Item
Standard
March 9/1853
Fire. We are called upon this week to chronicle a rare occurrence in St. Andrews—the destruction by fire of eight houses, which were principally occupied as stores and dwellings. On Thursday night, about half past 9 o'clock, the inhabitants of the town were aroused by the ringing of the bells and the appalling cry of fire, which was discovered issuing from the roof of the store occupied by Mr. M. J. Elliott as a refreshment saloon, on the Western side of Water Street. The flames spread so rapidly that it was deemed impossible to save the adjoining buildings occupied as stores by Messrs. D. Bradley, C. E. O. Hathaway, and Francis Waddell. Mr. Waddell also resided in the same building commonly known as "Happy Corner." The fire spread with fearful rapidly to the houses on the same side down William Henry street to the harbor, and it was not without great exertions Mr. Bradford's hotel (only separated by a narrow lane from Mr. Bradley's store,) was saved, not without damage to the end next the fire, which had ignited, but was quickly put out by the engines constantly playing upon it while water was to be had; and we believe that, had it not been for the supply obtained from the tank in the house of G. F. Campbell Esq., the whole block would have been reduced to ashes. The goods which were promptly removed from the stores have been so much damaged that the greater part are unsaleable. The probable value of the houses is estimated at about 1300 pounds. We understand that upon the goods and houses destroyed, there are policies for upwards of $2850. This much we must say that the firemen, populace and military worked hard of their own accord, to save the property from the devouring element. The management or rather want of management and order at the fire, needs no comment. The fire is said to have originated from a defect in the chimney.
Standard
March 16, 1853
Railroad now being worked a distance of 25 miles from the town. Engines have been running over the bridge at Chamcook for some months.
Standard
April 6/1853
James Clark to run schooner packet between St. Andrews, Boston, and NY. J. C. Waid by name, 125 tons.
Capt. Balson lives in church block. April 13/1853
New fire engine from NY.
Standard
April 13, 1853
New Fire Engine. The new fire engine and hose carriage, built in New York for the fire wards here, arrived last week, and was landed "in good order and well-conditioned," as per bill of lading. The newly formed company, whose services have been accepted to man the engine, took charge at once, and after having put it together, run it down the street in gallant style, and lodged it in the present, temporary building. Several trials were made of its power in throwing water, which we are happy to say have proved the engine to be a superior one. We cannot say as much for the hose, which burst in one or two places; these defects, however, can soon be remedied. The fire company is an excellent one, composed of young men belonging to the town—with J. Little, captain; H. Ames, 1st Lieut.; and George Moore, 2nd Lieut. Should their services be required, we are safe in saying they will prove themselves equal to the task, as the company is composed of hale, hearty, spirited young men, who are neither afraid nor ashamed to work, and both are able and willing.
Ornamental Trees
As the season is near at hand, when trees should be set out, we suggest to the authorities of the our Town, to purchase a few hundred ornamental trees, such as elms, horse chestnuts, locusts, larch, etc., and have them planted at proper distances on each side of the principal streets, or at least some of them; and also around the public squares, with proper guards to protect them from being injured by cattle. This might be done at a comparative trifling expense and would be a great improvement as well as add to the appearance of our streets. The plant of setting out trees has been adopted in Boston and other large cities and gives the streets a picturesque appearance. In the village of Milltown, we observed some months ago trees set out on the sidewalks which had a very pleasing effect and added materially to the looks of the place. Many of our forest trees would answer the purpose: elms in any quantity can be obtained at Digdeguash, and horse chestnuts, oaks and ash can be raised here as well as in Massachusetts. Our neighbours S. H. Whitlock, Esq., and L. Donaldson, Esq., have native grown elms, chestnuts, etc., raised from seed, and what one can do, another may. We trust these hints will meet with that prompt attention, which we believe they merit.
Standard
April 20, 1853
Sea Bathing.
One of the most delightful situations to be found in this province, certainly net excelled if equally, is within ten minutes' walk of St. Andrews—near the old Pottery on Joe's Point Road. The place is well known to invalids who have visited this town for the benefit of pure air and bathing. The beach is hard, composed principally of pebbles and clear sand, and the situation as romantic as it is beautiful. At a trifling outlay commodious baths might be erected, with the usual appurtenances, and there cannot be a doubt, but many persons would be induced to visit St. Andrews during the summer, for the purpose of enjoying the luxury of sea bathing, breathing the pure air, and partaking of the hospitalities of the place. The baths cold be built in a short time, and fitted up in proper style, and would pay. Who will move in the matter?
Standard
April 27/1853
Arrival of Laborers. On Wednesday evening last, upwards of 100 navies arrived here, via Boston, from England; and, after being well provided for, were sent up the line in Messrs. Sykes and Co.'s wagons to work on the St. Andrews and Quebec Railway. In the course of a few days another large lot of emigrants are expected, having been sent out by Messrs. Sykes and Co., who are determined to push the work forward with all possible speed.
The property commonly known as "Happy Corner" on Water and William Henry streets, containing one lot and a half, was sold at public auction yesterday, to Mr. D. Bradley, for 400 pounds. This site is said to be one of the most eligible stands for business in St. Andrews, and adjoins the property owned and occupied by Mr. Bradley pervious to the late fire.
Coffee house from Castine apparently located at Happy Corner—Diana Rees.
Standard
May 4/1853
Thomas Watt's house on Water St. burned. Locomotive Pioneer running at least as far as Chamcook.
Calais House kept by C. A. Brown.
Standard
May 11/1853
260 labourers from Liverpool via Saint John. Steamer Eastern City running between Saint John and Boston weekly, touching at Eastport and Portland.
Standard
May 18/1853
Projected monster steamer in Boston—700 feet long, 3,000 passengers, trip to England 5 days; 5000 horsepower.
(St. Andrews has been on tourist itineraries since at least 1848. See Osgood's guide.)
Standard
June 1/1853
St. Andrews has no steamer of its own. "We have the opinion of an intelligent correspondent, and several businessmen, that a steamer plying between Saint John and St. Andrews would pay well, as there is freight and travel sufficient to employ one steamer at all events, and as the trade is growing, we believe that a steamer on this route, and running once or twice a week to St. Stephen and SG, the speculation would prove a remunerative one. Saint John has several steamers plying to Fred and the Band, one even to Hampton, and one to NS; while Fred has 3 or 4 running to Woodstock.
"Patriot," ed. Mr. Lorimer, appears in St. Stephen.
Citizens praised for planting ornamental trees in streets.
Standard
June 8/1853
New Montreal newspaper, Sun, argues for railway diverging from proposed Grand Trunk to Riviere du Loup to connect with St. Andrews line at Grand Falls, thus completing line to St. Lawrence.
No. 1 Torrent Fire Company
On Monday evening last, the Company belonging to Torrent Engine, turned out in their new uniforms with the Engine and hose carriage, for the purpose of trying the Engine. They marched up Water Street and presented a very neat and orderly appearance; the dress is a fireman's cap painted black, with a guard of triangular form in front, on which is gilded the figure 1; blue shirt with red collar and facings, dark overhauls, fastened with a broad leather belt. Several experiments were made with the Engine as to its capacity in throwing water. With upwards of 150 feet of hose a large stream was thrown over Mr. Street's two-story brick house, and with 80 feet of hose a steady stream was thrown into and over the belfry on the Scotch church, a distance of 70 feet. In fact the Engine gives entire satisfaction, and we may add, that should the services of the gallant Company be called into requisition, that fine body of men will be found "ready" and willing to do their duty.
Standard
June 15/1853
St. Andrews RR progressing rapidly. "A more delightful ride by rail cannot be enjoyed, than to take the morning train at 5 am, pass up the line, inhale the pure air, and return by seven o'clock."
Ad for furniture by Robert Nisbet. Mahogany and walnut chairs, mahogany, walnut, pine and cherry Bureaus, tables, and bedstead, sideboards, couches and sofas, dressing tables washstands. "The above articles are made of the best materials and by the best workmen, and cannot be surpassed in the province." April 1853
Standard
June 22/1853
Gas. With his usual enterprise and spirit, John Wilson, Esq., has introduced gas into his mansion at Chamcook. We understand that the entire cost of the gas at Chamcook, including fitting up stove, retort, condenser, refiner, gasometer, pipers, and 14 burners, the cost of the coal, fuel, etc., used in making the gas, is about 1s. 6d. per week; less than 2 ½ d. per night while candles would cost on an average 1s. 3d. per night, besides the heat arising from gas light warms the rooms, while coat tar and coke are produced in its manufacture.
Steamer Fairy Queen plying between Charlottetown, Biddeford, Pictou and Shediac for PEI mails. "This route besides the facilities it affords to travellers to and from PEI is now the cheapest from the eastern part of NS to the US; in addition to this it also presents attractions to the summer tourist, from the variety of scenery presented." Saint John Courier
Direct RR line from Albany to Saratoga Springs.
Both Jones and O'Neill have homes, stores and a wharf in town.
Standard
July 13/1853
Siamese Twins. These world-renowned curiosities will be exhibited, or to use the words of the advertisement, "will give a levee" at the Town Hall, in this place on Friday next, 15th inst., attended by two of their children. As this will be the only chance of seeing this great physiological wonder, all should avail themselves of the opportunity.
Steamers Eastern City and Admiral will commence leaving Saint John and Boston at 8 am and 11 am MWF, touching at Portland both ways M and W. Connecting with fast steamer James Porter at Eastport for St. Andrews, Robbinston and Calais.
Standard
July 13/1853
Bldgs. formerly occupied by James Ross as hotel, fronting on Water Street, for sale; later Madras or Jones property.
Bathing Houses—we have said again and again that it would prove a profitable speculation to erect a temperance Bathing establishment. There are a number of places well adapted for such purposes in the vicinity of the town, one of which we may mention, viz between the NW end of the town and Joe's Point, on land owned by the hon. Col. Hatch. The beach at Nahant does not surpass it, and a more secluded and beautiful sport is not in New Brunswick. The expense of erecting a building for bathing would be trifling. Several families in Saint John and Fred would visit this place annually, to enjoy this luxury, and breathe the pure air of our healthy town, were there accommodations for them. In addition, they could enjoy a ride on our railway several miles up the country; and return again in time for breakfast or dinner as they thought proper.
Standard
July 13/1853
Dentist in town for two days only. At Bradford's Hotel. June 22/1853
Poem "St. Andrews."
Standard
July 20/1853
Quick travelling—a friend who resides in this place, left Montreal on Monday morning last, and arrived in St. Andrews on the afternoon of the following day! The distance from Montreal to Portland, 292 miles, was performed in 12 hours, including stoppages. He came by the first train, which runs the whole distance on the St. Lawrence and Atlantic Railroad.
Standard
July 27/1853
More labourers for railway, with families. 60 men. Envy of Saint John, getting nowhere with ENA.
Standard
Aug 3/1853
Torrent Fire Company gives torchlight procession, with engine elaborately decorated by ladies of town, drawn by two white horses. Parade through streets. Collation at Bradford's Hotel. Dancing till dawn. Biggest event in 20 years. Nice description. .
Torchlight Procession: As stated in our last, want of time and space precluded an extended notice of the late Torch Light Procession of Torrent Fire Company, No. 1. We think the affair demands a more particular description at our hands, as being the first of the kind our town ever witnessed and also most creditable to the parties concerned.
Torrent Company has been organized but a few months, and has charge of one of Smith Piano Engines, which will compare favorably as to finish and execution with any machine of its size in the province. The company is composed of young men of the town, and we think it no unseemly boast to say, that for zeal, activity and good conduct, they are excelled by none. Their willingness and endurance were, we think sufficiently and satisfactorily tested at the fire which consumed Mr. Watt's house.
This company a few weeks ago, resolved on making a demonstration, either by a trial excursion among the brethren on the river, or in such other manner as might be generally acceptable; and at last fixed upon a Torch Light Procession. At sunrise, on the morning of the 26th ult., the flags from the bell tower of the Town Hall gave the signal of preparation. At a house somewhat later, the unusual display of flags across the streets excited the curiosity of our good people, most of whom could not tell why the crosses of St. George and St. Andrew, with Erin's green banner, were floating over their heads as they passed along. The heaps of flowers continually arriving, and the multifarious preparations, gave note that the "Boys of the Fire Brigade," were about.
The day, which had been gloomy all through, settled down at evening into a most appropriate darkness, and the fun commenced. The largest crowd that has been assembled in our town for the past 20 years gathered around the Engine-house, impatiently awaiting the appearance of the Machine. At a quarter before 9, the Engine, most tastefully and beautifully decorated with such flowers as St. Andrews ladies know how to bestow—and drawn by two splendid white horses, made its appearance in the square, when the Procession was formed as follows: —
BANNER.
Officers, with Branch Pipes.
THE MACHINE.
Band.
Members, two and two, with torches.
Banner.
The procession started from the Engine House,—passing through the principal streets, and halting at different localities where stunning cheers were given for the ladies who had so liberally favoured the company with flowers and decorations. On returning to the Engine-house, after three hearty cheers for the Queen, the firemen repaired to Bradford's hotel, where an excellent collation awaited them and their guests, the fire wards with other gentlemen of the town. After the usual amount of feeding and toasting, the company were enlivened by songs or speeches. But the charm of the evening was the singing of the Quartette Club of the Company, which was entirely unexpected by the guests, and was perhaps the most pleasant surprise of the whole. The company and guests separated soon after 12 o'clock, each and all highly gratified with the evening's entertainment—Some of the "boys," however, having procured a . . . and music, danced the sun up.
The decorations of the engine elicited admiration in all quarters. The band, with one exception, was composed of members of the company. The whole affair was the most pleasing we have ever witness in this place and the general impression of the close was that Torrent Fire Company were of the right stamp.
Rare visitor to St. Andrews—fog.
Standard
Aug 10/1853
Montreal Herald—Canada in Grand Trunk will soon possess largest RR in world. St. Lawrence-Atlantic (leased for 99 years) a part of whole.
Standard
Aug 31/1853
5,000 dead in New Orleans last ten weeks of yellow fever.
Standard
Sept 7/1853
Another engine for RR arrives.
Standard
Sept 14/1853
A Steam Tug. We learn that the enterprising people of St. George intend building a steamer for the purpose of towing vessels, rafts, etc. This is a move in the right direction, as such a boat is much required. It is generally admitted that a steamer of this description would pay. We trust our townsmen will not allow themselves to be outdone in the mater, but that they will either build or purchase a steamer for this purpose immediately, which might be profitably engaged, when not towing, in carrying passengers and freight to the out ports, and also Robbinston. Travellers to and from the US might then drive their carriages on board the steamer, and land either at Robbinston or St. Andrews. Besides, many persons would be induced to visit Charlotte County during the summer, when they know there are travelling facilities to convey them to the beautiful islands in the Bay, SG, Digdeguash, etc., and in addition, to enjoy a pleasant ride on the railway several miles through thriving settlements and forest scenery, and inhale the pure and healthy air for which this County is celebrated.
A large number of the inhabitants of St. Andrews and vicinity left the town yesterday morning by steamer for Saint John , to witness the ceremony of "Digging the first Sod" of the European and North American Railway this day. Some parties went up in wagons for the same purpose. His Excellency issued a proclamation declaring the day a Public Holiday.
First turning of sod today in Saint John for ENA. Public holiday declared. Robert Stevenson to take part. Canada, Nova Scotia, PEI and NFLD represented. 300 people up from Boston and two bands.
Brewery complete. Thompson and Co. to start production next month. 400 men at work on RR. 11 miles complete. Much more graded. More labourers coming.
Standard
Oct 5/1853
RR almost to Rolling Dam. Unfriendly words between St. Andrews and Saint John over whose RR will be tops—St. Andrews/Q or ENA via St. Lawrence/Atlantic.
Standard
Oct 12/1853
Cholera spreading in England.
Standard
Oct 12/1853
Editor calls for an icehouse "for the purpose of supplying ice, to private families and Hotels, during the summer months, as is the custom in other places." Saint John has four.
Prolific shipyard Robbinston for long time.
November 2/1853
Jeanie Johnston arrives in St. Andrews
Standard
Dec 14/1853
Second engine called North Star. Running for a week.
Standard
Dec 12/1853
Moses Kethro, Hair Cutter and Wig Maker. Shop between O'Dell and Turner, and Dimock and Wilson.