Old St. Andrews

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Frank Cram

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Frank Cram, Manager New Brunswick Railroad

 

Pilot
Aug 17/1882
As Others See Us. Correspondence of the Boston Post. “Whatever may have been the cause of the sudden decline of this once proud people, the testimony of all who are in the least alive to the enterprise of the present preponderates in favour of St. Andrews as one of the first Canadian resorts. Free from fog, and with night air delightfully cool, and consequently death to the mosquito, a better place for all who are in quest of summer rest cannot be desired. . . . For commercial traffic, domestic and foreign, the open winter harbour and deep inland water promise an early growth. Already the Canada Pacific, which has made St. Andrews the objective terminus, is extended nearly east of lake Megantic to Moosehead. The consolidation of the European and North American with the Maine Central System, soon to be officially announced, will give a most productive impetus to east bound travel and westward freight. Under the superintendence of Mr. Cram of the former road, with the means at hand and obstacles ever present, the greatest revolution possible in passenger and freight traffic was effected. -E. C. C.

 

St. Croix Courier
May 3/1883
It is said that E. R. Burpee, manager of the N. B. Railway, and F. W. Cram, of the E. and N. A. R., are arranging for a steamer to run between Campobello, Eastport and St. Andrews during the summer months, in connection with the N. B. Railway.

 

Pilot
April 30/1885
W. F. Cram, Eastern freight agent for Maine Central has accepted position as Gen. Man. of NB Railway.

 

Pilot
Feb 23/1888
A summer hotel is to be built at Musquash by Boston parties, who have leased the lakes and tributaries in the area.
            Mr. Cram and a party of gentlemen interested in the movement for the purchase of lands in the vicinity of SA, arrived here in the general manager’s car by train Tuesday evening. The result of their visit will be developed in due season. There appears to be some basis for the report that the purchase of Minister’s Island has been successfully negotiated.

 

Pilot
March 1/1888
Fire at Slabtown
Great Movement in Real Estate
“A project initiated some months ago by F. W. Cram, Esq., General Manager of the NB Railway, has now passed the initial stage. C. Veazie Lord, Esq., of Bangor, Me., and Gen. Manager Cram, whose arrival in town last week was reported in the Bay Pilot, acting on behalf of themselves and a syndicate of American capitalists associated with them, negotiated the purchase of the following mentioned properties:--
From Dr. Parker, town lots and three blocks (a block contains two and two-third acres, and there are eight lots in a block) two of the blocks are situated near the Hotel Argyll property, and the other opposite the residence of Rev. Canon Ketchum, D. D. Dr. Parker also sold them forty-five acres of the pasture on the slope of the hill running down to Katy’s Cove. From the Whitlock estate, seventeen town lots and the Dunn farm, so called, at Joe’s Point, containing 137 acres. From g. Durell Grimmer, five lots in the Breackliffe block. From Richardson Haddock, two lots near the residence of C. M. Gove, Esq. From James Haley, three lots near Fort Tipperary. From John McFarlane, twenty-three acres, and from William Rollins thirteen acres. These last mentioned lands front on the road to the cemetery, and run down to the shore of the bay, bounded on either side by Archie McFarlane’s and the cemetery line fences. From Mr. Geo. Mowatt, twenty-five acres of Beech Hill farm, being the plot of land bounded in front by the St. John road, and on either side by the line fence on Highland Hill farm and Mowatt’s lane fence.
            In addition to the lands absolutely bought, the option to purchase lands as follows has been secured under written contract, viz: From Nathan T. Blakeney, the Highland Hill (or Tupper Farm), known to the older residents of St. Andrews as the Walton Farm, about 360 acres. From the Messrs. Andrews’, Minister’s or Chamcook Island, containing 960 acres. From Mr. Lord and G. D. Grimmer and others, their interest in St. Andrews Island, and how much other property we cannot at present state. The properties so far secured are amongst the most eligibly situated in the town and vicinity, and were secured at reasonable rates, although perhaps a little in advance of what property has been held at during the past ten years. We have reason to believe that during the coming summer, a large amount of money will be expended in the erection of buildings and in improvement of the property. The lands so far purchased have been, with his consent, conveyed to Sir Leonard Tilley, Lieut-Governor of NB, in trust, pending the organization of the proposed land company.”

 

Editorial:
            “We may safely assert that never before in the history of St. Andrews was there such excitement over movements in real estate, as existed during the past ten days. Exaggerated rumors prevailed, and at every place, in stores or on the streets, where two or more persons were assembled, land sales, and speculations as to the object of the purchasers, were sure to be the most important topic discussed. Some asserted that it was a railroad movement, based upon the probability of SA, in the near future, securing a share of the Canada Pacific railway trade, that is to say upon the opening of traffic over the Short Line railway, which will connect the New Brunswick railway with the Canada Pacific system, thereby making St. Andrews the nearest Atlantic port in the Dominion to the Canadian and United States north west. That St. Andrews possessed a number of valuable resources, requiring capital only to develop, goes without the saying, and that its possibilities as a winter port are next to illimitable cannot be truthfully denied. The approaches to the harbor from seaward are safe, the water in both passages, Latete and Clam Cove Head, bold and deep, and for which or the deep sea harbour, the ice king has no terrors, while the harbor is so sheltered by the sea walls provided by nature, that once within its precincts the Mainer feels that he has reached a harbor of rest, where no stormy winds that blow suggest cause for alarm, while the water is deep enough to accommodate the largest ships afloat. The parties so far known to be at the head of the movement for the purchase of real estate at St. Andrews are Americans, and railroad men who say their only interest is to secure building lots and to make St. Andrews a watering place second to none on the Atlantic sea board of the North American continent, and to create a traffic during the summer months that will add to the earnings of the NB railway company. We voice the sentiment of the community in wishing the gentlemen success in their undertaking, and to assure them that no obstacles will be placed in their way by the people of SA, who will be glad to see either or both contingencies realised.” [Clearly the watering place is second choice]

 

Pilot
April 12/1888
Gardiner’s speech in Stevenson Hall. B. R. Stevenson the Company’s Counsel. See photocopy and below.
            “In compliance with public notice given by R. S. Gardiner, Esq., chairman of the American syndicate operating in lands in St. Andrews and vicinity, the citizens of St. Andrews assembled in Stevenson hall on Thursday evening last, for the purpose of hearing a statement of the aims and objects of the syndicate. The door of the hall was opened at 7:30 o’clock, in a few minutes thereafter every seat was occupied as well as the standing room in the gangways. At eight o’clock the proceedings were commenced by the election of Geo f. Stickney, Esq., chairman, and F. Howard Grimmer, sec’y. Mr. Gardiner then took the floor and was listened to with the closest attention. He said amongst other things, I feel I hardly need an introduction to a St. Andrews audience. Nine years ago I heard of your town as a restful place, came here with my family every summer since. I am familiar with your wharves, your fish, know where the largest and most fish are to be caught, particularly when one fails to catch them I propose to outline the plans and purposes of the association of Americans who propose to do something for your town, amongst whom are Daniel A. Claflin, Mr. Cram, Mr. Lord, Mr. Fay and others. They all thought St. Andrews was an extremely pleasant place. Mr. Cram had but very little passenger traffic over the railway to SA, road was in bad condition, he was afraid to go to his directors and ask them to expend money upon it unless he could show them reasonable prospect of increased traffic. People of your town did not know our objects. Mr. Whitlock, Mr. Geo. Mowatt, Dr. Parker and others said, if your object is to benefit the town and not a land speculation, we are willing to help you. Sir Leonard Tilley have us free and full advice, as also did Mr. J. Emery Hoar. There is not one copper invested in this undertaking based upon the selection of St. Andrews as a railway terminus. I don’t know if such a thing is projected. We are not by any means philanthropic in our notions, we hope to make some money out of our venture. No man, woman or child at present residing in St. Andrews has any pecuniary interest in the association unless it may be Judge Stevenson as our counsel. There is no probability or possibility of Mr. Osburn making anything out of it, he has done all he could to assist us without the hope of a reward. Having obtained lands we propose to erect thereon, cottages of modern American style, and supply them with water and light.
            The taxpayers of the town insisted in placing in the Act incorporating “The Chamcook Water Company,” a clause binding us to commence the work within three years, and complete it in five years. Now we hope to have the water from Chamcook Lake into St. Andrews by September of this year (Applause). Now as to the question of lighting, we hope to run in connection with the water works, the electric light. (Applause)
One thing I may frankly state, we are not going to build hotels, other people will come and do it. We are extending our numbers, and have got in with us Mr. Flanders, passenger agent Boston and Maine railroad; Mr. J. B. Coyle, president of the International Steamship Co.; Mr. Connors, of the Boston and Fall River, and Old Colony road; so you see we will have an unbroken line by rail or water from St. Andrews to New York. The transportation companies disseminate advertising matter, reaching a large number, fully 1,000,000 circulars, etc., put in the hands of people who patronize summer resorts. Up to the present time it takes from twenty-four to thirty hours by rail between Boston and SA; this is prohibitory. If our plans are carried out you will at no distant day see standing at your railway depot every evening, a Pullman car that left Boston same morning. We ask the cooperation of the people of SA, having that our success will be assured. We asked Mr. Osburn if it was possible to get Indian Point, some 55 acres of land, 10 of which were between the race course and tide water. We would make in it a park say of ten acres, which would be a breathing place and resort, such a place as you much have before you ask people to your town, people who will come to spend their money with you. No man in the syndicate is known as a speculator. We don’t want to hold the land for a railway terminus, we will guarantee as expenditure of say $5,000 during the year, and should the Canada Pacific Railway company require it for a terminus within the next three years, we will come under bonds to surrender it to them, upon payment to us of the amount of cash we have actually expended thereon. Mr. Gardiner then resumed his seat amid loud applause.”

 

“1888”
The wintry sun at even went down
Behind the ‘Devil’s Head,’
As Keezer rang the evening bell,
To show the day was dead.
But every old inhabitant,
As he strolled home to tea,
Was conversing with his neighbour
Of the boom that was to be.

 

There was no doubt about it,
This was no ‘Argyll Sham,’
For companies were forming fast,
Led on by Mr. Cram.
For capitalists from Boston,
Have said, we’ll buy the town,
And millionaires from Calais
Have planked their money down.

 

And e’en the nabobs of St. John
Had one their level best,
they bought up all the land they could
And took options on the rest.
And the St. Stephen lumber kinds
Had also fumed and fussed,
The only trouble seemed to be,
They could not raise the dust.

 

The fathers of our city
Had met within their hall,
And listened to some speeches,
That had captured one and all;
What care they now for turnips,
Or how the weirs may fish,
For St. Andrews now was going to boom
And what more could they wish.

 

Down at the Point there’ll be a park,
Where now is bush and brake,
And all the water that we’ll drink
Will come from Chamcook Lake.
We were told in flowing language
Of how Chautauqua’d grown,
How Campobello was no good,
And Bar Harbour’s day was done.

 

They found they’d slept for 50 years,
But were bound to sleep no more,
And then a leading citizen
Got up upon the floor;
He said, ‘Oh kind Americans,’
Our town no more we’ll hide,
We’ll give you Chamcook Mountain
And we’ll throw in the Bay Side,
We’ll give our Point without a word,
Their promises are bold;
We are quite sure, with men like these
We never will be sold.

 

1898
Again the wintry sun went down
Behind the ‘Devil’s Head,”
Again old Keezer pulled the bell
To show the day was dead.
But now the old inhabitants
On their way home to tea,
Converse in mournful language
Of the boom that was to be.

 

The cows still roam upon our streets,
Horses and geese as well,
And all the water that we drink
Still comes from ‘Berry’s Well.’
The good old ‘Houghton’ goes as fast
As she did in years gone by,
The same old car is on the road,
No difference I descry.
In fact, I notice nothing new,
All things seem the same;
The only difference is, they talk
Of the boom that never came.
--Mabel

 

Pilot
Aug 30/1888
Importance of shade trees:
“Two years ago while visiting Bar Harbour the Hon. James Blaine learned much from the lips of our Lieutenant Governor Sir Leonard Tilley of the many beauties and attractions which St. Andrews offers as a summering place, and doubtless the impressions then formed were well inwrought upon the memory of the great American politician, for he has taken advantage of this his first opportunity since then, to visit and see for himself what St. Andrews is and the attractions it offers.” Guest of Cram; reception at Argyll. “His opinion differs not from that of ordinary men in the matter of St. Andrews being among the most attractive spots on the continent of America for a summer resort.”

 

Pilot
Sept 6/1888
Gardiner and Cram catch 48 specked trout at Horse lake

 

Pilot
Jan 10/1889
Refuse to Accept the Cut
To cut down the pay of workmen is usually the most unpleasant duty which a manger of any concern is called upon to perform. Last year, Mr. Cram, the general manager of the N. B. R., proposed a reduction of 10 percent in the pay of the employees, to extend for two months. All the employees acceded to the manager’s request, and as a result only the extra hands were relieved from duty. A similar request was sent out this year, but it is understood that the driver sand firemen refused to submit to any “cut” in their wages. The reduction will be made in all other departments of the service, as the employees have agreed that it shall be made. As a result of the unwillingness on the part of the drivers and firemen to the 10 percent reduction, a number of trains have been cancelled in order to provide for the necessary curtailment in the running expenses during the next two months—Daily Telegraph [doesn’t Cram quit over a pay cut later on?]

 

Beacon
Aug 22/1889
Sir John MacDonald
The Conservative Chieftain and His Lady Visit SA
SA has been all agog the past week over Sir John and Lady MacDonald, who arrived here by special train from River du Loup, on Friday last. [this would have been Aug. 16] It had been known for several days previous that the Conservative chieftain was coming, but out of respect to his wishes, his advent was kept as quiet as possible, lest a horde of office and favor seekers should swoop down upon him and disturb the serenity of his repose. Sir John was met at Edmunston by Mr. Cram, General Manager of the NBR, who accompanied him to St. Andrews. On the arrival of the party here they were at once driven to the Algonquin, where Mr. Jones had rooms in readiness for them. As Sir John entered the corridor of the hotel, the orchestra played an overture--"The Red, White and Blue"--in his honor. He spent a very quiet evening, in the company of Sir Leonard Tilley and Lady Tilley, whose guest he was.

 

Beacon
Sept 12/1889
Article by A. W. Smith
The news of the comparatively sudden death at Montreal of Mr. P. S. Stevenson, president of the NB railway, was received at the Algonquin hotel on Sunday night, and caused a painful shock to the inmates of he hotel as well as to the townspeople. Only a few days previous, Mr. Stevenson, while coming from Montreal with Mr. Cram to join his family at SA, has been taken sick on the road, and Mr. Cram returned with him. His physicians said his illness was not serious, it was simple as attack of biliousness, and he would be all right in a day or two. His home being closed up, he was taken to the hospital. On hearing of his illness, his family at once proceeded homeward, and it was fortunate that they did, as Mr. Stevenson’s death took place a few days after they got back. The deceased was in his 64th year. His wife and seven children survive him. With the exception of one, who is in training in “England, all his family were at his bedside.

 

Beacon
Oct 10/1889
Visit from Railway Magnates
Sir Donald Smith Makes a Hurried Inspection of the Future Winter Port
The air was full of rumours on Friday last, when it became known that a special train, with a number of railway magnates on board, was on its way to St. Andrews. "Van Horne is coming," said one gentleman, and as the refrain was taken up and spread throughout the town, speculation was rife as to the objects of his visit. Even when the train rolled into the station and it was learned that the CPR man was not among the passengers, speculation did not cease. The party was composed of Sir Donald Smith, Judge Bain, of Winnipeg, Mr. George Meighen, of Montreal, a brother-in-law of Sir George Stephen, Mr. Meighen's son-in-law and Mr. Cram, General Manager of the NBR. A barouche was in readiness for them, and the visitors at once started out for a drive. They circled the Park, and as the tide was ebbing, they had an excellent opportunity of witnessing the shore. After viewing the Park they drove to the Algonquin Hotel, where Mr. C. M. S. Horton, the Land Company's Superintendent, received them, and allowed them through the hotel from cellar to garret. They were all delighted with the hotel and the beautiful prospect that was to be obtained from it. Mr. Meighan said he would come down sure next season, and spend some weeks here with his family.  Mr. Hoar’s cottage was subsequently visited, and the party got out on foot and had a walk over the grounds. Sir Donald inspected the lot that had been chosen for him off the Bar Road, and he also obtained a glimpse of the lot the late Mr. Stephenson had purchased in the same neighbourhood. The party afterwards drove to Joe’s Point, after which they returned to their private cars and dined.
            Before dining, the Beacon reporter sought an interview with Mr. Cram, who very courteously informed him that the visit of Sir Donald and his companions had no significant whatsoever. They had been attending the meeting of the railway company in Saint John, and having half a day to spare they chose to spend it in visiting St. Andrews. This he said was the secret of the visit.

 

Beacon
Oct 31/1889
A special train arrived here on Monday afternoon last, having on board General Manager Cram, Mrs. Cram, and Master Cram, Mrs. and Mrs. James Burnett, (of Montreal), and a lady and gentleman from California. They were “prospecting” for the coming season.

 

Beacon
May 29/1890
Railway Men on the Wing
Sir George Stephen, president of the Canada Pacific railway, General Manager Van Horne, Mr. Meighen, one of the directors of the N. B. R. and Manager Cram, arrived in St. Andrews by special train on Tuesday afternoon from Edmunston. It was raining heavily when the train reached here, and their stay was very short. Manager Van Horne and Sir George Stephen were driven by Mr. Mallory to the Algonquin hotel, and made a hurried inspection of the hotel. From there they returned to the station, and the special started off again. The Canada Pacific magnates caught the CPR train at McAdam and returned to Montreal.

 

Beacon
June 19/1890
The agreement by which the NB becomes a part of the CPR has been agreed to by the latter company, and it is understood that the union will take effect from 1st July. Mr. Cram it is believed, will remain manager of the road in NB, and also of that portion in Maine from the boundary line to Brownville—Globe.

 

Gleaner
July 19/1890
Summer Visitors
The CPR in Charge: A meeting of the NB Railway is to be held on Sat. at which the transfer of the real to the CPR will be ratified and on Sat. the latter Co. will assume control with Mr. H. P. Timmerman as general superintendent, Mr. Cram having resigned. (Timmerman superintendent of Winnipeg-Port Arthur division)

 

Gleaner
July 23/1890
The NB Railway (edit: on hopes CPR will not take advantage of its monopoly in east; Cram resigned because assigned more duties with no increase in pay)

 

Gleaner
July 24/1890
Mr. Cram’s Retirement: the Bangor Commercial referring to Mr. Cram’s retirement from the NB Railway, says: Mr. Cram’s record in the railroad business is too well known here to call for special mention. He began 30 years ago in this city and worked his way up through the various positions of newsboy, freight clerk, ticket clerk, station agent, general freight agent, secretary, treasurer, assistant superintendent, superintendent, etc., to general manager, and in each of these position she served with success and credit. Before building up the NB Railway and placing it on a solid basis he did the same work for the European and North American and the stockholders in both corporations owe very much to him. It will suffice to say that the railroad which next secures Mr. Cram’s services will be indeed fortunate.

 

#Beacon
July 24/1890
The New Brunswick Railway
The announcement that General Manger Cram of the New Brunswick Railway would sever his connection with the lien when it passed into the hands of the CPR has awakened many expressions of regret from the people of St. Andrews. Mr. cram has always manifested such a deep interest in the town, and has labored so assiduously for its advancement, that the people here feel that in his departure they lose a true and rusted friend. Mr. Timmerman will be his successor. . . . We have not heard what Mr. Cram’s plans are for the future, but wherever he goes, he will carry with him the good wishes of thousands of New Brunswickers for his success. During the five years that he has been connected with the New Brunswick railway, [then since 1885], he has shown himself to be not only a thorough railway man, but a manly man, in the truest, broadest sense of the word. Among the employees of the road he inspired something more than respect, and by them he will be greatly missed. Under his management the road has been vastly improved. It was largely through his instrumentality that the St. Andrews branch was placed in the excellent order that it is in at present, and in other directions the town is very greatly his debtor. We are extremely sorry that he has felt called upon to sever his connection with the railway before the full fruition of his hopes regarding the future of St. Andrews had been reached, and we can only express the hope that the work so well begun by him will be carried forward in the same hearty manner by his successor. The Globe says that it is gratifying to know that Mr. Cram’s retirement is voluntary. In other words, that had he been disposed to continue in the new service and retain under existing conditions of pay and the necessarily changed condition of rank he might have done so.”

 

the New Brunswick Railway
The Announcement that General Manager Cram of the NB Railway would sever his connection with the line when it passed into the hands of the CPR has awakened many expressions of regret from the people of St. Andrews. Mr. Cram has always manifested such a deep interest in the town, and has labored so assiduously for its advancement, that the people here feel that in his departure they lose a true and trusted friend. Mr. Timmerman will be his successor. The Sun has this to say regarding the change:--
            As Mr. Cram’s intimate friends in this city are aware he has resigned his position as general manager of the NB railway and, inasmuch as the CPR formally takes over the road on August 1st, the latter company deemed it better to have a gentleman connected with their road previous to Mr. Cram’s departure in order that he might become somewhat familiar with his new charge.
            Mr. Timmerman, although an old railroad man, is young and active looking and at once impresses one as a gentleman possessed of solid business qualities. He has been railroading for twenty years, ten years of which he spent in the employ of the grand Trunk. From the latter company’s employ he went to Winnipeg, and for the past ten years has been superintendent of the division of the CPR between Winnipeg and Port Arthur. In that time Mr. Timmerman has had an extensive experience as nearly the whole CPR line in he Northwest was constructed under his control.
            General Superintendent Timmerman will spend the next few days looking over his new charge, and as the meeting of the NB railway company at which the transfer of the road to the CPR is to be ratified, is to be held on Friday, it is expected Mr. Timmerman will formally enter upon his duties Saturday next.
            So far as can be learned no changes in the railway staff are contemplated. St. John will form the practical eastern terminus of the CPR, and as such a staff quite as large as the present in the NB offices will be required to carry on the business. For the present the eastern division of the CPR will be from Saint John to Vanceboro, but it is said that in the near future the eastern division will extend as far as Mattawamkeag.
            We have not heard What Mr. Cram’s plans are for the future, but wherever he goes, he will carry with him the good wishes of thousands of NBers for his success. During the five years that he has been connected with the NB railway [1885], he has shown himself to be not only a thorough railway man, but a manly man, in the truest, broadest sense of the word. Among the employees of the road he inspired something more than respect, and by them he will be greatly missed. Under his management the road has been vastly improved. It was largely though his instrumentality that the St. Andrews branch was placed in the excellent order that it is in at present, and in other directions the town is very greatly his debtor. We are extremely sorry that the has felt called upon to sever his connection with the railway before the full fruition of his hopes regarding the future of St. Andrews had been reached, and we can only express the hope that the work so well begun by him will be carried forward in the same hearty manner by his successor. The Globe says that “it is gratifying to know that Mr. Cram’s retirement is voluntary. In other words, that had he been disposed to continue in the new service and retain under existing conditions of pay and the necessarily changed condition of rank he might have done so.”

 

Beacon
July 31/1890
The New Brunswick Railway
The stockholders of the NB railway have ratified the transfer of the road the CPR. The meting for that purpose was held in Saint John on Friday afternoon, among those present being Sir George Stephen, Mr. Meighen, Hon. Henry Stearns, and Mr. E. R. Burpee. The act of last winter authorizing the issue of consolidated stock was accepted and the directors were authorized to enter into an agreement with the CPR. Several matter of detail were deferred until the regular meeting of the NBR stockholders, which will be held on the 7th prox. It is understood that there will be very few important changes in the running of the road, the change of management being perhaps the most radical. By the lease of the NBR, the CPR has secured as fine a railway property as there is anywhere in the Dominion. The road-bed at all points is in the best of order, and the rolling stock and equipments could scarcely be better. This satisfactory state of affairs is largely due to the exertions of the retiring manager, Mr. Cram, and the fact is one which the NBR stockholders hold not lose sight of.

 

#Beacon
Aug. 7/1890
The Wharf Question
From time to time we have urged upon our people the advisability of taking some action wit a view to providing better wharf accommodation at this port. We hope that our words have not been entirely lost. We have reason to believe that Mr. Van Horne, the CPR manager, is quite favourably impressed with St. Andrews as a shipping port and with the facilities it has to offer as a coal depot. Mr Cram, we are told, pressed the matter very strongly upon his attention, and during the flying visit Mr. Van Horne made here recently he saw enough to convince him that Mr. Cram’s statements were well grounded. If an effort was made to provide a suitable wharf or wharves it might do much toward hastening the consummation that we so devoutly wish for here. We have no doubt that both the Dominion and Provincial governments would willingly aid the enterprise, if it was taken hold of by responsible parties.

 

#Beacon
Aug. 7/1890
Mr. Cram Addressed
Before severing his connection with the NB railway, Mr. Cram was presented with an address by the employees of the road, expressive of their appreciation of his uniform kindness to them, and of their regret at his departure. Reference was made to the many improvements he had brought about upon the road, and in closing the hearty wish was expressed that wherever he may sojourn his lines may be cast in pleasant places, and his life one of unalloyed peace and prosperity. The address was read by Mr. Moses Burpee, chief engineer of the road, and was signed on behalf of the employees, by the leading officials of the road. Mr. Cram was deeply affected and made a very feeling reply.

 

Beacon
Sept 11/1890
The “Rusticator” says of Mr. F. W. Cram that he “is a railroad man every inch. Quiet, unassuming, but fond of a joke and can give one as well. Easy in his ways, cool and collected,, respected by his employees and universally like by the world. Sometimes the names of men become so allied with the business which they purse as to make the avocation and cognomen inseparable. You cannot mention one without thinking at the same moment of the other. This is notably the case with Mr. Cram. He has climbed the ladder of fame round after round until the top of the ladder is reached. He has himself accomplished all this, he knew that his idea had in it the germ of success, he was slimly in advance of other in their ideas an stands today a practical railroad man in all and every respect. He is a man of his work honest and square in his dealing, a gentleman in every respect,” --statements that we all know to be true.

 

Beacon
Feb 19, 1891
Mr. Cram is Manager
Plans for the building of the Bangor and Aroostook railway have taken definite shape and legislation is now going through the Maine Legislature to give the scheme effect. It is to be provided that no railroad shall be built in the country within fifteen miles of the new road until after twenty years. Mr. F. W. Cram is appointed managing man of the new enterprise. The funds are prepared and construction will begin at once. Mr. cram and his wife are at present enjoying a trip through the southern states.

 

Beacon
April 9/1891
Manager Van Horne of the CPR to erect a palatial residence on Minister’s Island. Sir Donald Smith and others to build elegant summer home.
Mr. Robert S. Gardiner, vice-president of the St. Andrews Land Company, and Mr. F. W. Cram made a flying trip to St. Andrews this week to look after their interests here. During their stay, Mr. Cram exercised the option on Minister’s Island, made by the Messrs. Andrews some time ago, by purchasing 150 acres on the south end of the island.  This property is purchased for W. C. Van Horne, Esq., and president of the Canadian Pacific Railway Company, whose plans for the erection of an extensive and elegant summer residence thereon are completed. Mr. Van Horne expects to have it ready for occupancy this summer. A right for a carriage way from the end of the bar to Mr. Van Horne’s property has also been secured from Messrs. Andrews. It is Mr. Van Horne’s intention to keep a private steam yacht at the Island during the summer, and a floating dock for that purpose will be erected on the S. W. side of the island. It is part of the agreement with the owners of the island that the sand beach at the north-east end of the island, facing Hardwood Island, shall be included in the property purchased to be used for bathing purposes.

 

Beacon
July 2/1891
Mr. F. W. Cram came down from Watt junction on Saturday. He remained over until Monday morning, and with Mr. Gardiner, inspected the improvements that the Land Company are making to their property.

 

Beacon
Aug 13/1891
Trout and lots of them have been stored in the Algonquin cold air chamber the past week. Mr. D. B. Claflin made a big haul of Digdeguash waters, some of them running up to two pounds. T/his pretty big for brook trout, but then Digdeguash trout are famed for their princely proportions. Messrs. F. W. Cram, F. J. Lewis, Charles Gibson and r. S. Gardiner, who were on the upper waters of the Miramichi, came back to the Algonquin on Saturday with an immense lot of handsome fish, principally trout, and a large addition to their stock of fishy yarns. Their catch was away up in three figures—something like 800 we are told.

 

Beacon
April 14/1892
The option which Mr. Cram took on Minister’s Island, some time ago, expired April 8, and as it was not taken up, Mr. Andrews is again free to do as he pleases with his property. Mr. E. L. Andrews intends making an addition to his house.

 

Beacon
June 9/1892
Frank W. Cram (good drawing)
Sketch of a Man Well Known and Highly Esteemed in SA
Lewiston Journal

 

 

 

Frank W. Cram, general manger of the Bangor and Aroostook Railroad, appears in the Bangor directory. This refers to the subject of this sketch, one of the ablest railroad men in the land. Born in Bangor of poor parents, he did not have an opportunity to gain a school education in early life but sought employment. He found it about the Maine Central Railroad freight house, and later he secured employment as newsboy upon the train. At this time he was a slight lad not much given to talk but very observing. Whatever he did he did it in a quiet and easy manner and he soon became a favorite with the men all along the line. Particularly was this the case with the engineers and firemen, for Frank sought their company whenever an opportunity offered and she showed a hot eagerness to learn about the workings of a locomotive. He learned rapidly and perhaps one of the proudest days of his life was when an engineer allowed him to take a locomotive from the round house and attach it to the train. As time went on, Mr./ Cram advanced until he was made station agent at the insignificant European and North American station in Bangor.
            Mr. Cram married about this time and then he set about completing his education. His wife is a talented lady, and with her he studied until he was possessed of as good an education as could be secured in the high school. All the while he applied himself closely to business. He learned more about locomotives and how to run them; he mastered the art of telegraphy and became an expert operator, and he learned the minute details of railroad building and of transportation. He was early recognized as a brilliant man and was advanced until he was in full charge of the E and N. A. railroad. When the Maine Central leased the line they found him there and made him a general freight agent.
            But about this time the owners of the NB road, which is at present the only railroad in Aroostook, concluded to rebuild and reequip their system, and Mr. Cram was secured as superintendent. Thus more than 15 years ago he was brought into close contact with the businessmen of that county, and no man there is so well and favorably known as he. He made friends every day though he was a strict disciplinarian and looked sharply after the best interests of his road. When the Canadian Pacific bought he NB, a difference arose between the Canadian officials and Mr. Cram regarding salary, and after introducing his successor to the business he resigned. Then he moved from Saint John back to Bangor. Immediately, offers came to him from railroad men in various parts of the country but his heart was set upon a short line out of the Aroostook, and he went to work upon the idea.
            Up to this time it has been impossible to create an active Bangor interest in the line. Aroostook wanted a short way out but did not know how to go to work. Mr. Cram had the full confidence of the people at both ends of the line, and gradually he shaped affairs until they took on substantial form. He proved to be an able advocate, and was able to convince capital that the Aroostook scheme was a good thing. He made some progress each day until now there seems to doubt that the will see his project fully carried out He is under contract to the new line for a term of years at a salary of $5,000. . . . He is a most effective speaker but he is not heard unless he has something to say and then in well chosen words he gives expression to his thoughts. He is mot happily situated in his domestic life and maintains a home in Bangor. One story illustrates his energy and quickness of thought.
            Before Judge peters became chief justice and when Mr./ Cram was running the E and N. A. road, Judge peters was assigned to hold a term of court in Machias. His intent was to take a morning train for Calais and then drive to Machias. But the hackman overslept and the judge missed the train. Mr. Cram heard of this and after ordering out an engine he sought Judge Peters and told him he should reach Calais in time. The judge got into the cab, Mr. Cram took the engineers’ seat and then began a chose after the morning train. It was a wild ride, though Judge Peters said he enjoyed the novelty of it and he was surprised at the skill sown by Mr. Cram. The train was overtaken during he forenoon and the judge was at his post in court at the stroke of the clock.

 

Beacon
Aug 18, 1892
F. W. Cram manager of the Bangor and Aroostook railway arrived at the Algonquin on Saturday night and will remain for a week or more. He would like to stay longer, but time is precious with him just now. Mr. Cram says that rapid progress is being made on the construction of the B and A railway.  There are no very great engineering difficulties to be overcome, so that he thinks the 210 mils of railway will be completed and ready for operation in 1984. It is hardly likely that any rails will be laid this year. Mr. Cram is enthusiastic over the future of this road.

 

Beacon
Aug 25/1892
Company Meetings
The annual meetings of the St. Andrews Land Company, Chamcook Water company and Algonquin hotel company were held on Saturday, when directors were chose as follows:
Land company—S. L. Tilley, President, R. S. Gardiner, vice-president; E. F. Fay, secretary-treasurer with Abraham Avery, George L Connor, Daniel B. Claflin, Roscoe A. Cobb, Dana J. Flanders, John b. Coyle, Charles V. Lord, C. F. Bragg, F. W. Cram, F. E. Boothby, J. Emory Hoar.
            Chamcook Water Company—same officers and directors as above, with the exception that F. B. Noyes takes the place of Mr. Hoar.
            Hotel Company—W. A Murchie, President; F. Howard Grimmer, vice-president; Roscoe A. Cobb, secretary-treasurer, with R. S. Gardiner, F. W. Cram, George W. Jones, D. B. Claflin and E. F. Fay.

 

Beacon
Aug 10/1893
F. W. Cram, General Manager of the Bangor and Aroostook railway, came to St. Andrews on Saturday, and remained over at the Algonquin until Monday. Mr. Cram report that work is proceeding speedily and satisfactorily on his road. Rails have been laid about ten miles from Brownville, and four-fifths of the balance of the road is graded and ready for the rails. Two new engines have been received and new cars are also being added.

 

Beacon
Dec 21/1893
Houlton is rejoicing over the advent of the B and A road into that town: the first engine reached that city soon after midnight on Sunday morning. As the work lately has been carried forward under very trying circumstances the wonderful progress that has been made reflects great credit on the skill and energy of General Manager Cram and his staff. The Beacon congratulates Mr. Cram upon his success. At the same time we hope that the advent of this road into the Aroostook country will be the means of awakening the CPR people to a higher appreciation of the advantages of St. Andrews as a competing point. By cheap freights from Aroostook to St. Andrews and vice versa, and by the utilization of the water route from this port, the CPR ought to be able to offset in a great measure the completion of the new road.

 

Beacon
Feb 1/1894
The Bangor and Aroostook railway, under the management of F. W. Cram, is now running regular trains. F. P. Barnard, the agent at Houlton, sends the Beacon a copy of the first folder issued by the road, with an intimation that we travel by hat roué in future. The longest way round is not always the shortest way home.

 

Beacon
May 2/1895
Townspeople are planting flowers at the request of the town Improvement Association. Flower beds at railway station. Honorary members Sir Donald Smith, Van Horne, R. S. Gardiner, Cram, Tilley. Life members Dr. N. G. D. Parker, president; r. S. Gardiner, Mrs. B. S. Stevenson

 

Beacon
Sept 10/1896
The postponed meetings of the Land, Water and Hotel companies, of SA, were held on Thursday last, Mr. F. W. Cram being chosen president of the Land and Water Companies in place of Sir Leonard Tilley deceased. The other members of the different boards remain as before. (Cram has been a common visitor at the Algonquin the last few years)

 

Beacon
March 16/1899
The opinion is expressed at Ottawa that the difficulty attending the steamship Gaspesia means the death blow to the direct Milford Haven, and Paspebiac line. If Sir William Van Horne would only whisper to the promoters of this scheme that they can find a port to suit them in Sa, NB, he would e doing both them and St. Andrews a good turn.

 

Death of Mr. Robert S. Gardiner
A Man Who was Active in Promoting St. Andrews as a Summer Resort
The news of the death of Mr. Robert S. Gardiner of Boston, which was received here on Thursday, occasioned a painful shock. For fully twenty years Mr. Gardiner had been intimately associated with the life of St. Andrews, so that the people had begun to regard him as one of themselves.
            Mr. Gardiner's first connection with St. Andrews was as a summer visitor and dates back to the seventies. He and his family became so much attached to the place as a summer home that their visits were as regular as the flight of the swallows. They roomed at the Argyll hotel, until the construction of the Algonquin in 1889, when they made that hotel their summer refuge. Subsequently, Mr. Gardiner erected a beautiful cottage on the crest of the hill overlooking Katy's Cove. There he and his family spent several delightful seasons the first break in their happiness occurring last year, when Mrs. Gardiner died after a lingering illness.
            It was while he was a guest at the Argyll hotel, that Mr. Gardiner, together with Mr. F. W. Cram, then manager of the New Brunswick Railway, conceived the idea of developing St. Andrews as a summer resort. To think with them was to act. As a result of the joint endeavours of the two gentlemen, (who were able to associate with them an number of American capitalists) the Algonquin Hotel company, the St. Andrews Land Company and the Chamcook Water Company were formed. In the summer of 1888 the Land Company acquired control of the plot of ground to the south of the railway tract. By the expenditure of a considerable sum of money this was converted into a very pretty natural park, and a sample summer cottage erected therein. The company also purchased all the most desirable lots that they could obtain, their purchases giving the town quite a boom. The brick building, now occupied by The Beacon, was likewise constructed by the company. While the Land Company was thus employed, the Hotel Company was not idle. The magnificent Algonquin,--the handsomest summer hotel in eastern Canada,--was erected by them and in 1889 was thrown open to the public. These projects, which involved the expenditure of many thousands of dollars, owe their origin almost entirely to the energy and business shrewdness of the two gentlemen we have named. When Mr. Cram severed his connection with the railway, he was not able to devote so much of his time as he had formerly done to the promotion of St. Andrews interests, but Mr. Gardiner's interest never faltered. His hand figured very largely in the construction of the addition to the Algonquin a few years ago. The establishment of a golf links here was Mr. Gardiner's idea. As a result of his endeavours, the present links at Joe's Point, which is acknowledge to be the most beautifully situated in America, was laid out. At his own cost, he erected a club-house and presented it to the Golf Club. He also contributed some very costly prizes for golf competitions.
            A year or two ago, Mr. Gardiner with Mr. D. B. Claffin, of Boston, acquired the Sampson property, near the Algonquin hotel. On this land there is a natural spring, the waters of which are said to possess valuable medicinal properties. It was the intention of Mr. Gardiner to make this spring one of the attractions of the place. The first steps toward that end were taken last year, when the wall was stoned up with granite. It was intended that this season further improvements should be made.
            The Argyll hotel property was purchased by Mr. Gardiner several years ago. It was said at the time that he had a mammoth hotel scheme in view, but it never matured, the property still remaining in an undeveloped state. Had he lived, it is not unlikely that he would have carried his project into effect within a year or two.
            Three daughters survive Mr. Gardiner's death,--Mrs. Frederick Todd, of Baltimore; Mrs. Wm. T. :Payne, of Yokohama, Japan, and Miss Dora Gardiner.

 

Beacon
Aug 21/1902
Algonquin Hotel Co. re-elect old Board of Directors, but without F. W. Cram, who is replaced by Clifford S. Cobb

 

Beacon
Jan 22/1903
In noting the change that has taken place in the personnel of the St. Andrews Land Company we feel it due to the survivors of the original company that we should express our deep sense of gratitude for what they and their deceased colleagues have done towards making St. Andrews known to the outside world as a summer resort. Among the men prominent in this movement we might mention the names of F. W. Cram, the present popular manager of the Bangor and Aroostook Railway; Mr. Eugene F. Fay, of Brookline, Mass.; Mr. A. D. S. Bell, of Boston; Mr. Boothby, of Portland, Maine, and the late Robert S. Gardiner. R. A Cobb D. B. Claflin and J. Emory Hoar. It is largely owing to the exertions of these gentlemen—Messrs. Cram and Gardiner particularly—that St. Andrews is to the fore as a summer resort. We betray no secret when we say that to Mr. Cram’s persuasive powers is due the fact that the Beacon is enjoying the smiles of the people of the Charlotte County. The same gentle persuasions were employed upon the heads of the great CPR corporation and with equal success, as our readers are all happily aware. The removal of Mr Cram from the province and the death of Mr. Gardiner and several of his associates weakened the company to such an extent that of lat years very little has been done in the way of developing their interest. But they set the ball rolling, and though it has rolled a little slow at time it has been moving along nine the less surely

 

Beacon
June 16, 1904
Manager Cram of the B and A has designs on Saint John’s lumber trade which comes through Maine. The Belfast Maine Journal says “it is estimated that some 200,000,000 feet o flogs are now annually driven down the Saint John River to be sawed into timber at the mills along the river, but principally at Saint John, from which port it is shipped. This business would be transferred to Maine with the building of the project line, (the B and A line to tide water) and the handling, manufacture and shipment of this vast output of the Aroostook forest would mean a good deal to our state.”

 

Beacon
Nov 30/1905
Sir Thomas Shaughnessy is determined that St. Andrews shall become a leading summer resort, if money can make it. In furtherance of that idea he has given instructions to proceed with the erection of a dam across the mouth of Katy’s Cove, so as to imprison the tidal water and make of the cove a comfortable swimming area. [Contracted to D. C. Clark, Saint John wharf builder] . . . . Work will begin at once and will be pushed through without delay. The dam will be erected outside the line of track. It will be made of a strong cribwork and will give ample opportunity for the imprisoning of the tide and for its release when required. This will be the third attempt to enclose Katy’s Cove with a dam. The old Land Company, in which F. W. Cram was one of the leading spirits, had two dams constructed, but the tides forced their way through the shifting sand and the company did not feel warranted in expending a larger sum of money thereon.

 

Beacon
Jan 11/1912
Recent Deaths
Henry Osburn
London, Jan. 4—Henry Osburn, a railway manager, formerly of SA, NB, toed today. [the above, taken from the Montreal Herald, was the first intimation that the people of St. Andrews received of the death of a man who was once a prominent figure in this town, and who is still kindly remembered by many friends. Mrs. Osburn, who was an Englishman by birth, came to NB about the year 1860 to assume the management of the NB and C. Railway, succeeding Mr. Julius Thompson. He remained in control here until the management of the NB Railway was taken over by Mr. F. W. Cram, his place of residence, with the exception of a year or two at SS, being the present Inn, belonging to the CPR. He married a daughter of the late George D. Street, a prominent barrister, and a large family was boron to them. His widow, two sons and two daughters now survive. Mr. Osburn returned to England to make his home about the year 1888. He has paid one visit here since. The deceased was 82 years old. He was a large stockholder of the NB railway and a president and director of the company for many years. He was a great lover of the forest and was a keen sportsman. Only a few weeks ago, he wrote to John Nicholas, who has been his Indian guide on many a hunting excursion, that he had given away his guns and fishing tackle as he felt he would never use them again. He did not forget to send his usual Christmas remembrance to Chief Nicholas and family, a practice which he had been keeping up for 33 years without a break.

 

Beacon
Oct 24/1912
F. W. Cram has resigned as president and director of the B and A Railway. Arthur Holland of Concord, Mass has been chosen to succeed him.

 

Beacon
Sept 23/1915
The Late Sir William Van Horne. An Appreciation
R. E. Armstrong
To the Editor of the Globe.
Sir:--As one who for over twenty years enjoyed the very great privilege of an intimate, personal acquaintance with Sir William Van Horne, will you permit me to pay a brief tribute of regard to his memory.
            It was in the early 90’s that Sir William Van Horne paid his first visit to St. Andrews. He went there at the suggestion of Mr. F. W. Cram, one of the promoters of the St. Andrews Land Company, who was desirous of securing his personal interest in the place. The first visit was fruitless. The weather was bad, the place did not look as attractive as it had been pictured to him, and he declined to take hold. Another visit was arranged. this time it was typical St. Andrews weather. The sun shone on a glorious picture of bay and river and island. Sir William was enchanted with the scene and surrendered at once. Without loss of time he purchased from Mr. Marshall Andrews the western end of Minister’s Island,, and began the erection of a summer home. It was a rough, barren spot when Sir William took hold of it, but he recognized its possibilities, and before long he made it one of the most attractive and beautiful localities in Canada. He built a magnificent summer home of natural sandstone,, erected mammoth barns, greenhouses and vineries, laid out a splendid road system, planted fruit trees and flowers, and then invited the public to come and share with him the enjoyment of Nature’s beautiful gifts. Thousands of visitors from all parts of the North American continent took advantage of this offer, and the fame of his beautiful grounds became known from ocean to ocean.

 

St. Croix Courier
April 5/1926
Charlotte County--The Tourists’ Opening Door. R. E. Armstrong
Begun at a Beautiful Border Town Over Thirty Years’ Ago.
Charlotte county was the opening door for the Summer Tourist Traffic of the Maritime Provinces of Canada. It is a broad type of door that is still open and that is tending to enlarge touring throughout practically all Eastern Canada.
            The fixing upon a summer resort at the beautiful border town of SA--shire town of Charlotte County--in 1888, by Manager Cram of the NB Railway Company, followed up in succeeding years by Sir William Van Horne, of the Canadian Pacific Railway, by the inventor of the Touring Motor, and by the activity of NB’s government in improving the highways throughout the province from international gateways at St. Stephen and northern points, have been instrumental in expanding the tourist traffic of NB, NS and PEI and have awakened a lofty spirit toward the Maritimes by practically all sections of North America. Publicity of a good type has been most helpful, likewise the action of the NB government in supplying Boston, Mass., with an exhibit of samples of its wild animals and birds that were available for hunting in the summer time. As a result of these actions not only has there been an enlargement of sporting opportunities in this and other provinces but likewise of touring facilities.
            It is anticipated that approaching season will break all tourist records. As previously stated, one of the first summer resort organizations of these attractive Canadian Provinces was fixed upon a year before the completion of the Canadian Pacific Transcontinental Railway system. (the last spike was driven November 7, 1885; or does he mean the short line completed the system—this would fit with 1888 and the Land Company) F. W. Cram, superintendent of the NB railway, whose head office was at Saint John , was practically the leader of this movement. He was ultimately connected with official representatives of the Maine Central Railway, the Boston and Maine railway, a publicity firm of advanced form in Boston, and a number of others in the beautiful St. Andrews region. A parking square was fixed upon at Indian Point, also a fine summer hotel, and a number of summer homes on the tall hills above, which had magnificent views of the NB border, also of Passamaquoddy Bay, the Maine coast, the St. Croix River, Deer Island and several other lovely islands. [Armstrong downplays the American influence, for some reason]
            Mr. Cram persuaded the writer, who was connected with the Saint John Globe’s reportorial staff, to establish a newspaper at St. Andrews for the expansion of that good port, and to assist in the promotion of the summer resort scheme that was in his company’s mind. As a result of this appeal the St. Andrews Beacon was entered upon and was continued for twenty five years, during which a strong effort was made along both lines.