Item
Beacon
Jan 11, 1900
A lad named George McCarty, who refused to stay where the Alms House Commissioners placed him, but persisted in making his bed in barns, hay-mows, pig-styles and the like, was sent to Jail last week for thirty days for vagrancy.
Sardine Syndicate Amalgamated
A dispatch received here on Saturday evening stated that on that day the consolidation of the two sardine syndicates took place, the standard merging into the Sea Coast, Co. The details of the transaction which involved a capital stock of eight millions of dollars will undoubtedly be completed this week when the Sea Coast Co. will practically control the sardine business as it now exists.
Beacon
Jan 18, 1900
Interesting letter from Trooper Mallory
Through the kindness of Mr. W. E. Mallory, Beacon readers are permitted to read the following admirable letter from his son, Trooper Edward Peters Mallory, who enlisted at Saint John for Africa:—
[This letter dated Jan.10, 1900, from Halifax. Accompanying photo courtesy of Harold Climo, St. John. Mallory is 22 years old, and his troop is No. 4 Troop, B. Squadron, Canadian Contingent. He sends home many letters over the next few months. After his return he became a CPR man of importance in Montreal, as Harry Mallory remembered]
The Owen Hotel, once the residence of the late Admiral Owen, and later of Capt. Robinson Owen, and one of the most interesting historical spots on Campobello, is to be opened the coming season by Mr. A. L. Towle, of Boston.
Beacon
Feb 1, 1900
David McCoubray is getting out one hundred tons of Chamcook ice for Sir William Van Horne. He has also been awarded the contract for supplying the Algonquin Hotel.
It is stated that owing to the congested state of the CPR at the ocean terminus in Saint John, the railway people are considering the advisability of shipping an African hay cargo from St. Andrews. This would be a good idea. [The hay would be for horses in the Boer war, all in the news for the last few months] [Letter from trooper Mallory in Halifax in this or previous issue; photo of him in January issue]
Alms House Matters
The members of the Alms House Commission for 1900 were sworn in on Friday. R. E. Armstrong was chosen chairman and B. F. DeWolfe secretary. It was decided to dispense with the numerous committees which have hitherto controlled Alms House matters and make the full commission a committee of the whole to attend to all business that might arise. All requests for relief, etc., will have to be made through the Secretary. In cases requiring immediate attention and in unimportant cases the Secretary and the chairman are authorized to act together. Other cases will be considered by the full board. The secretary was authorized to ask for tenders for medical attendance, also arrange for the purchase of fuel. The secretary and Chairman were named as a committee to purchase such staples as flour, meal, sugar, tea, etc., at the best terms possible. The commission will meet on Friday of next week.
Beacon
Feb 8, 1900
Lord Strathcona, who is equipping a troop of Canadian soldiers from his private purse to aid Great Britain, is a citizen of St. Andrews, being the owner of large piece of property here. St. Andrews people feel particularly proud of the broad-spirited patriotism of their distinguished fellow-citizen. [Strathcona's Horse]
Beacon
Feb 22/1900
John Webber, who looks after Sir William Van Horne's big horses on Minister's Island, was trampled upon by one of them the other day and quite painfully injured. He is able to be around again.
New Summer Cottage
While in Montreal last week, Mr. F. H. Grimmer completed the sale to Mr. Edward Maxwell, architect, of the late P. S. Stevenson lot on the Bar road. Mr. Maxwell has the plans ready for his proposed summer cottage and expects to occupy it the approaching season. Mr. Robert Stevenson will be the builder.
It is satisfactory to the people of St. Andrews to know that the Algonquin Hotel will open the approaching season under more favorable auspices than ever before. With the new and powerful friends who have come to its aid, St. Andrews summer interest should boom hereafter.
Mr. F. H. Grimmer, who went to Montreal last week in the interests of the Algonquin Hotel, returned home on Thursday well pleased with the result of his mission. [Concerning loan of 10,000 from Shaughnessy.]
Beacon
March 1, 1900
Lord Strathcona's Last Princely Gift
One of the most princely gifts contributed by a single individual to the assistance of the empire in the present African crisis has been the troop of Canadian horsemen, which has been equipped by Lord Strathcona, Canadian High Commissioner in London, and known as "The Strathcona Horse." This is not the first time that Lord Strathcona has made a public contribution of a noble character, nor is it the first time he has given a practical demonstration of his devotion to the empire. The troop of horsemen, which he has equipped from his private purse, are picked men, the very flower of our western manhood—men who have been brought up in the saddle, who have been almost born with a rifle in their hands, and who have spent the greater part of their lives in the rough and tumble experiences of the western prairies. There can be no finer body of men anywhere and no expense has been spared to equip them with the most effective accoutrements of war.
Perhaps a word or two about the man who has contributed this princely gift may not be amiss at this time. Sir Donald Alexander Smith, Lord Strathcona and Mount Stephen, G. C. M.G. these are his full titles), was born in Morayshire, Scotland, in 1821. Like most young Scotchmen he received a good English and classical education: Medicine, says his biographer, was the subject to which he was at first attracted, but he relinquished this pursuit and in 1938 entered the service of the Hudson Bay Company. His first assignment was at a place called Mingan, one of the most desolate spots on the desolate coast of Labrador. The qualities of indomitable energy and stern self-reliance, which have marked his career as a public man, were even more marked as a servant of the Hudson Bay Company. He was advanced step by step, until he reached the exalted position of local Governor for the Hudson's Bay Company. Only a man of extraordinary character could have gained such a position under the circumstances. His name first appeared in Canadian history when the transfer of the North-West territories was under negotiation. He was at that time Governor of the H. B. Company. When the Red River Rebellion broke out in 1869, Mr. Donald A. Smith was appointed a commissioner by the Canadian government and empowered to proceed to Fort Garry and endeavor to settle the difficulties which had arisen. With such tact did he perform the delicate duty assigned to him that he succeeded in bringing about the sending of delegates to Ottawa and a temporary suspension of hostilities. For these and other services he was in 1886 created a Knight Commander of the Order of St. Michael and St. George. Mr. Smith had the distinction of being the last resident Governor of the H. B. Company. Subsequently, for several years, he was chief commissioner of the Company and afterwards Governor of the Board of London. He was appointed a member of the first Executive and Legislative Council of the North-West Territory. In 1870 he was elected the first member for Winnipeg in the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. On the final admission of Manitoba to the Canadian Confederation he was, in 1871, elected to the Dominion parliament as member for Selkirk. In 1887 he was elected for Montreal West, and represented that constituency until he was appointed High Commissioner in 1896. He was appointed to the Peerage by the Queen in 1897. One of the most important periods in his life was that in which he was connected with the building of the CPR. In 1880, in conjunction with Sir George Stephen and others, he undertook the construction of the road, and so rapidly and effectively did they perform their work that in 1885 he was privileged to be present at the driving of the last spike.
Among the princely benefactions of this wealthy Canadian Lord have been the following:—$500,000 to the Royal Victoria hospital, Montreal, in commemoration of Her Majesty's Jubilee; $320,000 toward Female Higher Education in Montreal; and $100,000 for the founding of the Royal Victoria College for women, besides many smaller amounts for charitable enterprise. In 1888, when the summer resort movement first seriously began in St. Andrews, Sir Donald Smith became a property owner here. He also invested of his means in the Algonquin Hotel. Though he has never been able to carry out his idea of erecting summer residence in St. Andrews, he is still in sympathy with the ambitions of the place.
Mr. Joseph McVay, of St. Stephen, has secured the contract for the new CPR station buildings at McAdam. They are to be built of brick and stone, at a cost of about 30,000 dollars.
Mr. E. L. Andrews's home on Minister's Island was the scene of a gay party of young people on Friday night last.
Beacon
March 15, 1900
Sir William Van Horne's poultry show has arrived from Montreal. It embraces peacocks, guinea hens, pea hens, geese, ducks and a variety of other barn yard fowl.
Beacon
March 17/1900
The New Brunswick Telephone Company proposes connecting Saint John with some of the leading points in Charlotte County this summer. Contractor Barnes, of Buctouche, who is plotting the line, left Saint John on Thursday and got through to St. George on Saturday. From St. George a line was plotted to Bonny River. On Tuesday, Mr. Barnes, with Mr. Hoyt, the chief lineman, was at Kennedy's hotel, St. Andrews, and after remaining here a few hours drove to St. Stephen, which place will also be connected by the telephone line. Mr. Barnes said work would be begun on the Saint John end the first of the month. It would take six weeks or two months to wire to SG, Bonny River, St. Andrews and St. Stephen. From St. Stephen the company will connect with Calais. This will bring them into direct connection with the American business, and will put in a four-wire line.
Beacon
March 22, 1900
President Shaughnessy of the CPR has been able to present the shareholders of the Company with a highly satisfactory report of the Company's transactions in 1899. The gross earnings for the year were $29,230,038. Deducting working expenses of $16,999,000, the net income was $12,000,000 as against $15,000,000 in 1898 and $13,000,000 in 1897, and $12,000,000 in 1896. It is worthy of remark that the years 1894 and 1893 both show a decline over the preceding year, 1893, while in 1896 the receipts of the road began to boom again, and have kept increasing with very year. No better criterion of the progress of the country since 1896 could be afforded than this. The report, from which the above figures are quoted, says that to meet the requirements of the increased trade of 1899, an expenditure of over one million dollars in excess of the appropriation made a year ago was made for cars and locomotives. The growth of the company's business calls for an enlargement of the facilities at Winnipeg. A new passenger station with hotel in connection will be provided there, entailing an estimate expenditure of $750,000.
Beacon
March 29/1900
Sir William's Farm
A Glimpse at the Interior of the Big Barn—Some of its Occupants
While Sir William Van Horne is extending his interests on the island of Cuba his farming interests on Minister's Island are growing apace. A Beacon reporter dropped in upon Superintendent D'AlMaine on Monday and found him up to his eyes in business. In the "cow parlor," the belted Lakenfelds were busy masticating the sweet-smelling ensilage, while in separate apartments were a number of young Lakenfelds. They are growing finely and look as pretty as pictures. Two of the youngsters came into the world without their white belts. This omission will debar them from polite Lakenfeld society, and may lead to their utter condemnation. They appear blissfully ignorant of their neglect and its direful consequences and romp around as playfully as their aristocratic companions. In the equine drawing room, six magnificent Clydesdales and three other horses made the welkin ring with their whinnying. Three of these beautiful mares are in foal. The big Clydesdale stallion is recovering from his indisposition of last summer and will soon be able to take a trip to Sir William's western farm.
Nor was the smaller fry about the farm less demonstrative. A ferocious Tamworth sow, with three little brownies by her side—all that is left of a litter of thirteen—challenged the reporter's entrance in a noisy manner and showed a disposition to resent his inquisitiveness. The meek-eyed sheep, surrounded by their little toddling lambs, viewed him with more favor. The peacocks fled to the peak of the barn to escape being interviewed and could not be coaxed from their perch. The snow-white turkey-gobbler drew his back up until he resembled a rotary snowplow in action, while his dainty partners retired to the seclusion of the cabin. The guinea hens likewise resented the intrusion into their domicile and dinned the reporter's ears with their objective cries until he was glad to escape out of hearing. They are very pretty birds, but their note, which resembles an oxcart which needs oiling very badly, is not calculated to make them popular on the farm. A big African gander, with a neck like a boa-constrictor and a voice like a trombone, was next introduced to the reporter. But he and his mate showed a decided aversion to cultivating new acquaintances. Their scolding might have been heard halfway to St. Stephen. There are several fancy varieties of hens on the farm. They were so busy laying eggs for the incubators that they did not have time to show the visitor much attention.
Mr. D'AlMaine is preparing the hot house for duty and in a short time it will be in active operation. Other work about the farm is well advanced.
Beacon
April 12, 1900
Sir William Van Horne is having two sardine weirs erected on the shore of Minister's Island. They will be looked after by Frank O'Halloran. [cf. the photo in the Archives showing weirs at shore; photo by Townend, 1910. Inside door]
"Poor-House and Palace," is the title of a pamphlet issued by W. Frank Hatheway, the well-known merchant of Saint John. It is a plea for more equitable distribution of wealth and contains much good reason and sound argument.
Beacon
April 19, 1900
Sir William Van Horne's handsome Clydesdale mare Nelly presented him on Sunday with a pretty little filly sire, Sir Robert . Two more Clydesdale mares are now on the way here from the West.
Beacon
April 26/1900
Another Clydesdale colt, dam Signet, arrived at the Van Horne equine harem on Sunday last.
New Summer Cottage
Mr. Maxwell, of Montreal, the First to Usher in the Summer Season
The summer cottage, which Mr. E. E. Maxwell, architect, of Montreal, is having built for himself at the eastern extremity of the Bar road, is being rapidly pushed forward by the contractors, Messrs. Stevenson and McKenzie. A glimpse at the plans reveals a modest structure, with hipped roofs, somewhat after the Queen Anne order of architecture. It is two storeys in height, with a piazza on the front, which faces towards the summer residence of Sir William Van Horne. The house covers an area of 18 ½ by 38 feet. The living room of the house is located in the centre of the main building. This room is 16 x 20 feet. A red sandstone fireplace will occupy the rear end of the room. On the left of the living room, is a reception room 8 x 18 feet, with a doorway opening from the side towards the railway, track. The stairway to the upper floor is at the back of this room. The right-hand side of the central room encloses a bedroom and a pantry. Upstairs, there are two bedrooms and a large dressing room and a bathroom. The kitchen, measuring 12 ½ by 20 feet, is in a measure independent of the main building, being connected with it only by a pitched room. Provision is made for a ten-foot driveway between the two buildings. There will be a servants' bedroom off the kitchen. The space over the driveway between the roof and the floor will be utilized as a trunk room. This will be entered from the main building upstairs. There will be no plaster on any of the rooms, the ways and ceilings being composed of planed matched sheathing. Mr. Maxwell expects to occupy his new residence on the 24th of May.
Steamer Rose Standish Burned
The steamer Rose Standish—or the greater part of her—went up in smoke and flames on Friday night last. She was laying on the gridiron, at the Lower wharf, Calais, receiving repairs at the time the catastrophe occurred. Before the flames were subdued, the top works of the steamer were demolished, and the hull considerably wrecked. The flames communicated to the freight shed on the wharf, and the greater part of it was burned. The steamer was valued at $20,000 and insured for $12,000. There was some insurance on the shed. The Standish is the fifth steamer of this Company to pass through the ordeal of fire within the last twenty years. Their names were the Queen, Belle Brown, J. M. Todd and Charles Houghton. The Todd was afterwards rebuilt and for several years has been doing duty as a barge in the winter season.
Beacon
May 3/1900
Lord Strathcona has just contributed 25,000 to the Ottawa relief fund.
Another letter from W. E. Mallory's son in South Africa. Also photo. E. P. Mallory.
It is the intention of the Algonquin Hotel Co. to add a large number of improvements to the hotel before opening this season. To increase the supply of fresh water another artesian well will be sunk and outside tanks for its occupation erected at the hotel. The present tanks will be placed in thorough repair. The piazza will be refloored, the roof repaired and the interior of the hotel Kalsomined and the foundation renewed where it has begun to settle. The improvements will be carried out under the direction of Mr. Robert Stevenson.
The dance held on the evening of April 24th in the Owen Hall, proved a very pleasant and enjoyable event. Since the new proprietors have taken charge of the Owen, a new stage has been built and other improvements made, so that the Hall is now all that could be desired.
Beacon
May 10, 1900
The Alms House Commissioners, at a special meeting held on Saturday evening, decided to supply the Alms House with a sufficient sewer. Tenders will be invited for the purpose.
More letters from trooper Mallory.
Sir William Van Horne is determined that his country seat, Covenhoven, shall be more beautiful than has been. He has sent a practical gardener here from Montreal, who is now engaged in laying out parterres, plating shrubbery, etc.
Beacon
May 17, 1900
The time is at hand when the government of Canada should be casting around for another Canadian Atlantic winter port. The port of Saint John is already being taxed almost to its utmost limit, though the Intercolonial terminal facilities are yet incomplete and the shippers of the west have only begun to find out that here is such a port as Saint John. Judging by the rapid growth of trade at that port, three years will not elapse before Saint John will be running at its full capacity and another handy port on Canadian soil will be needed. Such a port may be found at St. Andrews. It possesses all the needed natural advantages; all that it lacks are the facilities, and these the government should assist in providing. It is the duty of our people to press this matter upon the government, regardless of their political affiliations. By an earnest and united effort something for the benefit of the place might be accomplished.
The Montreal Star gives the CPR a lot of credit for the development of the port of Saint John. It is undoubtedly entitled to a share, but if it had not been for the faith and works of the people of Saint John, who spent over a quarter of a million dollars before they could persuade the railway people to invest a single dollar, and the assistance in the way of ocean subsides received from the Dominion government, it would not be much of a winter port even yet. The CPR have it in their power to make St. Andrews one of the most prosperous ports on the Atlantic coast, yet they will not spend a dollar in its developing. If the people of the place could provide the facilities for business, or prevail upon the government or somebody else [Sir William?] to provide them, we have not the slightest doubt that the railway would pocket the profits and the credit just a s they are doing in Saint John.
Big Granite Boom
SG Red Granite Men Expecting Great things in the Near future.
Details.
Beacon
May 24/1900
A new well for the Algonquin is being sunk alongside the pumping station.
Beacon
May 31/1900
A coal barge, in tow of the tug Springhill, with coat for the CPR, arrived on Thursday night and is now being discharge at DeWolfe's wharf.
The contract for the construction of the sewer at the Alms House has been awarded to John McFarlane and Edward Cummings at 35 cents per foot. This includes the providing of drainpipe.
First Algonquin ad for season:
"The Gem of the Atlantic Coast"
Ocean Bay, River and Mountain Scenery combine to make one of the most picturesque spots in the East.
Elegant appointments, cuisine and service.
Rooms with baths; steam elevators, orchestra; telegraph, golf course, etc. (18-hole golf course not mentioned)
Daily rail connections with Montreal, Boston and other points.
A splendid flow of good water for the Algonquin Hotel has been reached at a depth of 122 feet. The hotel has now two artesian wells from which to draw its summer supply. The new well was bored by T. R. Kent.
Beacon
June 7/1900
The CPR has furnished evidence of its interest in St. Andrews by sending two of its officials here to write up and illustrate the place. Last week, the town was honored with a visit from Mr. George Ham, of the advertising dept. of the CPR, and Mr. E. Clarke, its chief photographer. While Mr. Ham secured an abundance of material for a write-up, Mr. Clarke photographed many points with which to illustrate the pamphlet the company is proposing issuing. Among the points photographed were Fort Tipperary, the Algonquin Hotel, a bit of the Bar road, a view from the end of the Bar road looking across towards Chamcook basin, Minister's Island, Covenhoven, the golf links, the town from Joe's Point, the Blockhouse and fort, the courthouse, churches, etc. About 25,000 pamphlets will be sent out within the next fortnight. These ought to attract many visitors to the place. [This is the panoramic brochure. cf. July 5/1900]
Another letter from Trooper Mallory
Beacon
June 14/1900
McAdam's New Station
It will be a thing of beauty and a Joy forever, though now surrounded by swamps.
Half a mile to the westward of the present station at McAdam is the new station that is being constructed by Mr. Joseph McVay, of St. Stephen, for the CPR. The one story that is now almost completed indicates that the new building will not only be a large and substantial one, but a remarkably handsome structure as well. It will be two storeys in height, with a middle section of three stories. From this middle section a tower will point heavenward. The ground area of the building is 36 x 133 feet. There is a basement averaging ten feet in depth. The walls of this basement are composed of three feet of solid granite, so that the foundations will be sufficiently ample for all demands likely to be made upon them. The walls of the main building are 20 inches in thickness. The interior weight is supported by immense iron girders, which are firmly founded in granite.
The building will serve a double purpose. The western half will be utilized as a hotel and restaurant, while the eastern section will be used for distinctively railway purposes. On the main floor, hotel section, will be a lunchroom 20 x 30 feet, with a dining room opening off it, 30 x 30 feet. The opposite end of the main floor will be taken up with waiting rooms and closes, ticket agents' office, express and baggage room.
On the second floor of the hotel section there will be a ladies' parlor, waiting room, bathroom and bedrooms. The railway section will embrace operators' rooms and rooms for the superintendent, agent and customs officer.
The third story, the area of which is 36 x 50 feet, will be utilized as sleeping rooms.
The basement will be employed as a kitchen, scullery, engine-room and for the storage of coal.
The building will be composed almost entirely of white and grey McAdam granite. The corners are being ornamented with Welsford red Granite. Broad, arched windows on either side furnish light for the main floor. There will be doorways opening out to the track on either side.
Mr. McVey, whose contract covers only stone and mason work, has about 30 hands employed. He is performing his work in a thorough manner.
It is the intention of the railway company when the building is completed to beautify its surroundings. At present there is little to attract the eye but woods and swamps. With a miniature lake on one side of the track, and unlimited room on the other side for adornment there is no reason why the situation should not be made a very beautiful one. The plan of McAdam contemplates the laying out of a number of streets and roads in the near vicinity of the new station. Already, corner lots in the new town are being taken up.
Another letter from Trooper Mallory
St. Andrews Summer Homes
And Some of the People Who Occupy Them [illustrations of cottages reproduced from July 6, 1893. Covenhoven still the same size as in that illustration. Engraving does not show addition of 1894]
In a few weeks, St. Andrews will be in full costume, with its comfortable hotels and its stately as well as simple summer homes occupied with pleasure seekers or with men and women in search of rest and renewed health.
Of the permanent summer residents, Mr. J. Emory Hoar, of Brookline, Mass., deserves to rank among the first. Mr. Hoar is one of St. Andrews earliest summer visitors. Before the tide of summer travel had begun to set this way, before the stately Algonquin was dreamed of, and before a single summer cottage had been erected, Mr. Hoar counted himself a subject of the Queen and amenable to the Queen's rule—in the summer. That he has found this rule a very pleasant one has been shown by the punctuality of his visits. So far as the Beacon knows, Mr. Hoar has never missed a summer in St. Andrews since he became the possessor of the summer home he now owns here. This beautiful summer dwelling occupies the rising round just outside of the town and commands an unexampled view of bay, and island, a river, to say nothing of the view of the town itself that it commands. Embowered in trees, ornamented with lovely flower beds, "Risford" is a typical summer abiding place. Within its comfortable walls and amid its beautiful surroundings there have been many a gay party during the years that have passed. Now that the evening of his life is drawing on, Mr. Hoar is more than ever in love with his summer home. He expects to come here in a few days to occupy its.
Another summer home that St. Andrews is very proud to have within her borders is Sir William Van Horne's abode on Minister's Island. Without doubt it is the most beautiful lounging spot within the borders of Canada. It is saying a good deal for St. Andrews that its owner, who had the whole Dominion to choose from, should finally select this place as his summer dwelling place. On Minister's Island he obtains what the soul of a busy man must long for occasionally—perfect repose. And this amid the most beautiful, most romantic surroundings. When the tides have swept over the bar which connects the island with the mainland—and which at low water and half-tide affords the means of communication between the two places,—Sir William feels that the has shut himself out from the busy world and that he can settle down to enjoy perfect rest. This rest he does not find in idly sleeping the moments away, but in sketching, in superintending the varied interests in connection with the fancy farm he has established on the island, in collecting and classifying specimens of fungi, in arranging his flower beds and walks, in a variety of other ways. Sir William is no idler; not even in during his restful moments can he waste his time. His summer home is one of the most beautiful and yet one of the most simple that can be imagined. It is in perfect keeping with its occupants who combine all the graces of refinement with that perfect simplicity and gentleness which mark the true man and the true woman. Their hospitality during the summertime is boundless. Covenhoven, as Sir William's country seat is termed is now ready for occupation and its tenants may arrive at any moment.
Another summer resident who St. Andrews feels honored in possessing is Rev. Alexander T. Bowser, of Wilmington, Delaware. Mr. Bowser has not been a resident of St. Andrews many years, but during the few years that he has been living here he has got very near to the hearts of its people. He has established one of the coziest and yet most beautiful summer houses that can be found anywhere on the elevated ground adjacent to the golf links. It is also in close proximity to a beautiful bathing beach. The prospect from its broad verandah is picturesque in the extreme. To the left is the town, nestling amid the trees, a veritable sleeping beauty. On the right, the golf ground, with its velvety sward, stretches away towards the woods, while in the middle distance harbor and island and river complete a picture of rare loveliness. Not the least attractive features of "Cedar Croft" are its beautiful house and ground. In Mr. and Mrs. Bowser and their two bright lads are combined qualities of heart and mind which made their summer home little short of an earthly paradise.
Though not owning a summer home here, Mr. and Mrs. George R. Hooper, of Montreal, have been among St. Andrews "steadiest Company". This year, as for several years past, they will occupy the very pretty cottage to the west of the Algonquin Hotel. St. Andrews is always pleased to greet this worthy couple.
Lazycroft, the summer home of Mr. George F. Innes, the celebrated American artist, will not be tenanted by him this year, because he proposes spending the season in Paris, but in Mr. T. G. Shaughnessy, the general manager of the CPR system, it will have a tenant who will be a very welcome one. Mr. Shaughnessy has been a property owner and a taxpayer in St. Andrews for several years, but he has never yet spent a summer here. It is to be hoped that he will find life so pleasant in St. Andrews this summer that he will be seized with an unconquerable desire to permanently establish himself.
A popular summer resident of St. Andrews is Rev. Dean Sills, of Portland, Maine. He has been a part of St. Andrews life so long, and he is so intimately associated with it by family and other tries, that he people of the town look upon him as one of themselves. He has been looking forward with keen anticipation to the early occupation of his pretty little summer home alongside the rectory, nor have the pleasure of anticipation been all on his side.
Mr. T. R. Wheelock, of Boston, and Shanghai, will not open his elegant summer cottage at Victoria Terrace this year, having been detained in 'China by business interests. This is greatly to be regretted, was he is one of our most active summer residents. He will be greatly missed among the golf players, as well as in other directions.
Mr. Donald MacMaster, the distinguished Queen's Counsel of Montreal, will tenant "Rose bank," this season, with his family. Mr. and Mrs. MacMaster and their little family are no stranger to St. Andrews, having spent several summers here. Mr. MacMaster has recently acquired a building lot in St. Andrews, and it is possible that one result of his visit this season will be the erection of a summer home thereon.
The latest summer cottage to be erected at St. Andrews is that of Mr. E. Maxwell, architect, of Montreal. Mr. Maxwell, as architect for Sir William Van Horne, had occasion to visit St. Andrews last season, and he became so infatuated with the place that the determined to erect a summer habitation for himself. This determination he has just carried out. His cottage is a neat little structure and is located on the lot of land at the eastern extremity of the Bar Road, just below the CPR track. It commands a view of rare loveliness. Its nearness to the beach makes it especially desirable. Mr. Maxwell is providing his home with all modern conveniences, such as bathroom, acetylene gas, etc., and when completed it will be one of the coziest and prettiest little spots in the neighbourhood. Mr. Maxwell's family will arrive in few days.
Mr. W. D. Hartt and family, of Tallahassee, Florida, are always welcome summer residents. Mr. Hartt was formerly in business in St. Andrews, but though he has long since severed his business relations with the place, he has never forgotten his first love. He loves its picturesque surroundings, he loves its healthful climate, he loves the old flag which waves over it, and he loves St. Andrews as s summer abiding place. His comfortable summer home within the town is already occupied by himself and other members of his family and before many weeks slip by still other representatives of the family will arrive to occupy it.
It is expected that the Algonquin Hotel cottage and the cottage belonging to the estate of the late Robert S. Gardiner will both be occupied this season.
Beacon
June 21/1900
St. Andrews is fast becoming the summer port of Montreal. Why not the winter port too?
New Brunswick—It is a pleasure for us to greet the CPR as a summer friend. We are glad that the Company is manifesting an increased interest [Shaughnessy's influence via loan of money to Algonquin?] and we appreciate the efforts that it is putting forth to advertise the place. But when it says, through its summer circular, that the people of St. Andrews are content to live out a dreamy existence as summer resort keepers it says what is far from the truth. We are not content with being hewers of wood and drawers of water, and furnishers of pleasure for the summer visitor. We want to be something more than this. We want to be a growing, not a declining, [census] community; we want the splendid natural advantages of the place to be recognized not only in summer but in winter. We have a harbor here second to none on the Atlantic coast, with railway connections equal to any in Canada. We want this harbor utilized; we want our advantages employed; we want to be in line with the march of progress around us, and we want the CPR to aid us in realizing our ambition. It is in the power of that company to render us this assistance, and in the rendering of it quite as great pecuniary benefit will accrue to them as to the people of the place. As we have stated, we are glad to greet the CPR as a summer friend. We will be doubly glad to greet them as an all-the-year-round friend. [Put this in as an insert]
A steel tower, 50 feet high, is being erected alongside the boiler house of the hotel. This will form the resting place for a water tank fourteen feet high. With this large tank and with the abundant supply of water that the new well gives it, the hotel is not likely to suffer from a water famine in the future.
The CPR will land 10,000 tons of coal here, instead of 5,000, as originally planned.
Miss Van Horne came down from Montreal with a staff of assistants on Monday to open up Covenhoven.
Mr. E. Maxwell's family from Montreal are in their pretty cottage, Bar road.
McMaster family now in "Rose bank."
Beacon
June 28/1900
Another letter from trooper Mallory.
Some very flashy turnouts will be seen on the streets of St. Andrews this summer. On Saturday, six horses and three ponies with carriages arrived from Montreal; five of these belonged to Sir William Van Horne. Two to Mr. A. R. MacDonnell and two to Mr. T. G. Shaughnessy. The latter are very diminutive chestnut stallions. They are both stylish and speedy.
Mr. Frances Howe, who will be house manager for the lessees of the hotel, arrived on Friday with his wife. Mr. Hubert Stinson, chief of the bell-boy staff, is also on deck.
The Fredericton Tourist Association has issued a handsome booklet bearing upon the summer beauties and attractions of the Celestial City and it environs. Fifty-six pages are employed with the story and the half is still untold. The letter press is from the pen of the late Frank H. Risteen. It is embellished with many attractive illustrations.
Beacon
July 5/1900
Hugh Allan and family back Algonquin again this year.
Shaughnessy's occupying Innes cottage.
The C. P. R. booklet, descriptive of the summer beauties of St. Andrews, is a most attractive work. The letter press is written in a charming vein and describes very minutely the many attractions which St. Andrews has to offer the summer sojourner. The most artistic part of the pamphlet is the illustrations. These embrace a view of over three feet in length of the town from the Algonquin, also a number of smaller sketches, all of which are very truthfully portrayed.
Beacon
July 12/1900
Among the equine turnouts now to be seen on the St. Andrews streets are those of Mr. Hugh Allan, the steamship magnate; Mr. Charles R. Hosmer's, Mr. Smith's and Mr. Hope's, all on Montreal.
Sir William Van Horne has just been making one of his flying trips to St. Andrews.
The elevated tank for the Algonquin Hotel is now completed. [well sunk earlier alongside pumping station] From the town it looks like a thimble set upon a pole. Nevertheless it has a capacity of 7,000 gallons. W. H. Donovan connected the tank with the hotel on Friday last.
The Algonquin orchestra this season is composed of Miss Florence Percival, piano; Miss Blanche Percival, violin, and August Suck, cellist. The Misses Percival were at St. Andrews two years ago.
L.J. Tweedie 1900-07
Premier of New Brunswick
Liberal Aug.31, 1900
Beacon
July 19, 1900
Shaughnessy family summering in St. Andrews.
Albert Denley's team of horses backed into DeWolfe's slip on Friday afternoon, falling a distance of twenty feet into the mud. They were able to resume work afterwards.
Sir William Van Horne intends erecting a bowling alley and making some additions to his house and barn on Minister's Island. Mr. Robert Stevenson will likely do the work for him.
Beacon
July 26, 1900
The CPR is going to establish a big coal dump at Saint John.
The DeWolfe wharf is the busiest corner in town, the coal shipments keeping a large number of men employed.
Mr. R. B. Van Horne is enjoying himself at Covenhoven. He will spend the summer here and in the autumn will leave for Cuba where he will take a railway position in connection with the lines Sir William is interested in.
Beacon
August 2/1900
Sir William Van Horne arrived at Covenhoven last week.
Another Boer War Letter from trooper Mallory.
Indian Sensation—Lola Assaults his wife and is Arrested. She afterwards denies the assault. Details
The Campobello Hotels are being well patronized.
Golf Tournament—St. John golfers have a very pleasant meeting at St. Andrews. (details of golfers, etc.)
An excursion party on the boat Juanita under the auspices of Mr. W. P. Fuller of San Francisco, accompanied by Beales orchestra from Eastport, Maine, spent a very pleasant evening at the Owen Hotel last week. After a bountiful dinner was served the company retired to the ball room where a dance was indulged in for the space of a few hours. Then the party set sail for home well satisfied with the manner in which they had been received by their host and hostess.
Beacon Aug 9, 1900
General Manger Shaughnessy, of the CPR, came to St. Andrews on Saturday in his new private car "Manitoba." The coach is just fresh from the maker's hands, and is a remarkably elegant vehicle.
Beacon
Aug 16/1890
Hon. R. R. Dobell
Pays a short visit to St. Andrews
He did business here 45 years ago, and is no stranger to the place
Among the visitors to St. Andrews last week was Hon. Richard R. Dobell, a member of the Dominion cabinet. He arrived here on Friday night and spent the greater part of his time while in St. Andrews in an interview with Sir William Van Horne.
Just before taking his departure on Saturday evening, with Sir William, Mr. Dobell accorded a brief interview to the Beacon. He said his visit had no political significance whatever. He had been in Saint John endeavoring to convert the shipping men to his ideas respecting an inspection of vessels, in order to overcome the present unjust discrimination of English Lloyds against Canadian ports. While no decision had been reached, he felt that there was a better understanding on the part of Saint John men on the subject, and he hopes that in time the objections would be overcome. After leaving Saint John he had come here to meet Sir William Van Horne.
The newspaper man sought instruct Mr. Dobell into the advantages of St. Andrews as an ocean port but was considerably surprised to find that the minister was no stranger to the place.
"Forty-five years ago," said Mr. Dobell, "I carried on lumbering operations in this section, and once a month for a period it was my practice to drive from St. Andrews to Saint John in connection with my business. I have stood ofttimes on the heights at Eastport and viewed with admiration the splendid scenery about the island and about the entrance to your harbor. So that you see I am no stranger to St. Andrews and its waters."
In order to refresh his memory he asked the privilege of reading the memorial of the St. Andrews Board of Trade, as published in last week's Beacon. Asked as to the political outlook, Mr. Dobell said his colleague were feeling very cheerful. "They have not succeeded in all their undertakings as they would like," said he, "but they have made a good average, and they are satisfied that the people of Canada recognize that fact." Dr. Dobell expects to leave for England shortly.
A grand golf tournament, for which magnificent silver cups prizes are offered, is now in progress on the Algonquin links. The Passaconway golf team from York Beach, Maine, is expected to pay here next Monday and Tuesday.
Beacon
Aug 23, 1900
List of Charlotte County People who will receive medals for their participation in the Fenian defence.
Beacon
August 30/1900
On invitation of Mr. Hugh Allan, a large party of Algonquin people enjoyed a sail in the Juanita on Friday.
The Campobello hotels have had a good run of guests this season.
The bell boys of the Algonquin went on strike on Thursday night. Four of them returned to Boston the following day. (interesting—money problems?)
A pleasant entertainment was given in the Owen Hall, on Friday evening, by a company of summer visitors, the Misses Porter and their brother playing a good part. Music and singing and dancing made up an excellent programme.
Beacon
Sept 6/1900
Mr. Robert Stevenson has the contract for making a number of alterations in the Van Horne barn on Minister's Island. He will begin the Malseed cottage at Bocabec within the next fortnight. There is also a prospect that he may begin the erection of a summer residence for Mr. Donald McMaster this Fall. He has had plans prepared and he is now looking them over. They contemplate an elegant structure.
The announcement which was posted on the Algonquin Hotel bill-board last week, to the effect that the hotel would close on the 5th, caused an immediate packing of trunks and hasty preparations for flitting homeward. Day after day, for a fortnight past, the tide of travel has been ebbing westward, and in a few weeks the pleasant summer season of 1900 will be but a memory. To say that many of the hotel guests were disappointed at the early closing of the house, expresses but feebly their chagrin. The hope had been held out that owing to the warm wave that was passing over the cities to the westward the hotel season would be lengthened, but, though many persons would have willingly stayed longer the hotel management did not see their way clear to prolonging the season and closed their door on the date announced. The result or this early closing is not only to disappoint the visitors, but to reduce the revenue derived by the townspeople from the summer guests. If there was an adequate number of comfortable boarding houses, or if the outside hotel accommodation was equal to the demands made upon it, many of those who were turned out of the Algonquin might have been induced to remain during the month of September, but there is such a woeful lack of desirable stopping-places outside the two hotels that very few lingered.
At Kennedy's hotel, the proprietors have been at their wits' end to house all who sought shelter. For several weeks the hotel has been overflowing. It is not improbably that net year an addition will be made to this comfortable house. There has been some talk of the Canadian pacific people adding another hotel and erecting a number of cottages, but so far as known, no definite action has been taken in this direction.
There has been some talk of the Canadian Pacific people adding another hotel and erecting a number of cottages, but so far as known, no definite action has been taken in this direction.
Piece on "hay fever immigrants":
The hay feverite is here. He is not here for fun, but to escape the painful malady which annually assails him. It has been demonstrated that St. Andrews is one of the localities where the hay fever parasite cannot flourish in, hence the large number of hay fever immigrants we see about. . . . Many people think hay fever is a fad, but people who think this way have never had the disease. . . . Physicians do not seem able to prescribe for the disease successfully. The best and only cure is a change of air,—to the seaside or the mountain top. When ballooning becomes a little safer and cheaper, a new immune district or more extensive range will be opened up to the poor hay fever sufferer.
Improvements to golf course coming. This season a high-water mark, owing partly to the fine prizes offered. Some by the club, some by individuals.
Beacon
Sept 20/1900
A Scottish Artist in St. Andrews
During the last four weeks a distinguished Scottish artist, Miss Patti Jack, has been making a stay in St. Andrews, and a number of our citizens have had the pleasure of seeing the result in the form of a series of charming pictures of local scenery. Many noteworthy American artists have been attracted to St. Andrews by the beauty of the sea views and landscapes in the vicinity; but it is doubtful if any one of them, so exquisitely and successfully as Miss Jack, has portrayed the wonderful colours of our summer skies and sea. One delightful landscape showed the lighthouse and the curving drive from Indian Point, in the evening haze, against a rose-colored western sky. A dreamy and restful picture. Another with the vast expanse of the bay with Deer Island the mainland in the blue distance, and the tangle covered fishing weirs in the foreground was particularly attractive from its realistic brightness. Several views of Minister's Island showing Sir William Van Horne's residence truthfully represented Chamcook Mountain and the hills beyond as an appropriate background. Miss Jack found the old weed-decked wharves enlivened by shipping especially fascinating and a number of very beautiful pictures represented these picturesque structures, the right colouring and vivid reflections bearing evidence of master painters' brush.
Our summer visitors are daily departing for their western homes, after a very fine season. The hotels will close this week. A yachtsman's ball was given in the dining hall of the Owen Hotel on Wednesday evening by some of the captains of the summer boats.
Beacon
Sept 27/1900
80,000 tons of coal to be delivered from Springhill mines to Saint John.
The plans for the new Presbyterian manse, which were thoughtfully donated by Mr. Edward Maxwell, architect, of Montreal, were accepted by the trustees of the church at a meeting held on Monday evening, last. Arrangements were also perfected for proceeding with the work. The plans disclose a simple, yet beautiful, cottage of colonial design, the front of which will face toward the harbor. In the centre of the front is the vestibule, opening into a hallway eight feet in width. Off this hallway to the right will be the library and study, with dining room behind. To the left will be a large drawing room with a room in the rear, which may be used as a nursery or a general living rom. A circular stairway at the end of the hall leads upstairs. Attached to the main building is an ell, which will have on the ground floor a commodious kitchen also pantry and larder.
On the second floor of the main house, there will be four large sleeping rooms, with a sewing room immediately over the door. The second floor of the ell will have a bathroom and a servants' sleeping room. A verandah is provided off the western side of the house. Mr. Angus Rigby, a thoroughly qualified builder, will superintend the work of construction, which will be begun just as soon as the deed for the land has been executed.
Beacon
Oct 11/1900
Federal Election at Hand, R. E. Armstrong running for Charlotte
The people of St. Andrews know whether the Liberal candidate was right in his desire to have this port developed or not. They know the part he took in the winter port agitation of 1891 when he went to Fredericton and assisted in securing a grant of $$20,000 for St. Andrews and a like sum for the Ledge. (The latter amount was applied later on, to the construction of the public wharf at SS). The know what he did towards bringing the subject to the attention of the Dominion government, the CPR, the Beaver Line steamship Company, the Allan Line company, and the boards of trade of Montreal, Quebec, and Toronto. They know all this and very much more, and we are willing to abide by their decision. For the information of the editor of the Courier who seems to be grossly ignorant of what is going on in this County, we might just say there that the Liberal government has made a move in the direction of developing St. Andrews, and that this move was as much die to the Liberal candidate as to anyone else.
Among the visitors to St. Stephen on Saturday last was Mr. Alex. Gibson, the lumber and cotton king of York, who came down to visit the scenes of his boyhood days. He first drove out to Oak Bay, where as a lad he began his active career. Mr. Gibson was born in St. Andrews but very early in life removed to Oak Bay. After looking over the old place on the Bay Road he drove to the Union, Milltown, where he labored for many years as a workman in the Todd lumber mill, and where he spent many of the happiest moments of his life. It was with a sad pleasure that he viewed the old home and recalled its many pleasant associations. On Sunday, the aged millionaire worshipped in the church of his early manhood days at Milltown—the Methodist—occupying the same pew as he had occupied forty years before.
Beacon
Oct 18/1900
On Van Horne's Cuban enterprise.
Beacon
Oct 25/1900
Big fish fair dinner at Owen dining hall. The floor of the magnificent dancing hall of the Owen Hotel never throbbed to livelier music or nimbler feet than on the evening of the 1900 ball, etc.
Beacon
Nov 1/1900
Workmen are employed on the grounds of Mr. William Hope, Bar road, getting them in readiness for the elegant summer residence which he proposes erecting there shortly. Mr. Robert Stevenson has the contract for the building.
The cellar for Mr. Donald McMaster's summer residence at the extension of King Street is almost completed. Mr. Robert Stevenson has the contract for the superstructure. The building will be one of the handsomest summer dwellings in St. Andrews.
New York Times: bicycle craze has passed it speak since its first introduction 4 years ago. Editor thinks it will soon take its place among the other relics of former ages, like croquet.
Beacon
Nov 8, 1900
Laurier re-elected but Armstrong defeated by the return of Mr. Ganong for the Conservatives. Armstrong lost to Ganong in St. Andrews, but won by a large majority on Grand Manan. St. Stephen, which had the largest voting population, voted hugely for Ganong.
A Promising Summer Resort
One of the loveliest summer resorts in the Quoddy region is to be found at "The Cove," Bocabec. For several years past this spot has been attracting an increasing number of summer tourists. This year the superlative loveliness of the locality led Mrs. Malseed, a Massachusetts lady, to begin the erection of a summer home there. The house is now under erection. It occupies a commanding position on the heights overlooking the bay, and challenges attention and admiration at once. The building is a large one and will be ready for occupation the coming season. It is expected that other summer residence sin the same locality will soon arise.
Beacon
Nov 15/1900
The echoing tones that sound forth the death knell of the old year as it slowly passes into the dim forever, suggest almost instinctively to the thoughtful mind a retrospective glance at the conditions which prevailed when those same bells heralded the birth of that year. And so as the few remaining days of 1900 toll out another century we glance back at the commencement of that century.
Beacon
Nov 22/1900
Sir William buys a Racing Yacht
Vice Commodore Robert P. Doremus, of the Atlantic Yacht Club, New York has sold his cutter yacht Uvira to Sir William Van Horne. The Uvira was built and designed by William Fife, Jr., and built by Black and Co., at Southampton, in 1890. She races in the 51-foot class, or class K, measuring 59 feet over all 42 feet 2 inches on the waterline and 11 feet 4 inches extreme beam, and 9 feet 4 inches draught. Out of ten races in which she entered during the past season, the yacht won six first prizes. The Uvira next spring will be removed to Sydney, Nova Scotia, where she will be sailed in the local regatta by Sir William's son, Mr. B. Van Horne.
The CPR has announced its decision to take export traffic through the port of Saint John during the coming winter. Thus another election body has disappeared.
New Summer Homes
The grounds upon which Mr. William Hope, of Montreal, proposes erecting his summer residence (Mowatt's Grove, Bar Road), are being graded and improved preparatory to the constructing of the building. One feature of the place will be an artificial lake, which has been laid out at the spring where so many picnickers have slaked their thirst in bygone seasons. Quite a respectable little sheet of water has been enclosed. This will be used either as fishpond or a spot for waterfowl to disport in. No part of the house has yet been erected, though it is the intention to have it ready for occupation next season. Mr. Hope will have one of the most beautiful situations for summer house at St. Andrews.
The work of erecting Mr. Donald MacMaster's summer home at the eastern end of King Street is proceeding apace. The foundation walls are almost finished, and the lumber for the superstructure is being place don the ground. This cottage will also be ready for occupation the coming summer.
Mr. Theodore Holmes has removed from the Lansdowne Hotel to his former residence near the Station.
Beacon
Nov 29/1900
Brief history of Katy's Cove. Ist dam washed out, second held but water went around it. Now C. P. R. looking into the matter.
Beacon
Dec 6/1900
Argyll Hotel property purchased from Gardiner estate by CPR.
Beacon
Dec 13/1900
Poles for St. Andrews-Saint John telephone line to arrive in spring.