious nuisance that gives rise to much complaint is the practice of making compost heaps on the streets! Some of these heaps containing several tons of manure, from the decay of animal and vegetable matter of which they are composed, emit an intolerable stench. We cannot too strongly express our disapprobation of such a practice; and we are really at a loss to conceive why these offensive and disgusting nuisances are permitted to disgrace our streets, and to endanger the health of the people.

Standard
June 4/1845
Washington Hotel, Calais, enlarged and improved.
Steamer Portland, Capt. Rodgers. Once a week to Boston direct from Eastport, and once a week connecting with RR at Portland. Eastport-Portland Tues morn to 6

Standard
June 11, 1845
Mr. Editor,
I live in the country and know but very little of the town. I visit it only once a month, or perhaps not more than once in six weeks. Those visits I generally make upon what is commonly called the market day, as the country people repair in crowds to town, on Saturdays, to see their commodities, and buy their little necessaries.
If the proverb be true that "a great city is a great evil," you have not this to complain of, your town is not large, nor does it impose upon the country traveler by making a great show at a distance, a person on entering from the country can scarcely see it, till he finds himself in the midst of the hurry and bustle of the town. I believe it has quite a different appearance to one entering by water. But in justice to your town I must say that though it is small yet it is a very active place, all life and motion, the industrious farmer not only cultivating the town plots, with much taste and elegance, but also round the suburbs trusting the seeds to the bosom of the earth, securing favourable anticipations of an abundant harvest, these are never failing signs of industry and prosperity. Mechanics and tradesmen are hard to work—shop keepers clean and neat hanging out their goods no doubt to induce the buyer and in fact all I saw with the exception of a few diplomatic gentlemen, who seemed to have nothing to do, were in some one way or other throwing in their weight in order to enliven the scene and promote the good of St. Andrews.
I passed on to the Steam Sawmill, and truly I might say with one of old "the one half was not told me," it particularly charmed my attention and increased my astonishment. I tried to count the beams, posts, braces, etc., but this was a puzzle for I verily believe I might as well undertake to number the stars of the Milky Way. How thickly the pieces are planted in the frame, how well they are mortised, and how neatly they are jointed, surely think I to myself the man that framed it must have a head (as the saying is) as long as an Almanac maker—How imposing will be the sight when she is complete in all her appendages, her machinery all in motion, and the logs a-turning into deals as if by magic, this will repay the enterprising company, and also reflect much credit on the chief builder as well as the mechanician. I don't wish to tire my reader with a long letter; my intention in throwing these few hints is simply to induce some other pen better acquainted with the situation and prosperity, to enlarge on the subject in order to do ample justice to St. Andrews.

As I reside in the country, I am therefore the more acquainted with its peculiarities and intend in my next letter to give a short sketch of our leafy groves, verdant lawns, silvery lakes, and above all the gentle rolling breeze, which we have on the summer evenings, through the long twilight.
Yours etc., Septem

Standard
June 11, 1845
Fires
In our columns this morning, will be found accounts of the greatest fires which have taken place for some years, on this continent. Almost every mail we receive particulars of fires in the U. States. By the stage last evening, we learn that there are one or two bridges on the Saint John Road destroyed by this destructive element, and that the woods in every direction are on fire. In the neighboring town of Calais, upwards of six houses were burnt to the ground, on Monday night. The inhabitants of this town have been particularly fortunate in not being visited with the devouring element.

Standard
June 18, 1845
Iron Ship
The first iron ship that visited New Brunswick arrived here on Sunday last from New York, she is called the John Garrow, of 849 tons, and entered to load by J. and G. M. Porter of St. Stephen

Within the last fortnight two East India ships arrived at this port, the Lord Hungerford and China. The Lord H's crew consisting of 76 men, excepting the officers are all Lascars, and presented quite a novel appearance in their native costume. Rather a cool latitude, for these gentry, many of whom never wear more than a tunic.

Standard
June 18/1845
Port busy; large number of vessels arrived, staple produce of country in demand, laborers receiving high wages and scarce—new wharves erecting, steam mill approaching completion. "May the present prospect of returning trade be realized."

First iron ship to visit New Brunswick arrives in St. Stephen. Called John Garrow. 849 tons.

Standard
June 25, 1845
Large, overblown ad for New York Circus shortly to hit St. Andrews. Entire column of overblown rhetoric but very descriptive of what exactly will be offered. Like something out of Huck Finn.

Standard
June 25, 1845
Masonic
Yesterday being the anniversary of Saint John the Baptist, the Masonic fraternity of this place formed a procession from Mason Hall, accompanied by the Amateur Band, and proceeded to Church to attend Divine Service. After hearing an impressive discourse by Dr. Alley, they returned to their Lodge, and from thence to Driscoll's Hotel, where they partook of an excellent dinner. It gave us pleasure to notice a number of visiting Brethren from the neighboring towns of Eastport and Calais, in the procession, and we trust that they good feeling exhibited on this occasion may long continue and that "brotherly love and every Christian virtue may unite us."

To Our Subscribers
Our Collector will call upon such of our Subscribers as are indebted to us for the last year, with accounts when we trust they will pay them. Many are in arrears for upwards of two years, and some even more; these persons should remember that our expenses are necessarily large, and that we cannot meet them unless they "Pay up." Publishers do not live upon air, neither can they improve the appearance of their papers without means. Those who do not pay, will have their names struck from our list, and we shall try the majesty of the law. To such of our Subscribers as pay regularly we tender our acknowledgments, it is them alone, that have cheered us on our way, and enabled us to continue our publication, and no effort on our part shall be wanting to merit a continuance of their support. We intend purchasing new type, and publishing more reading matter, as soon as the debts due are paid.

Bazaar for the purchase of an organ for All Saints Church to be held.
Large and very detailed ad for New York Circus. Interesting acts described such as Herr Otto Motty, the renowned German Jugglers of Hamburg, human cannon ball feats, greatest drummer in the world, etc.

Standard
July 2/1845
Horoscopes: Life fates for people born in a given month. Eg: June: The man born now will be of a small stature, passionately fond of women and children, but will not be loved in return. The lady will be a giddy person and fond of coffee; she will marry at the age of 21, and be a fool at 45.

Standard
July 9, 1845
The Harmoneon family performed here on Wednesday Thursday and Saturday evenings last. The audiences were by no means large owing to the state of the weather. We must acknowledge that the public were disappointed; the singing was not such as was to be expected from professed singers, and the puffs which appeared in the papers. There was only one voice which was pronounced of any force—the bass, of Mr. Crosby, and the music was not only inferior, but principally of the American negro extravaganza style. We have quite as good, and some superior voices in St. Andrews to the either of the Harmoneons, excepting Mr. Crosby. The performances as Virginia slaves on a holiday, were well executed and drew forth much laughter.

Standard
July 30, 1845
"Church" in this Town, was held in the Town Hall on Wednesday last the 23rd inst. The Hall was decorated for the occasion with the good taste and neatness of our townsmen. Bowers of evergreen interspersed with flowers, were formed round the room in each of which were placed the tables. At the head of the room opposite the entrance, at the extreme right and left, were full length figures of Her most gracious Majesty Queen Victoria, and prince Albert tastefully decorated with roses, and in the center on a crimson velvet cushion was a large gilt Crown formed with flower and encircled in a wreath of roses intermixed with Thistles and Shamrocks which had a very pretty effect, and was universally admired. The tables were well filled with rare and in many cases elegant and costly articles. The Amateur Band who had kindly volunteered their services, played a number of favorite prices of Music during the day and evening, in their usual style, and formed a grateful addition on the occasion. We noticed a number of ladies and gentlemen from the neighbouring towns of St. Stephen, St. George, Eastport and from cities of Saint John and Fredericton who expressed themselves much pleased with the appearance of the Hall, and the arrangements generally. We are happy to add that upwards of 170 pounds as received upon the occasion.

Standard
July 16, 1845
Grist Mill. We learn that the enterprising proprietors of the Steam Sawmill are making preparations to erect a Grist Mill, in connection with the steam sawmill, which will be worked by the same engine. There can be no question but that a grist mill in the Shiretown must prove a great convenience to the country around, and particularly to the inhabitants of West Isles and a part of Saint George, who frequently having other business to town, will find it of great advantage, to be able to get their grain manufactures without the trouble to which they have heretofore been subjected—satisfied of the importance of the undertaking, the C. C. Agricultural Society, a love to the interest of the farmers, have offered a handsome bonus, to be paid on the Mill's going into active operation. "Speed to the Plough!"

Standard
July 23/1845
St. Andrews Hotel. William Ross. Formerly hotel of L. L. Copeland. Near Market Wharf.

Standard
Aug 6, 1845
We are informed by good authority that his Excellency the Lieut. Governor, has received communications from the British Government, respecting the construction of a Rail Road, from Halifax to Canada, through New Brunswick, for the purpose of conveying the Mails and troops if required. It is also reported that capitalists in England, would be willing to invest money in the construction of Rail Roads in these Provinces provided good security could be given. Want of time prevents us extending our remarks this week, but we shall refer to the subject in future numbers.
[first reference to future Intercolonial Railroad]

Standard
Aug 13, 1845
33d Regiment
Lieut. J. E. T. Quayle, who has been quartered here for the last eight months, in command of the troops, has been relieved by Lt. Pechell. Mr. Quayle during his brief stay among us, has by his bland manners and urbane deportment, won the respect and esteem of the inhabitants generally, whose good wishes he carried with him. We heartily join in wishing him a safe and speedy passage to the "sea-girt isle."

Standard
Aug 27/1845
Capt. Mitchener running new steamboat Nequasset between Eastport, Calais and St. Andrews.

Standard
Aug 27, 1845
Potato Crop
We regret to learn that the Potatoes crop in this County has been injured by rust and dry rot. Many of our farmers will be sufferers, as they have planted more than double the usual quantity of potatoes this year, for shipment.

Steam
On Tuesday last our old friend Captain Michener, formerly of the Frank, paid our inhabitants a visit in the new steamer "Nequasset," which has been purchased by some persons in Eastport, Calais, St. Stephen, and this Town, for the purpose of running on this river. The Nequasset is a fast boat, of 99 tons burthen, and 85 horsepower; the cabins are well fitted up and comfortable, which, with being commanded by an experienced and attentive master (Capt. Michener) will we trust, ensure her a remunerating patronage.

The Nequasset will leave Eastport every morning, (Sunday excepted ) for Calais, touching here and returns in the afternoon.

Standard
Sept 3, 1845
Article on the North American Railroad (projected). [future Intercolonial?]

On Tuesday afternoon it commenced raining, and continued during the night so heavy, that many fields of wheat and oats in this neighborhood have "lodged." The potato crop we regret to state is a total failure in this County—and from our exchanges we learn that there is a general failure of this crop, throughout the province. Many of our farmers will not even dig their potatoes.
IT is said that many people have been attacked with disease by using them for food; it would be well to examine the potatoes before eating.

Standard
Sept 10/1845
L. L. Copeland running thrice weekly mail stage (overnight) to St. Andrews-Saint John. W. H. Williams has contracted to run Royal Mails between St. Andrews/Saint John. Books at Saint John Hotel and Ross Hotel, St. Andrews.

Standard
Sept 10, 1845
C. C. Militia
On Thursday last, the right wing of the 3rd battalion under the command of Lt. Col. The Hon. H. Hatch, assembled at Indian Island, for drill and General Inspection. The appearance of the men under arms was neat and orderly, and the precision with which they executed the various maneuvers required of them, reflected great credit on their officers and elicited much praise from all present. . . . On Saturday last, the 1st Battalion assembled at the parade ground and went through a variety of evolutions in a very creditable manner. The Rifle company commanded by Capt. Stinson, and Sea Fencibles under Capt. Aymar, are a fine soldier-like body of men, and would do credit to any corps.

Standard
Sept 17, 1845
St. Andrews Steam Mill
It being announced that the "Engine" was to be set I motion on Saturday last, curiosity was on tiptoe to witness the first movement of the first Steam Engine set up in this County. In the afternoon, (the whole of the machinery being ready) the word was given "put on the Steam," and away it went in the most perfect manner, the whole of the machinery working to admiration; gratifying at the same time, the wishes and expectation of those more immediately interested, as well as the numerous body of spectators assembled to witness this, to most of them, novel sight.
Those who have had the best opportunity of observing the motion of Steam Saw Mills, pronounce the whole of this, to be equal, of not superior, to any similar establishment, in the Province; which adds to the fame previously acquired by Messrs. Barlow and Co. of St. John, the makers of the Engine, as well as to the credit of Mr. Williams the "Millwright," who has superintended that part of the work. We have on a former occasion, awarded the deed of praise to those gentlemen, whose enterprise and public spirit induced them to engage in an undertaking requiring the outlay of so much capital, solely for the benefit of the Town and Country, without the prospect of any immediate returns, and we are satisfied that only one sentiment prevails amongst the mass of the people in this Community respecting it, and that is, that their efforts may be crowned with complete success. May they go on and prosper.

Potatoes Crop
It is now ascertained to a certainty, that the potato crop in this County, with the exception of a very few patches, is a total failure. This crop has always been deemed of paramount importance, and the increased attention paid of late years to its cultivation, in this part of the Province, renders the loss of the crop, a serious calamity, and places many poor people whose sole dependence was on the potato crop for bread, in a very disagreeable if not distressing situation. It is to be hoped, that every pain will be taken to save as much seed as possible, in the County. Potatoes not fit for the table, will make good seed if not injured by rot, and notwithstanding the prospect of an immense crop in the Mother Country, and a good crop in Nova Scotia, may furnish seed if it can be paid for; yet, the means may not be so easily obtained, and although the country should obtain legislative aid, still it will be a very difficult to supply all who require assistance from that source alone.

Standard
Oct 1, 1845
Steamer's Signal
On and after Monday the 6th inst., the Steamer Nequasset, will be signaled at the Fort by a red and white flag. The white side of the flag will be upper most as she goes up the river, and the red side apparent as she goes down.

Petition being circulated to request Provincial government for aid after potato failure.

Daguerreotype Miniatures
Miss Holland informs the inhabitants of St. Andrews, and vicinity, that she has taken rooms at the St. Andrews Hotel, where she is prepared to furnish daguerreotype miniatures, plain or colored, and finished in the latest style, by which they are rendered perfectly distinct, and prepared to resist that action of air and light, without the possibility of being faded or changed. Price for a miniature done up in a handsome case, $3. Rooms open from 8 am until 5 pm. Ladies and gentlemen are invited to call and examine specimens or sit for their miniatures. Sept. 30.

Requisition
To the High Sheriff of the County of Charlotte
Sir,
A dispensation of providence, to which we are bound humbly to submit, having in the unfortunate blighting of the potato crop, cut off the supply of one of the most essential articles that enter into the common food of the county; we the undersigned, residents in the Parish of St. Andrews, conceive it to be the duty of every well-wisher in the community, to take in time, such steps as will be most likely to alleviate, if not altogether avert the great distress that must otherwise, in the course of the coming tedious winter, inevitably ensure; and therefore respectfully request, you will be pleased to call a Public Meeting in St. Andrews, at the earliest possible moment, for the purpose of concerting as to the measures necessary to be adopted to meet the alarming exigency.
We are, Sir, your obedient servants
[signed J. Boyd and 75 others]

In pursuance of the above requisition, I hereby call a public meeting to be held in the Town Hall, over the Market House, in St. Andrews, in St. Andrews, on Saturday, the 11th day of October, at 11 o'clock, for the purpose mentioned therein.
Sheriff's office, Sept. 29, 1845
Thomas Jones, Sheriff of Charlotte

Standard
Oct 8, 1845
To the Editor of the Standard
Sir,
I beg through the medium of your valuable Journal, to direct public attention, to the contemplated Railroad from Halifax to Quebec.
Assuming that the British Government and Capitalist wish for the most economical, shortest and best route to open the Canada's with the Atlantic Ocean and England, I at once venture to propose the line already explored and surveyed from St. Andrews to Quebec, by an order from the British Government, under Capt. Now Major Yule, of the Royal Engineers, in 1836, at which time an Act of incorporation was obtained from the Government of New Brunswick, and Lower Canada, which is still in force and may be acted upon. This survey and exploration, cost the British Government 10,000 pounds; plans and descriptions of the line, and report of the survey, are deposited at the provincial Secretary's office.

A glance at the accompany map, will shew the advantages St. Andrews possesses over the proposed line from Halifax; the distance by a direct course from St. Andrews to Quebec, being 193 miles, and by the line surveyed for Railroad about 275 miles, whilst the distance from Halifax to Quebec cannot be less than 550 miles.
The survey from St Andrews to Quebec was very favourably reported by Major Yule, in no instance exceeding 40 feet rise per mile from the level, well wooded, with fine groves of yellow, red, pine, and cedar, materials required in the construction of Rail Roads, and the lands in general excellent for the farmer and emigrant; added to these advantages the distance from Liverpool to St. Andrews, does not exceed 8 or 12 hours passage by steam, over that to Halifax, whilst St. Andrews possesses a safe harbour, accessible at all seasons of the year, contiguous to the American Frontier, where a Rail Road is now projecting from Calais to Portland, and Boston) and is more favourably situated for direct intercourse with the British West Indies, than any other Port in the British Provinces; these facts once know, cannot fail to engage the attention of the British Government and Capitalists.

This contemplated Rail Road from St. Andrews to Quebec would, in all probability, have now been in cooperation but for the interference of the American Minister at London, obtaining an order from our Government to the St. Andrews Rail Road Association, directing them "to discontinue their operations, in consequence of a claim made by the American Government, to Land through which the Rail Road would have them passed;" this difficulty can now be obviated by a small increase of distance in order to confine the line within British Territory.

Our present projected line will pass the flourishing town of Woodstock and the Grand Falls, on the River St. John. It is worthy of observation that St. Andrews is only 65 miles from Woodstock, and that Fredericton is about the same distance from Woodstock; consequently, bringing Woodstock nearer the seaboard by over 75 or 85 miles, than St. John.

The proposed line passes through a remarkably level country, few or no rivers to pass except the St. John, and it would appear nature had designed this line for a Railway, for the great outpouring of Canada to the Atlantic Ocean.
I am, Your Obedient Servant,
John Wilson.

Standard
Oct 15/1845
Standard Office removed to building opposite Market Wharf between W. MacLean's store and Mr. Sampson's shop.

Meeting in Saint John concerning Halifax/Quebec Railroad. Thoughts on cross-Canada railway. Fears Americans may do it first. Editor Smith hopes British NA will win the race, and should enter the race. The St. Andrews/Quebec project seems to have fallen into abeyance. Nothing much on the Border Question—seems still unsettled.

Standard
Oct 1/1845
Canada/NS Railway thought to begin active operations next June.

Standard
Oct 22/1845
Iron trade strong, due to demand for railroad rails. Electric telegraph being laid on Grand Junction RR in England.

Standard
Oct 22, 1845
Fire
The cry of fire resounded through our streets yesterday morning, about 10 o'clock, which was soon discovered to be in the shed and barn adjoining the house of Capt. Clements, and lately occupied by Mrs. Coldwell. Fortunately, the fire was got under before any damage was done to the House, but the shed and barn were much injured. The fire was evidently the work of an incendiary, there having been no person residing in the house for three weeks, and the fire must have been some time set before discovered, in consequence of the snow which fell during the night, retarding its progress—bad it had been otherwise, the house adjoining as well as the residence of D. W. Jack, might have been in flames before discovered. It is impossible to conjecture the motives of the abandoned being who could be the perpetrator of so diabolical an act; as private malice, or the hope of plunder could scarcely be supposed to operate under the circumstances; but it warns all, to be on their guard against similar acts. We heard some fault found with our fire wards, for appearing without their badge of office, in this instance, only one appeared according to law—with "staff and trumpet."

Standard
Oct 29, 1845
We beg to direct attention to an article in this day's paper, from the Medical Gazette, relative to the deleterious effects of using water which passes through lead pipes—the paper speaks for itself, and renders comment unnecessary.

Railroad articles thick and fast now.

Standard
Nov 19, 1845
Launched on Saturday last from the shipyard of Messrs. E and J Wilson a splendid through-built ship of 773 tons, called the Sea King. She is owned by Messrs. e and j Wilson and was constructed under the superintendence of Mr. George Gelly. [same yard in Chamcook mentioned in 1835 Rambles articles. Also many ships being turned out of Brandy Cove.]

Standard
Dec 3/1845
Smallpox raging in Baltimore. Many deaths. Railroad debate concerning proposed St. Lawrence—Atlantic Route. Extracts from Montreal Gazette of Nov. 12 and Neilson's Quebec Gazette of the 14th. Relative merits of using Halifax as terminus; St. Andrews relative to Saint John and Boston.

Standard
Dec 10/1845
Editorial summarized St. Andrews/Quebec Railway history and argues for St. Andrews as commercial terminus of proposed line to Quebec; concedes superiority of Halifax for a purely military line.

Standard
Dec 17/1845
Meeting in St. Andrews to revive proposed St. Andrews/Quebec RR Association of 10 years past. St. Andrews closer by 60 miles than Saint John and by 250 miles than Halifax, editor.

Standard
Dec 17, 1845
Railroad Meeting
The "Acting Committee of the St. Andrews and Quebec Railroad Association," request a public meeting at the Town Hall on Saturday the 27th inst., at non, for the purpose of adopting such measures as will promote the objects of the Association.
J. H. Whitlock, Secretary
St. Andrews, Dec. 15, 1845