Item
Standard
Jan 5/1870
More on railroad scandal.
Standard
Jan 12/1870
Henry Osburn asks Standard not to publish railway timetables henceforth and not to supply any more newspapers. Editor reacts.
G.E. King 1870-71
Premier of New Brunswick
Conservative
1870
Standard
Jan 19/1870
A public meeting of the Inhabitants of St. Andrews was called by requisition to the Sheriff, "to take into consideration the proposed railroad extension from Woodstock to Rivière du Loup . . . . The meeting was held in Russell's Hall, last evening, and was largely attended. The Sheriff was requested to take the chair, and explained the object of the meeting, after which the following resolutions were moved and passed unanimously.
Moved by J. W. Street, and seconded by George F. Campbell, and carried:
"Whereas there is a project of extending the railroad from Woodstock in the County of Carleton, New Brunswick to Rivière du Loup in the province of Quebec, thus uniting that rich province with the seaports in the Bay of Fundy, as was the original intention of the St. Andrews and Quebec Railroad Company,
"Therefore resolved, that this meeting most heartily approve the undertaking, and pledge themselves to use every effort with the members of our Local Legislature, in order to induce them to grant aid in this instance to this proposed undertaking, as they have done to other lines of railway in this province.
Moved by W. Whitlock, and seconded by John S. Magee, and carried.
"Whereas the people of this section of the province of New Brunswick have for years used every exertion to secure railway communication with Quebec, and to give it rapid and easy access to the Atlantic and having secured the approval of the Legislature of Lower Canada for this object, we feel that we still have a claim on them for material aid in carrying on a work, which will be so beneficial to them and the western sections of this province, and which will give connection with the railways of the United States, and open up a rich and fertile tract of country for settlement which is not otherwise accessible.
Therefore resolved, that we further pledge ourselves to use all the influence in our power, with the General Government of the Dominion, for the same purpose believing as we do that this extension will be highly advantageous to this province generally, to the western section particularly, and to the Province of Quebec, to which will be secured a short, safe, and expeditious outlet to the Atlantic, and connection with the network of Railways of the eastern parts of the United States.
It was moved that the Sheriff leave the chair, and that B. R. Stevenson, M. P. P. take the same.
The unanimous thanks of the meeting were then given to the Sheriff, for his able conduct as chairman.
Statements have been industriously circulated by opponents of St. Andrews, that "St. Stephen capitalists own all the Railway bonds." This is about as correct as another assertion that they own all the lands. Let us examine: the Lands owned by the English Bondholders in Charlotte County amounting to 7000 acres were sold at Sheriff's sale in May 1867, and were bought in for St. Stephen capitalists but up to this day have not been paid for; the deeds still remain in the Sheriff's office, and will be handed over only when the purchase money is paid! This statement is not made under cover of correspondence, and we challenge contradiction. It is currently reported that these lands have been operated on for the last two years, and large quantities of lumber carried off. Is not this a most outrageous act, and one which merits unqualified condemnation, if not legal correction. Were the English Bondholders made aware of this fact by their New Brunswick agent. If not, they know by this time.
The bold assertion openly made at St. Stephen last week, "that the people of St. Andrews cannot succeed nor accomplish anything in the course they have taken to complete the running of the trains as they know St. Stephen owns the line"—is a piece of sheer humbug. It requires more than the boast and bluff of inimical and interested opponents to convince St. Andrews people that they cannot succeed, or that the Line is owned by Capitalists in St. Stephen. That some of the Bonds are held here cannot be denied; and that Bondholders in England have sold all their right to the Railway, at a sacrifice, will require better authority than the ipse dixit of the diplomats who went home to misrepresent the real value of the railway. The fact of a line costing 800,000 pounds being bought for 60,000 is too large a mouthful for people to swallow, particularly when it can be shown that the Line has paid working expenses and something more.
The New Brunswick Railway schedule shows that only the St. Andrews City Station section has been curtailed: "The skeptical will now be convinced that there is a determination to close the St. Andrews end of the line although the trains still run twice a week. The uncertainty of the line being kept open has prevented merchants here filling orders for Houlton, if the articles ordered are perishable."
Public meeting held to push for completion of New Brunswick Railway to Riviere du Loup from Houlton.
Standard
Jan 26/1870
Proofs can and will be adduced to show the incorrectness of such statements, published by interested persons to cloak their unhallowed designs. "Acting under instructions" may serve as an excuse for the time to conceal the real design; but the questions arise—were these "instructions" (if given) based upon correct information from a reliable source? Were proprietors' interests consulted and promoted, and was even-handed justice extended to the businessmen of the Town, and others whose preferences were in favor of transacting their shipping business at St. Andrews? These questions have been answered in the negative by persons said to be well informed; and cases have been cited to show that positive injustice has been practiced. It is also stated that for months the plant has been removed quietly to St. Stephen, but in such a manner as not to awaken suspicion of the ultimate object. All the locomotives with the exception of a small one have also been sent up the line, and should a heavy fall of snow occur, the trains could not run. Are not these facts evidences of the intention to close this end of the railway, months before public notice was given to that effect. The people generally do not believe that the assigned reason was the real one. Why was not this end of the Line which had paid its way repaired if it was required; why lay down new rails and repair one portion of the line for the benefit of a certain locality to the disadvantage of others? Such positive unfairness is apparent to the most casual observer. Honor and justice are confined to the narrow limits of some men's pockets—their sole object appear to be to benefit themselves and make money at all hazards.
The course adopted with reference to the stoppage of the trains (which by the way are still running) has been disastrous to trade and travel here. Cargoes intended for this port, and passengers, have gone to Saint John, for transmission by rail to the upper country; and the policy has not made the promoters richer, but injured their neighbours.
It was a doubtful proceeding to pull down and remove a strongly constructed large building, centrally situated, which could be sold to advantage if it was not wanted for railway purposes. This piece of vandalism led to the same remonstrance on Monday morning last, and had it not been that wise counsel prevailed, it is probable a very unpleasant occurrence would have taken place. The most peaceable and orderly are not always able to control themselves under provoking circumstance. Such a proceeding would not have been tolerated in any other part of the County. How long, O how long will the people's tempers be tried.
Standard
Feb 2/1870
The railway, or rather that portion of the main line between the junction at this branch and the terminus at St. Andrews has been closed for the winter. . . . Is it not surprising then, that after the amount of money expended in its construction—their influence with the govt to take stock—the large expenditure of capital in this erection of buildings and wharves, among the latter a steamboat landing expressly to the Railway, and doing business over the line— that they are resolved to maintain their rights by legal means?
Notice of discontinuance by Osburn.
Standard
Feb 9/1870
Trains to be discontinued for six weeks.
Standard
Feb 16/1870
Story by Camilla Willan, "A Water Cure," from Ballou's Monthly Magazine. Features summer farm boarders. Ref to the alternative, "a styled hotel," etc. . "They all went down to the shore, and stepped into the boat, all the summer boarders at Mrs. Beal's farm, ten of them, five ladies, and five gentlemen. But there were eleven of the party; for it would never do to overlook Prince Charles. . . . This is a company of city folks who are spending a few weeks in a plain country place, and enjoying themselves much more than if they were at some styled hotel where all their time would be spent in dressing and dancing."
Standard
March 2/1870
Call for summer hotel by "Observer," and ref to state of affairs in Mount Desert. . Also ref. to new hotels in Fred and Saint John.
Mr. Editor: I saw a notice some time since, that the large Hotel in Eastport has been leased, is being fitted up and will be opened about the first of April. What is to prevent St. Andrews from having a Hotel of sufficient attraction and accommodation for summer visitors? Nature has done everything for this place; it has delightful walks and drives, the scenery is beautiful, with bays and lakes teeming with fish. What more is required to attract visitors here—nothing, except some house of sufficient capacity to accommodate them; and it lies with the people of St. Andrews to say whether they will have four or five hundred visitors to spend the summer and their money here, as it is well known that pleasure seekers spend money freely; or will they go on in the same old way and let one after another of their advantages slip by, and then grumble at hard times and the cars on the Railway not running? If not, then let them see to their interests, and not let other towns go ahead of them. Let the world see that St. Andrews is not dead—let it see that we have live men in it yet.
Look at Mount Desert Isle, in Maine; it has twelve hotels with a prospect of more. Eight or ten have been built within five years, while we with so many attractions have not built one. There are enough small hotels for the travelling public, but we want a good, large nice one, of modern style—one to be proud of, and in a few years, more would be built by private parties. Let us wake up to our true interests.
Yours,
Observer
Railroad Management for the Benefit of the People!
How is it? Here we have a number of our coasting schooners in the harbor waiting employment, while there are several cargoes of railroad sleepers hauled out along the line, of which two or three cargoes at least should have been shipped by this time, and realized from. There is also a large quantity of pig iron to be delivered at St. Andrews. Why are not the cars running to St. Andrews and this freight brought down, as in former seasons, when the winters were much more severe than the past has been? The severity of the past winter, advanced as an excuse, was to say the least, a mere pretext. The track we learn is nearly or quite clear of snow and ice. The only answer we can honestly give, from current report, is that there was a determinate intention to divert from this port to St. Stephen . . .the petition of the people has been received by the Legislature, and an investigation will be entered into by the Railway committee, which will, it is generally believed, bring out the facts, that will confirm the people in the opinion, that there has been an effort made to divert the trade of St. Andrews from its legitimate channel.
Standard
March 16/1870
The Railway investigation before the Legislative Committee, commenced yesterday; the proceedings and result will be looked forward to with great interest by very many in this County. Some of the witnesses left here early on Monday morning last by Stage for St. Stephen, from whence they would take the cars for Fredericton. While waiting for the departure of the train, they were kindly received by St. Stephen people, who expressed a hearty sympathy for them, and wished success to them in the efforts to obtain their rights. For be it understood, that outside of that little coterie termed the "Land Ring," and "Calais Bridge Co.," the people of that locality are liberal and independent and accord to the inhabitants of the Shiretown all the privileges they possess and would, if requested, aid them in protecting their interests . . . . They have felt the potent influence of money, and its iron rule, but are free men, and do not fear to act or express their opinions openly, upon public question . . . It remains for them now to decide whether the new Bridge is to be built, which will make Calais the terminus of their railroad, and forever sweep away the cherished hope of having the terminus at St. Stephen.
Standard
April 20/1870
Schooner "Nettie" launched from Smith's Shipyard—88 x 26 feet. 118 tons. Master builder James Starkey. Owners J. Watson (our James), J. W. Street, A. D. Stevenson , P. Quinn, D. Budge, Capt. N. Clark, J. Burton, M. Andrews (also captain of vessel). June 22—laying keel for 300-ton vessel "at the building yard, near the railway," seems to be a new business—Starkey's.
Standard
June 22, 1870
New Vessel. We are happy to learn that Mr. Starkey, the builder of the "Nettie" is laying the keel of a new vessel of upwards of 300 tons, at the building yard, near the Railway. It is to be hoped that every encouragement will be extended to our young friend in his efforts to establish shipbuilding at this Port, where so many large and fine vessels were built formerly.
Standard
July 6/1870
A. MacKenzie, leader of Opposition, brother C. McKenzie, and D. A. MacDonald, M. P., arrive by steamer, enjoy sea-bathing and St. Andrews scenery. Admire Chamcook, scenery, waterpower and farms. Tilley on same boat proceeds to St. Stephen.
Standard
August 1870
Franco-Prussian war in full swing
More Fenian raids?
Standard
Aug 17/1870
Aroostook "Pioneer" makes mention of Kennedy's Hotel, which editor of Standard praises for itself and its proximity to "one of the best sea bathing places in the Province."
Schooner launched at Lubec. 118 feet. "Nellie Staples." John McBride, builder.
Standard
April 24/1870
Brunswick House. Sign of the Plough and Anchor. King St. St. Andrews. Opposite Record Office. The subscriber has fitted up the above house, for the accommodation of permanent and transient boarders. By keeping a good table, paying strict attention to the comfort of his guests, and moderate charges, he hopes to secure a share of the public patronage. Good stabling on the premises. Edward DeWolfe, Proprietor.
Standard
Aug 31/1870
Calais Advertiser and many other buildings destroyed in large fire. News brought to St. Andrews by C. C. Bridges.
Town Well
We have been requested to direct the attention of the authorities to the disgraceful condition of the street near what is commonly known as "Berry's Well," and the careless practice of throwing dirty buckets into the well, which is now the principal source of the water supply for a large portion of the town. It has been suggested that a large pump be placed in the well which when covered over would prevent filth from accumulating in the water, and to some extent be a saving in the waste which occurs daily. This is a subject which requires immediate attention, as water is becoming scarce daily, and the benefit to the people would, in a sanitary view, far overbalance the cost of erecting the pump.
Standard
Sept 14/1870
Passamaquoddy House—proximity to the public offices, Railway and steamboat landing, make it convenient for visitors. Stable on premises. E. McLeod.
Standard
Sept 28, 1870
New Building. Mr. Robert Ross has recently erected and nearly finished a handsome store and office, with a large shed attached for storage of coal, iron, etc. The finish on the building is highly creditable to our townsman, Mr. Thomas Wren, who we believe was the architect and joiner; and its appearance since it was painted is showy.
Standard
Oct 5/1870
Wanted at SG—a hotel where travellers can get their grub at seasonable hours, and with a stable where horses can get their oats. Great complaints are made by travellers of the Hotel accommodation at this village. A little opposition would probably mend matters. The field is a good one. Our "devil" tells us that some Americans are about starting a hotel. If such be the case, travellers may now find things more to their taste, and the village no longer deserve the character given to it by a celebrated Canadian some six weeks ago—"A good place to leave, but a poor one to stay at."
Standard
Oct 26, 1870
Railway News
We are pleased to learn that Mr. Ketchum's visit to England in connection with the Railway to River du Loup has been successful. The line is to be surveyed without delay; an English Engineer is on his way out to this country for this purpose. The "missing link" will thus be supplied, and the intentions of the originators of the St. Andrews and Quebec Railway will be at length an accomplished—viz. a direct line of Railway from the seaboard at St. Andrews to Quebec, affording to Canada an open winter seaport in British territory.
Standard
Nov 9/1870
Houlton Branch Railway opened.
Standard
Nov 16, 1870
The River du Loup Railway exploration is being carried on. The engineer recently from England, with Messrs. Pickard, Temple, Inches, Gibson, Thompson and others have started over the proposed route to Quebec and a report of its feasibility and benefits from its construction will shortly be made. This line is bound to be built. [Boss Gibson here?]
Standard
Dec 14/1870
A. Elson, in rooms opposite Kennedy's Hotel, taking likenesses in all weather.
Standard
Dec 21/1870
We notice that a new extension is in course of construction from the Railway near the old Steamboat wharf below Messrs. Odell and Turner's property to Robinson's Wharf, formerly known as Aymar's. Mr. Robinson is also having his store, recently occupied as the Telegraph Office and Aymar's Store, fitted up for a large wholesale and retail mercantile establishment.
Standard
Dec 28/1870
Review of year, esp. New Brunswick Railway problem. .
Never perhaps did a year open with gloomier prospects ahead for us, than that which is drawing to a close; never were gloomy anticipations more agreeably disappointed.
In December last, notice was given by the manager of the New Brunswick Railway, that the running of the trains over this end of the Line would be discontinued after December 31 Standard of last year. That announcement raised such a howl of indignation throughout the whole Eastern section of the County, that both the Manager and his prompters deemed it judicious to yield to it, and the trains were after a short interval run as usual. The long-continued series of attempts, covert and open, of a half a dozen men in St. Stephen to utterly annihilate our track reached its climax in the announcement referred to. Owing to the public spirit of half a dozen men in the community, this grand final effort of theirs was defeated. To that plucky half dozen too much credit cannot be given, for we believe their efforts turned the tide in our favor, at the most critical point in the history of the Town. The great development of communication with the interior will render any similar attempt impossible, in future; henceforth we will have the whole of the upper Saint John River counties as our allies in the "Battle of the Towns."
At the beginning of the year, both Town and Country were still labouring under the effects of the terrible storm which had but lately swept over our county, carrying death and destruction with it. Trade was dull—"nothing doing' was the complaint of the day. The croakers were predicting ruin, desolation and the speedy arrival of the time when our houses would be abandoned to the owls and bats, and our streets to be beasts of the forest. The hopeful scarcely believing their own words, maintained that something would turn up. Northing tremendous or unusual did turn up, and the ruin and desolation never came; and now on reviewing the course of events since that time, we can safely say that few towns in New Brunswick have during that period enjoyed more general prosperity and business success than St. Andrews.
Our labourers and mechanics have found ample employment at good wages, throughout the year. Our merchants report trade as having been good and increasing; they have supplied the people with goods at as low rates as they can be purchased in any town in the Province. Our trade with the Islands has largely increased, as also the dry goods trade with St. Stephen and St. George. Messrs. Odell and Turner, whose stock is not surpassed in the County. Stevenson , Magee, Bradley and others, can show large and well selected stocks in their line. Real Estate has increased in value; houses are in demand. There is not a vacant tenement of the better class, for which more than one bid has not been offered. There is more money in the Savings Bank than at any pervious time in its history. The fact speaks for itself; we have nothing like poverty in our midst; and all this if we are "a race of paupers."
The past season has been a remarkably unhealthy one in North America, but sickness has not come nigh our dwellings to any uncommon extent. Temperance has spread her banner, and flourishes in our midst, and to her we owe much, very much. Our good old town is a quiet place; life and property are perfectly safe with us; we need no policemen.
If even our St. Stephen friends think of moving, we invite them to come this way and taste of our good things, and they will find that, despite the utterances of unprincipled Christians, we are no heathens, and that St. Andrews is just as good a site for a terrestrial paradise as can be found.
G.E. King 1870-71
Premier of New Brunswick
Conservative 1870