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Riverboat Excursion to Barnum’s Great Show, Calais

Standard

July 26, 1876

Excursions by Steamer and Rail On Tuesday morning at 6:30 the special train with several passenger cars left here for St. Stephen, with a large representation from St. Andrews to visit “Barnum’s Great Show” at Calais. The day was as fine as could be desired. At half past 8 o’clock the Steamer “Belle Brown” arrived with a full freight of passengers from Eastport and vicinity, and the number was increased by many residents of this town, who preferred the sail up the river. The land fog was very thick; nevertheless, Capt. Ryan steered the steamer through it and after a short time we left the fog behind and came into a clear atmosphere. A more orderly or better conducted large excursion party never passed up the river. Many of the prominent gentlemen from Eastport were accompanied by members of their families; among them we notice the popular postmaster Charles Norton, whose genial disposition contributed materially in the pleasure of the party. After a pleasant passage, the tide being too low to reach the wharf at Calais, the excursionists were landed at St. Stephen, and being desirous of witnessing the procession, at once proceeded to Calais where the streets were thronged with immense crowds from the surrounding districts. The hotels were filled to repletion, but the major number found accommodation at the St. Croix Exchange, whose popular and attentive landlord, W. H. Young, did all that could reasonably be expected to accommodate the numerous guests. The dinner tables were filled several times by hungry excursionists, but the supply of edibles was equal to the demand, and everyone expressed their satisfaction. At two o’clock, the immense Circus pavilion was filled; it was computed that not less that 5000 people were present to witness the performance, and view the menagerie and numerous curiosities. So much has already been published with reference to the “Great Show” that anything we could write would not add to its attractions. At 6 o’clock the steamer left for St. Andrews, arrived about half past 7, where the St. Andrews passengers were landed after an agreeable trip. Space forbids giving fuller description today, but we heartily join with others in expressing satisfaction and pleasure at the day’s amusement. .