Item
Standard
Jan 1, 1835
(see earlier issue of Standard for launching of AVA)
John Wilson has received by the Ava from Liverpool, crates earthenware boxes 8 10 cron glass Boxes Mould and dipt candles, Boxes yellow soap, Kegs White Paint in 56 28, 14 bleach, Hhds. Raw and boiled linseed oil, Coils cordage and spun yarn, assrt. Sizes, bail twine, Bars round and square iron assorted sizes, Chain cables 3.8 1.2.5 S and 7.8 inch, Anchors from 5 to * cwt, spades and shovels.
Also a large assortment of Hardware and dry goods, consisting of Tea kettles, knives and forks and spoons, pocket knives, Mill and put saw files, circular saw, Broad cloths, Sattenots, Britannis, Handskfs, Grey and white Shirting cottons, Bed tick, men’s’ and women’s hose, Bombazette, assorted gloves, slop clothing, etc.
Also in Store a few Puns. Well flavoured Demerara Rum.
St. Andrews June 5th, 1834.
On Sale
26 Puncheons Demerara Rum, high proof and fine flavor; 4 Bales Red Flannels, 2 bales Pilot Cloth and Petersham. Low for cash or good paper.
James Boyd
Oct 14th, 1834
Contracts
Contracts will be received by the Commissioners of the Poor for supplying such quantities of the best quality of White Lead and Raw Oil and will be wanted for the painting of the Poor House, payment to be made four months after such supply The tender will be received until Saturday the 15th inst.
James Boyd
St. Andrews Sept. 10th, 1834.
(This is the earliest mention of the Poor House after the reference in 1819 to one being fitted up by private subscription. The Poor House accounts seem not to date before 1836, so perhaps this painting job is for the newly finished Poor House.)
Standard
Jan 1/1835
Notice on shareholders' meeting of Champlain and St. Lawrence RR. p.1
"The present is the fifth time within six months that there has not been a debtor or criminal in our County Gaol."
Standard
Jan 8/1835
Conclusion of speech to Mechanics' Institute of Halifax by Joseph Howe alludes to popularity of Italy as tourist destination. Seems as though scenery less important than evidence of "the highest qualities of the human mind." This part two. Part one Jan.1/1835.
Standard
Jan 22, 1835
A Card
Captain McBean and Crew of the Brig Sir John Moore of St. Andrews New Brunswick beg to offer their most grateful thanks to Captain Coolidge, Officers and Men, of the American Revenue Cutter, Swiftsure, for their prompt and efficient services, when the brig was in great danger of going ashore near Quoddy had, and through whose strenuous exertions she was ultimately saved. Captain Coolidge humanely sent a sufficiency of hands aboard to enable Capt. McBean to put ashore several of his men, who were severely frostbitten, that they might receive surgical aid. Such adventurous and generous conduct deserves lasting gratitude, and will ever be most sensibly felt by those who now take this mode of expressing their ardent acknowledgements for the great benefits they experienced. St. Andrews, Jan.12, 1835
ON Sale
The cargo of Barque Lotus, from Hamburg
Superior white and red wheat, oats, butter, peas, beef, pork, and bread Westphalia hams, Holland and Skedam gin, claret and Champagne wines.
John Wilson
July 22nd, 1834
It is well worth the attention of our farmers to avail themselves of the opportunity, now offered, of procuring part of the above winter wheat for sowing, which the ? crop in Nova Scotia.
Mann’s Hotel
St. Andrews, New Brunswick
Travellers can procure superior accommodation at the above establishment; where a good larder, and the choicest wines and liquors are constantly provided. Every attention paid to ladies and gentlemen going by the steamboats and packets. A few gentlemen can be accommodated with Genteel Board and Lodging, and will find the proprietor desirous of contributing to their comfort.
Standard
Feb 5/1835
Petition of St. Stephen Railroad Co.
Standard
Feb 19, 1835
For the Standard
Head Harbour Light House
Erected on a point of rocks,
The light house trimmed in white,
A well-known beacon stands by day,
A steady beam by night.
When running down their lost to gain,
The vessels onward wend,
The light by night’s a pleasing sight;
It proves the sailor’s friend.
The timber ships from Britain’s coast,
And for St. Andrews bound,
They frequently this steady light,
A faithful guide have found.
The plodding plastermen, at times,
Will heavy tempests brave
While like a half tide rock they seem
And lashed by every wave.
They pass Le Preau, while growing dark,
And oft to doubt begin,
But soon the light appears in sight,
And guides them safely in.
Some trade from Passamaquoddy bay
To Caribbean Isles,
Whose genial climate, soft and warm
The sailor’s care beguiles.
Burt on return in winter months
When boreas, raging, blows,
The decks are covered up with ice,
And running rigging froze.
To stem such storms, and falls of snow,
What must their labour be!
But what delight! Behold the light,
Full, broad upon the lee.
The Fishermen, with finny fare,
O’er ocean’s bosom glide,
And gayly guide their little barque,
In hopes to save the tide!
But oh! ‘tis spent she must bear up
Then round the point she winds
South west beneath the brilliant wreath
A road stead safe he finds.
The coasting fishers too, in boats,
Who try the outer grounds
The light house on with, Casco bay,
A useful mark have found.
Soon as the flood begins to make
To inner ground they speed,
A quickly bring the light within
Head harbour island head.
The Indian in his birch canoe
When all is calm and still
With piercing eye and certain aim,
Will flocks of wild birds kill.
The porpoise chase he will pursue
And to a distance roam,
“ere took by night, the trusty light
Conducts him safely home.
Swift as a bird upon the wing
The steamers press their way,
A beacon true the light house proves
To guide them ‘cross the Bay.
Still urging on their rapid flight
Their rumbling paddles ply,
At ebbing tide, the light house side
They near, and pass it by.
To face each storm, the pilot brave,
Will trim his bounding barge;
At length a stranger sail appears—
He boards and takes the charge.
Returning with the outward bound,
If off the light he leaves;
Where once the ground was cheerless found,
A welcome he receives.
Proudly, the light house stands confest,
The goddess of the stream,
And from her amber coronet
Sheds an inviting beam.
Pharos
Mill Privilege
For sale: that valuable water privilege at the foot of Chamcook Lake, containing 7 acres and a half of land; also the sawmill and dams on the second and Limeburner’s lakes—the whole embracing advantages of peculiar importance and magnitude. For particulars inquire at Samuel Frye.
July 17th
Standard
March 5, 1835
From Our Correspondent
Dear Sir, I see some wag has fired a random shot through your last number at the “Old Four,” to hit them for not being in their places in the House on a certain division. He has been led into a mistake, if he think we were not at our posts, for you must know that a great number of select committees have been raised for the performance of special business. These generally sit until 12 o’clock, unless a call of the House is made, which is never done on a motion for so little importance as the one alluded to, which, I believe, was merely whether the Militia Bill should be brought in a by a single member, or a select committee. This our captious wiseacres are not fully aware of. I sincerely pity the poor Devils, who like John Bunyan’s old Giant, by reason of the many shrewd brushes he had met with, was grown so stiff in his joints that he could do little more than sit in his cave’s mouth, grinning at pilgrims, and biting his fingers because he would not get at them. I believe I told you that the Grand Jury Bill had passed and you may before now have seen the speech of “Anthony Hobnail” upon it. Its fate has not yet been decided in Council. Mr. Brown carried the Magaguadavic River Driving Bill up to the Council today. The Statue Labour will has occupied a select committee more than a fortnight very forenoon and some evenings, Mr. Brown was on it at all its sittings. They had Mr. Street in the Chair, an indefatigable laborious man, but something tedious. The new bill has not yet been occupied—it will perhaps be reported tomorrow, and afterwards be printed. The scale of labour is intended to rise from 2 to 20 days, nonresident property to e taxed, and the commutation price to be raised to 3 a day when paid at the time required, and 5s a day afterwards.
The auctions are so arranged that all the duties of all persons concerned are pointed out step by step in the order in which they naturally arise, and the phraseology is so simplified as to avoid all ambiguities and misunderstanding. It is not intended to apply to the Town plats of Fredericton and St. Andrews, or the city of St. John. The new Buoy and Beacon Bill passed the committee of the whole House today, Mr. Wyer managed this part of his duty with great attention and ability. Your ship owners will be gratified to learn that the Beacon Light at Indian Point is now put on to the General Light House establishment and the charges for the support of Buoys and Beacons within the inner Bay of Passamaquoddy reduced to a half-penny per ton. This is the same bill that Mr. Brown framed, and which was read in Session last September, about which, you recollect, such hue and cry was raised. A Bill for Members pay has also been passed, they intend to take 30 pounds for the Session and lose a day for traveling charges. It was carried up to the Council chamber today. A violent attempt is making to repeal the laws for the protection of the Herrings about the Island of Grand Manan, and I am afraid it will be successful.
I have my doubts whether the Bill enabling the Grand Jury to inspect the County accounts will pass the Council. If it be lost there, Col. Wyer intends to bring it in again under another title, with perhaps such modifications as may obtain “favour in the sight of the lords,” for it is better to get the principle admitted and its working can be rectified as experience may point out.
I remain, Dear Sir, etc.
Quaternarius
Communication
To the Editor of the Standard
Sir, I perceive that the subjects discussed in your paper are mostly of a political cast, which it may be are better liked by people in general, than such as refer to the state of public morals; but I would fain hope that you have many readers who are inclined to encourage the free discussion of serious subject, whose minds are impressed with pure notions of the best interest of man as an individual, and with correct views of the true polity which should be pursued by mankind by this persuasion, to ask a space in your columns for the purpose of calling attention to an evil, which appears to me to be extending rapidly in this community. . . . Having thought it right to say thus much in apology I shall without further introduction tell you that my subject is of illegitimacy. Few persons, I suspect are aware of the fearful extent of this crime in some of the countries of Europe. I copied out of an English newspaper some time ago, the following account of illegitimate children, which it was stated was taken from official tables of population and other matters.
. . .
I hope, sir, that these observations may lead others to take up this, and other subjects which relate to our neighborhood, for I aver that discussions on them will be conducive to much public benefit, and I should think a corner of your paper may be as usefully employed for the advancement of true morality as for any other purpose whatever; and should you concur in the opinion, you will hear again from
Amicus Castitatis
Last week Col. Wyer introduced a bill to assess the inhabitants of Charlotte for erecting a new Court House in the County, and by a resolution of the Committee, the St. Andrews Standard will be immortalized in the Journals of the House, an order having been made that a copy of this aid Bill be published in said newspaper for the information of the Inhabitants of the County of Charlotte. (letter from Clitus)
Standard
March 19, 1835
To Correspondents
We must decline inserting the queries of “Pater” until we make some inquiry the subject he agitates, as we must acknowledge our total want of correct information on the constitution and management of the grammar School, and therefore our inadequacy to answer him. He need not be apprehensive, however, that we shall shrink from encountering the task, or from bringing the matter fairly before the public, if we find that there are any proper grounds for the insinuations that his questions embody. We have suffered too much from erroneous first impressions, to inflict them on others, and we hope our Correspondent will see the propriety of this caution. (Pater’s queries as to the good order being kept in the Grammar School appear in the March 26 issue. Very general questions—no one mentioned)
“Castigator” has been rescued from the “Lyon’s Mouth.” The assumption of this Signature has been triumphantly claimed by a more innocuous personage than our present Correspondent appears to be, judging him by the keen edge of is cutting sarcasms. But we must object to publish direct personal attacks. We agree with the immortal bard of Avon that General satire can only be usefully applied for the good of Society.
Standard
April 2, 1835
Apprentice Wanted
Wanted boy, about 12 or 14 years of age, of good moral habits, who has received a tolerable good English education, as an Apprentice to the Printing business, good references will be required, as to character, etc. Enquire at this Office.
Standard
April 9, 1835
Communications
To the Editor of the St. Andrews Standard
Sir,
Having recently been informed, that Mr. Robert Kennedy, master of the Schooner Lively, has reported in St. Andrews, and even gone so far as to publish in the Standard that “I passed him within a few rods when in a perilous situation, remaining on the bottom of the schooner Lively, which was hit by a squall in St. Andrews Bay on the 17th inst., and refused to render him any assistance.” Viewing said report, as an unfounded aspersion on my character, I send you the particular of that affair, as it transpired, and will then leave the public to judge, whether I am so abandoned to the feeling of humanity, as Mr. Kennedy represents me to be. . . . Mr. Kennedy’s misfortunes I sincerely regret, but I cannot think that the unmerited calumny thrown on my character by him would by any means retrieve his misfortune or sooth the afflicted feelings of that family in the County of Westmoreland, whom, I have too much reason to believe, owe their bereavement, in a great measure, to the incompetence or imprudence of Mr. Kennedy.
I am your Obt. Servt. Josiah Flagg
We the subscribers Passengers on board, the Matilda, the 17th inst., hereby certify that the statement made by Capt. Flagg, relative to the squall and disappear of the schooner Lively is correct.
Thomas Watson, Thomas Shannon
Grand Manan, March 30, 1835
Standard
May 13, 1835
Supplies of Lumber
The prospects of obtaining the entire proceeds of the forest this season are most cheering; the late rains have enabled the River Driver to get almost every stick out of the smaller streams, and in the course of a short time when the Lakes break up, the great drives will be brought down to the booms. At Magadavic it is expected that in the course of six weeks the will have pieces at the mills. And at Scoudic one mill owner informed us that his concern will have material to keep them going upwards of two years. There are no great Lakes on the Digdeguash but it is expected that the upper branches will be driven and the supply completed. (in the news lately the duty on flour which is being protested by James Rait and in the Legislature by Col. Wyer; also the timber duties—prices per acre for cutting on Crown Land.)
Death by fire
On the night of Sunday the 26th ultimo, one of those distressing calamities occurred in the new Gaol here, which is calculated to arouse many from the dream of security under which they allow time to slip away unimproved, and to awaken our sympathies for the friends of the deceased. The family of Capt. Snow, the Deputy Sheriff and Gaoler, had all retired to rest but Mrs. Snow, who was in the habit of remaining to see all locked and safe, It appears she had taken a seat by the fire, partly undressed herself and had fallen asleep, when by some unknown casualty her clothes caught fire. The flames had made fatal progress before her screams awoke her son and husband and brought them to her assistance. Capt. Snow got his hands severely scorched in tearing off the burning habiliments. Surgical aid was immediately procured, but without effect, and in the laps of two hours, Ms. Snow was relieved from all her sufferings.
Standard
May 13/1835
Articles concerning Rail Road from Maine to Quebec. .
Standard
May 21, 1835
Alms House and Work House
Commissioner Next Week—Jas. Boyd
Standard
May 28/1835
Balance Sheet for Charlotte County, 1834. List of employees and occupations. .
Charlotte County Bank. Pres. Harris Hatch.
Standard
May 28, 1835
Dear Sir,
I have to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 23d inst, enclosing the resolutions of a meeting convened at Brennan’s Hotel, relative to my resignation, as a director of the Charlotte County Bank. Whilst I value most highly the very flattering testimony that the meeting has been pleased to express of my conduct during that time I held a seat at the Board, I cannot refrain from assuring you, how much I regret my services as a director having been so undeserving the compliments so very handsomely paid me. That I retire from office accompanied with the friendly feelings of so respectable a portion of this community, is most gratifying to me; and I beg of you to convey to them my warmest acknowledgments of this public mark of their approbation.
I am dear Sir faithfully your, James Rait.
Standard
June 4/1835
Article on various cures for potato failure. From a Dublin Paper. Others in preceding issues.
Standard
June 18/1835
Population of New Brunswick counties. 1834 census. St. Andrews 1,945.
Standard
June 18, 1835
Population of the Province of New Brunswick, census 1834
York 10,478
Carleton 9,493
St. John 20,668
Kings 12, 195
Queens 7,204
Sunbury 3,838
Westmoreland 14,205
Northumberland 11,170
Kent 6,031
Gloucester 8,323
Charlotte 15,852
Parishes of Charlotte
St. Andrews 1st dist. 1945; 2nd dist. 1532
St. Stephen 2677
St. David 1575
St. George 2321
St. Patrick 1567
St. James 927
Pennfield 742
Grand Manan 956
West Isles 1110
Campobello 550
Grand Total 119,457
Last week a fine little child, fifteen months old, daughter of Mr. W. H. Knowles, while playing on the Market Wharf, by some incaution fell into the tide which was then nearly fully. The cries of the helpless infant attracted several persons to the spot, but no sufficient assistance was rendered until Capt. Monroe of the Schooner ? of Cornwallis perceived the child rise to the surface after having partially sunk, when under the impulse of that genuine humanity which acts on the instant, he plunged into the water from the deck of his vessel, caught the child by the clothes as she began to disappear and swam to the wharf steps. Although nearly gone, the successful efforts of parent and friends resuscitated the little sufferer and next day she looked all “roses and smiles.” It is a pleasing task to record such honorable acts as that of Capt. Monroe, who in addition to the weight of his habiliments had a considerable sum of silver and copper in his pockets, received on the sport for his produce, but who set aside very consideration to obey the calls of humanity.
Last Public Notice
The Subscriber is compelled once more to call upon the Subscriber to the late St. Andrews Courant, and also upon his advertising Customers throughout the Province, to pay their accounts without delay—although the sums due by each Delinquent may appear trifling, yet when it is taken into consideration that there are nearly 250 of such accounts unliquidated, ranging from 14s to 60s—the matter must appear in a more serious light—the following gentlemen will have the goodness to receive payments and give discharges: Hugh Munroe, Esq., Bathurst; James Taylor Esq., Fredericton; T. L. Nicholson, Esq., St. John, Gideon Knight, Esq., P. M. St. George; and Mr. William Campbell, or Mr. John Campbell, St. Stephen. Such accounts as remain unpaid on the 30th July next will be put in a train for collection without discrimination.
Colin Campbell
Late Editor and Publisher of the Courant
St. Andrews, 10 June, 1835
The printers of the Saint John Courier, Fredericton Royal Gazette, and Miramichi Gleaner, will please give the above three insertions and send in their bill to the Subscriber for payment.
C. C.
Edward Stentiford
Begs most respectfully to intimate to his friends and the public generally, that he carried on the wheelwright business, in all its branches, at the old gaol, St. Andrews. He has on hand, carts, wheels, wheel-barrows, wagons, etc. also all kinds of paints, oil, glass, turpentine, putty. Painting, glazing and paperhanging done on moderate terms. Wheelwork, make and repaired for cash or country produce.
Education
The Misses Watts respectfully intimate to the inhabitants of St. Andrews, and its vicinity, that they have opened a school, for the instruction of young ladies in the usual branches of an English Education; and also in plain and ornamental needlework.
May 19, 1835
Tobacco
Just received per “Edward Preble” from New York.
5 Kegs first quality tobacco, 16 hands to the lb. also bbls. And half bbls. New York superfine flour.
Do. Rye.
J. W. Street
Standard
June 18, 1835
Agents
St. Andrews Mr. S. Connick, Waweig, and Mr. R. Purvis, Chamcook
St. Stephen, Mr. W. Campbell, South Water, and J. McAllister, Milltown.
St. James, Mr. J. Buchanan, Oak Hill
St. David, Tristram Moore, Dennis Mills; Jas. Brown, Tower Hill, Mrs. Chalmers, Oak Bay.
St. Patrick, Mr. David Turner, Bocabec, and Mr. John Murphy, Digdeguash
St. George, Mr. Gilbert Ruggles, Lower Falls, and Mr. Joseph Pratt, Upper Falls.
Pennfield, Joshua Knight, Knight’s falls
Grand Manan, Wilford Fisher, Wds. Cove, and T. Shannon, North Head.
St. John, M. H. Perley
Richibucto, W. J. Layton
Miramichi, A. D. Sheriff
Bathurst, Joseph Reid
Fredericton, S. Barber
Halifax, William Grant
Wilmot, Zebina Hall
Calais, Thomas Brewer
Standard
July 9/1835
On the future of St. Andrews as watering place. and below.
Communication, to the Editor of the Standard
Sir, All intelligence relative to the gradual rise and progress of this fine Province, as regard its localities, its commerce or agriculture, must be of deep interest to those residing in it. Possessing great natural advantages, abounding in tracts of excellent land, immense forest of timber, mines of coal that appear almost exhausted, and large navigable rivers extending far into the interior, New Brunswick offers a field for the exertions of an enterprising people.
Very few attempts however have yet been made to disseminate information, respecting its actual condition. I am therefore induced to intrude upon you, though ill qualified for the task, a few notices on the flourishing County of Charlotte, which from its commanding situation on the borders of the Bay of Fundy, is accessible to vessels at all seasons; and from its numerous rivers has been enabled, for many years past, to maintain an extensive trade in the export of lumber and timber.
St. Andrews, the Shiretown , is situated at the head of the Bay of Passamaquoddy, on along narrow point, at the entrance of the River St. Croix. It was laid out in 1783, and now contains a population of nearly 2000. The streets are all at right angles, with a width of sixty feet, except the central street, which is eighty feet wide. The public buildings are, four places of worship, viz. an Episcopal Church, Scotch Kirk, Catholic Church, and Methodist Chapel, besides the Court House and Gaol, with a Grammar School. The Kirk deserves particular notice, on account of the elegance of its structure, and internal finish, having a spacious gallery, supported by rows of solid bird’s eye maple columns, and a tasteful pulpit of mahogany, beautifully inlaid with the native woods. It is acknowledged to be one of the handsomest edifices of the kind throughout the Provinces.
On the hill, in rear of the town, are the Military Grounds, which are occupied by a small detachment of soldiers.
The harbor is formed by an island, about a mile and a quarter in length, and connected with the town by a bar, dry at low water. At the southern extremity of the town, has been lately erected a small lighthouse, which enables vessels at high water, to enter the port in perfect safety.
The scenery on every side, is well worthy of attention. On the west side of the Saint Croix, is presented to the eye, at a distance of three or four miles, the rapidly rising farms of our enterprising neighbours the Americans, studded with houses and well filled barns: this fine prospect, is still further enlivened, by the passing and repassing of a number of topsails schooners, and occasionally a square rigged vessel, on their way to and from the newly formed settlements at the head of navigation of this River. In the Bay, in the south and east, are visible Deer Island, the Mascarene shore, and prominences at the estuary of the Magadavic. Towards the North, are the hills through which flows the Digdeguash, and the lofty Chamcook appears in bold relief, the whole forming an amphitheater, whose beauty, I may venture to say, is rarely excelled, on this side of the Atlantic.
The climate of St. Andrews is subject to no inconvenience from fog, to which all other places on the shores of the Bay of Fundy are liable, and is milder both in winter and summer, than any of the inland parts of the colony. Its contiguity to the sea defends it in winter from the intense cold of the interior, and from the same cause, the summer heats are moderated. A comparison of the meteorological observations, taken here, and at Fredericton, would afford a striking illustration of this fact.
During the months of January and February, in the latter place, the thermometer continues below zero, for several days in succession, and often ranges from 20 to 30 degrees below, while in July and August it is not uncommon to find it above 90. I have on one occasion, seen it as high as 101 in the shade, exposed to a northern aspect. These extreme vacillations, which are scarcely known at Saint Andrews, are very unfavourable to valetudinarians.
The City of Saint John, during summer, from its exposed situation on the shore of the Bay, is frequently liable to the fogs, which roll in at every change of wind to the southern quarter: while this part of the coast, is almost free from its attacks; being sheltered by the island in front, and by which the bay of Passamaquoddy is completely land locked.
With such attractions: a mild, healthy atmosphere, the sea coast, and picturesque, nay magnificent scenery, we need not be surprised at the opinion expressed by Dr. Mackie, an eminent medical character, who lately visited this place, that were its local advantages more generally known, St. Andrews would at not distant period, be resorted to, as a favorite watering place. Its means of communication with other parts of the Province, are becoming more extended both by land and water. Two Steamboats run regularly twice in the week, to Saint John, touching at Eastport, and usually perform the passage in nine hours. There is also a small Packet that runs constantly between this port and St. Stephen; and another to Philadelphia.
Considerable attention has been paid, of late, to the roads. A new and nearly direct line to Fredericton has been explored, for the purpose of superseding the present highway which has been long complained of, as nearly impassable in many places, and a survey is now in progress of the best line for a direct route by the way of St. Stephen to Woodstock, which will lay open a tract of country that is yet scarcely known.
Should you consider the above details worthy a place in your valuable paper, as calculated to the convey to your readers either instructions or amusement I shall endeavour to follow them up by further notices of St. Stephen, SG, and other parts of the County.
Topographos.
Standard
July 16/1835
From "The Augustan Age" out of Augusta, Maine. Meeting at Augusta concerning proposed RR to Quebec.
Standard
Sept 3/1835
To Prevent Musquetoes: Attach a piece of flannel or sponge to a threat made fast to the top of the bed spread, wet the flannel or sponge with camphorated spirits and the musquetoes will leave the room.
Piece on proposed Portland/Quebec Railway.
Piece on Railroad to access more remote timber land, as per 1834, by same editor, Mr. Smith, to which fact he himself alludes, nay directly mentions. Along Saint John River to Woodstock. Not totally partisan with regard to St. Andrews.
Agents for Standard in St. Andrews, St. Stephen, S James, David, St. Patrick, St. George, Pennfield, Grand Manan, Saint John , Richibucto, Miramichi, Bathurst, Fred, Halifax, Wilmot, Calais. More of a provincial paper than one might think.
The reappearance of Haley’s' comet has occasioned much interest in astronomy. Many articles on the subject.
The general delay for London newspapers seems just short of two months.
Standard
Aug 18, 1835
For Sale
100,000 bricks of the first quality, at Chamcook.
John Wilson
St. Andrews, Aug.11, 1835
New, Cheap and Fashionable Goods
D. Bradley, 1835
More New Goods
James Boyd, 1835
Standard
Sept 3, 1835
General Interests of New Brunswick (No. 3)
Many Years Ago is was a common matter of apprehension to persons engaged in the timber trade, that the forests were nearly exhausted, and the business drawing rapidly to a close in consequence of the disappearance of the material; but it was of pine they spoke, and that only which could be found of superior growth on or near the banks of the streams and rivers. Like spoiled pets, who have everything they desire put into their hands without the trouble of looking for anything, they were not conscious of the value they were sporting with, but began to whine and lament when they were obliged to penetrate so far into the forest, that with their . . . then fifty turns a day of their cattle to the waters with three or four tons on every load! Year after year found them venturing deeper and deeper into the wilderness, and still the confident assertion was made that a few seasons more would put an end to the pine groves! These alarms have proved utterly absurd, and even the tremendous fires of 1826 have not realized them; but the valuable spruce trade came in opportunely to dispel every fear and to render the hundreds of saw mills, now studding in the aggregate every available stream in the province, sources of permanent occupation and unceasing wealth.
From mere ignorance of the resources of this country it has been held in very meager estimation, and when we ventured merely to name the advantage of a railroad through this county, in our pars of July 1834, we were assailed with such ridicule and so much of “the world’s dream laugh, / which scarce the firm philosopher can scorn,” that we let the matter lie in abeyance until a fitter opportunity should arise for calling it forth. It is proper to state that several individuals took the project into consideration, and through the examination of its merits, and the scrutiny of the public, a conviction has arisen, that the undertaking is not only feasible, but one that would become most lucrative to the proprietors and of immense value to the Country.
Were a railroad made from the river Saint John in Woodstock, to our shores, this place would become the port of exit for the whole produce of the upper Country, and we pronounce the value of that produce to be immense. Lateral branches would run into it from all parts, and the supplies of lumber, which now depend on the uncertainty of season, would then depend on the certainty of orders for its shipment. In addition to such facilities, one of the most prominent advantages of the railroad would be the ease and cheapness with which the interior could be supplied with imports which it now receives through a circuitous route at an enormous expense.
We touch thus far and thus lightly on a subject which we have long contemplated with great interest; and as there is every probability that measure for exploring the best line will very soon be taken, we implore those who may have any power in directing or part in executing the same, by the duty they owe to their country—by their foresight for the benefit of posterity—by their sincerity to secure immediate advantage and lasting profit—the discard every selfish motive , to seek no local benefit, to avoid every mean and contracted consideration, and to devote all the r view honestly, energetically and patriotically for the good of the whole community.
Steam at Home
We are glad to find that when it was known here that the Steamboat “Woodstock” of Saint John River, was in the market; a number of our merchants and traders, persuaded that it is advisable to have Steam of our Own, subscribed the upset price, and Mr. Boyd has gone to bring the boat down, which may be expected here this evening. The Woodstock has always been a favorite with the public, and we trust she will continue to be such. She will ply to St. Stephen, St. George and Eastport. It is in contemplation to build a powerful boat here against next session, and we would suggest the appropriate name of the “Passamaquoddy.”
Wanted to Charter
A Vessel of 129 to 130 tons register, for a voyage to the West Indies—apply to William Ker, Agent
27th August, 1835
Standard
Sept 10, 1835
Pieces on Halley’s Comet. Long editorial on subject.
Standard
Sept 17, 1835
The Men in the Moon
We wonder how it escaped the notice of the lively author of the late fiction on Herschel’s discoveries [see previous edition] that a wonderful source of pleasure and instruction to the lunar inhabitants may exist in the fact that one hemisphere of the Moon is never presented to the Earth. That Satellite makes exactly one revolution on her axis whilst she completes her orbit round the Earth, so that she always keeps the same hemisphere turned towards us, and her day and night taken together are just the length of our lunar month. One half of her has no darkness, being enlightened at all times either by the sun or by us, and the other half has a fortnight’s total darkness and a fortnight’s solar light. It is demonstrated by astronomy that our earth is a moon to the moon; but that to one half of the Moon, we are never visible, while to middle of the other half we appear always over head, turning round nearly thirty times quicker than she does. To a lunar spectator, the Earth seems the largest and most glorious body in the universe, appearing thirteen times as large as the Moon does to us. Ferguson says “as the earth turns round its axis, the several continents, seas, and islands appear to the moon’s inhabitants like so many spots, of different forms and brightness, moving over its surface but much fainter at some times than others, as our clouds cover them or leave them. By these spots the lunarians can obtain the time of the Earth’s diurnal motion, just as we do the motion of the Sun; and perhaps they measure their time by the motion of the earth’s spots, for they cannot have a truer dial.”
Admitting that there are intelligent beings on the Moon, as well as every sphere which the Creator has launched into the void of space, what an amazing treat it must be for those lunarians who, inhabit what we would call the farthest side, to take a journey to her hither side and behold our terrestrial globe shedding forth is brilliant rays under the various forms to a crescent waxing into a full glowing circle, and then gradually waning and disappearing at the change. Even supposing that the inhabitants of her opposite hemisphere were physically adapted to their peculiarities of light and heat, yet from the circumstance of her western limb being turned a little more to the Earth at one period of a lunation than at another, while the eastern limb undergoes the same operation at another period, we may conclude that the links which we find connecting all the modes of existence in our mundane abode, are not wanting in the chain which connects the various classes that inhabit other spheres. It may therefore be fairly supposed that those intelligences who inhabit the region of libration in the Moon are the intermediates between the semper enlightened lunarians on the side next us, and those on the other side who have only thirteen days and thirteen nights in our year. The lunar atmosphere, which is not denied to exist, may extend this intermedial property, and modify the perception of light to the opposite inhabitants in a greater degree than climate is experienced by a traveler to the different regions of our Earth.
Mr. Alexander Watson, son of Mr. David Watson of this place [later Alexander Watson of St. Andrews Foundry?] heard a description given of a gun invented to be carried as a walking stick, and although the account of it was very general, it roused in him a desire to produce such another. We have seen specimens of these amateur fire arms, and can pronounce that which Mr. Watson has finished an admirable piece of workmanship, and deserving of particular notice on account of the invention of the ingenious artisan, who has accomplished his end by means different from any others we are acquainted with—The lock is contained within the barrel and the whole has the appearance of a highly finished walking stick.
Tallow Chandlery
The Subscriber respectfully announces to the public generally that he has commenced the Tallow Chandlery in this place. He hopes by constant attention to business to merit a share of public patronage.
Mould and dipt candles for sale cheap.
Orders left at C. Ingram’s Tailor, opposite the Post Office, will be punctually attended to. W. H. Ingram.
Standard
Sept 24, 1835
On Sale
400,000 new bricks at Chamcook where a vessel of any size can receive them afloat—at $5 per M for any quantity over ten thousand.
Sept 14, 1835
Standard
Oct. 1, 1835
Launch
The weather for some time past had been uncommonly fine and Saturday last shone auspiciously for an excursion. On that day a select party proceeded in the Steamer Woodstock from hence to Rigby’s Point on the St. Croix, and witnessed an interesting spectacle in the launch of the Erato, a very fine schooner of about 100 tons built for James Rait, Esquire, of this place. the Erato was launched with her masts standing, and made a most beautiful appearance as she entered the Harbour in tow of the Woodstock: the sky, the water, the scenery—all conspiring to render the sight imposing and fine.
Timber Duties
The disposition to tamper with the vital interests of these Colonies, which is attributed to the Whig ministry, has always appeared to us to be erroneously estimated. If in the present Cabinet there be a person who would sacrifice the very existence of these provinces to his personal gain, we may rest assured that his purpose cannot be carried in the present enlightened state of the question. On our first page is a statement on the Timber Trade, which, for ability, elegance and argument has seldom been surpassed, and must carry conviction of the impolity of the proposed duties, to the mind of any person open to the dictates of truth. [get this article]
Timber Duties Article
The question of the Timber Duties is again opened out for discussion; and it may well be asked, for what national purpose—for the promotion of the British interest, this discussion is revived?
Let the question be plainly stated—Who is it that complains of the existing state of these duties? Not the consumer in this country, nor the colonist, nor the British ship owner, but the producer of Foreign Timber. And what is his complaint? That the British colonies get too large a share of the wood trade.
The first feature, therefore, that presents itself in this discussion is, that it is a contest, not between one British interest and another, each claiming the considerate care of the Legislature—but between the British Colonies and British Shipping on the one side, and Foreign Timber and Foreign Shipping on the other.
It is essential to fix attention on this point, and for the better comprehending of the question, it will be well in inquire, from what cause it has arisen, that we find this Trade in the position in which it now stands—in other words, what were the circumstances that led to the development of the resources of the British Colonies for the supply of wood?
Down to the period of the memorable French war, and to that part of it, in particular, when the whole of the North of Europe fell under the dominion of French influence, this country relied for its supply of Timber on the North of Europe. the King’s ships could not be fitted out without the masts and spars, which were obtained from Russia and Prussia.
This source of supply was suddenly closed. Every port in the North of Europe was shut against us except those of Sweden. The import from the north of Europe, which in 1807 was 212,000 loads, fell in 1808 to 26,000 loads; the latter import being wholly, or nearly so, from Sweden—a country not producing a mast fit for the King’s navy.
What was to be done in this emergency? By what means were the stores of these indispensable supplies to be replenished in the King’s yards, and the other wants of the country to be provided for?
Recourse was had to the British Colonies. Great encouragement was offered to them to bring forward supplies of wood. The merchants were encouraged to enter into large contracts with the Commissioners of the Navy. Legislative protection was afforded to the trade. Timber, masts, and spars were brought in needful quantities. The King’s yards were supplied, and the blow aimed at the naval power of Great Britain was averted.
Under this system of encouragement, the Timber Trade of the British Colonies advanced rapidly in importance. From 1803 to 1807, the import of Timber from the Colonies was 6 percent of the whole import into the United Kingdom; from 1808 to 1812 it was 62 percent of the whole import.
In this state things remained until the year 1821, when it was considered expedient to review the state of the Timber Duties, in order to see whether the amount of protection granted to the Colonial Timber Trade was required to be continued in its whole extent. The result of that inquiry was a reduction of the amount of protection. The duty on Baltic timber had previously been £3 5s per load. British Colonial Timber paying nothing. The duty on Baltic Timber was reduced to £2 15 per load, and 10s per load was laid on Colonial Timber; thus reducing the amount of the protection from £3 5s to £2 5s per load.
Under this regulation of the duty, the country has the advantage of deriving, from two copious sources, an abundant supply of wood of every kind. The consumer, in every part of Great Britain, finds in the yard of the timber merchant, whatever he requires. An active competition between the importer from the Baltic and the importer from the British Colonies, secures him against unreasonable prices; and, in short, the public are abundantly supplied, and at a cheap rate.
Who then complains? The Foreign producer. He says, “I want to regain the supply of great Britain. I disapprove of the protection you continue to give to your own Colonies, and your own shipping; and I ask you to diminish the amount of that protection in order that I may regain the position I formerly held in the Trade.”
This is the complaint of the Foreign producer. But without looking to the principle involved in this complaint, let us stop for a moment to inquire how far it exists in degree.
In the eight years ending in 1807, the average annual import of Timber from the North of Europe was 205,248 loads. In the eight years ending in 1833, the average annual import was 157,336, so that the Baltic has lost the supply to this country of nearly 50,000 loads of Timber.
But this less in the supply of Timber has been pretty well compensated to the Foreign dealer by an increase in the supply of deals. In the years 1807, the import of Deals from the North of Europe amounted (as nearly as the cubical contents thereof can be ascertained) to 228,000 loads. In 1834 it amounted to 269,000 loads, so that putting the whole together, the Foreign producer supplies us with much about the same quantity of Wood that he did in 1807; although, in respect of Deals, the supply comes to us now in different proportions, from the several places of production.
It is quite true that, within the period just referred to, the whole import of Wood has increased in common with every other import, and that the British colonies have had the advantage of this increase. But is it to be made a matter of complaint or remonstrance by any party, that the benefit of the increasing traffic of this nation is thrown into the hands of our colonists and our ship owners?
Can it be seriously maintained that this is a ground on which Great Britain is to be called upon to depart from her colonial and shipping policy? For let it be observed, that this question involves the whole principle of that policy. If we concede to the Foreign grower of Timber, why not to the Foreign grower of corn, sugar and Coffee? In short, are we to maintain our colonial and navigation system, or not? What nation in Europe, is there possessing colonies that would listen to any proposal from us to their damage?
There is no need of argument to shew that an alteration in the scale of duty will diminish the import of Colonial Timber, and increase that of Baltic Timber. The advocates of the measure avow that they have no other aim or purpose.
Is this, then, a purpose to be gratified? What British interest will be served by it?
What intercourse can be more advantage us than that which we carry on with our own Colonies? The first cost of the Timber is spent in the employment of British Colonies and emigrant from the mother country; it is paid for by British manufactures; the Timber is brought in British shipping, navigated by British seamen. From first to last the whole circulation of money in the Trade goes to the employment of British industry and navigation.
Can it be wise to check a trade of this kind just as it has attained its maturity? It is sometimes suggested that the Revenue would be benefited by checking the Colonial import and encouraging the Baltic. Does any one seriously believe that the Revenue is really benefited by destroying British industry? The amount of exports from the United Kingdom, and its dependencies, to the British American Colonies, is annually three millions sterling, of which two millions are exclusively British and Irish produce and manufactures. The amount of freight paid in the Trade is annually upwards of a million. Will it be maintained that this expenditure does not contribute directly, and indirectly. To the Exchequer a much larger sum than any augmentation of duty from Foreign timber could bring in?
As to the consumer, he finds in the market Memel Timber £5 2 6 per load, Red Pine Canada timber at £4 10 0 per load, Yellow Pine Canada Timber at £3 10 0 per load. They are all reasonable prices; and it is a somewhat curious fact, that thirty five years ago Memel Timber was just about the same price that it is now, when the duty was only 11s per load, so that the consumer pays no more for Memel timber now than he did then, although the Exchequer is receiving 2£ 15s per load upon it, instead of 11s per load. The freight at that period was higher than it is now, which will account for a part, but only a part, of the difference.
Supposing, for the sake of argument, that the duty on Baltic timber should be reduced 10s per load, does any one believe that the consumer in this country, will find the benefit of that reduction? Far from it. The greater part of it will find its way into the pocket of the foreign producer, for the simple reason that as the Colonist can afford his Timber no cheaper than he does now, he must either obtain the price, he now does for it, or retire from the Trade.
It is clear that the consumer will not pay him a higher price for his Colonial Timber, the value of each description being already ascertained in the market. The Baltic producer would, therefore, gradually take the supply out of the hands of the Colonist; he would put into his own pocket the reduction of the duty, and the British consumer would get his Timber no cheaper than he does now.
The effect of deranging the Colonial Wood Trade, which has now grown to such importance, would be most disastrous. It has become interwoven with the whole welfare of the Colonies. It furnished employment during that period of the year when by the course of the elements, the operation of agriculture are suspended. Large establishments of sawmills involving a capital of 1,900,000 £ have been formed in the Colonies, for carrying on this trade. The number of ships entered inwards in 1833 from the British North American colonies was in 1803 measuring 512,67 tons, navigated by 23, 237 seamen. It affords a sure market for British manufactures. It is throughout a wholesome British Trade, deserving under every aspect in which it presents itself, the cordial protection of the Legislature.
An absurd argument has been used against this Trade, that the lumbermen employed in it are men of wandering and disorderly habits, not tending to promote the moral welfare of the Colonies. The fact itself is untrue to the extent to which it is urge. The lumbermen of the Colonies are in no degree more immoral than labouring men of the same class in other parts of the world. All men engaged in pursuits of great hardship and exposure to the elements, such as the bringing down rafts of timber on the rivers are apt to sustain their bodily exertions by the use of stimulants; wanderers they must, to a certain extent, be, because their occupation involves long and hazardous journeys. Was it ever urged as a moral objection to the Coal Trade, that the keelmen on the river Tyne, and the coalheavers on the Thames, are a class of people too much given to the use of ardent spirits? Shall we break up our manufacturing establishments in Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Scotland, because we are not entirely satisfied with the moral condition of the population employed in them? If we can improve that condition, let us do it, but not by destroying their means of subsistence.
Let it be remembered, too, that the timber men to whom the foregoing remarks has been applied form but a limited portion of the population engaged in the wood trade. At various stations in the Colonies, where these lumbermen carry on their operations, they employ the people of the neighbourhood, who are of as fixed and regular habits as any other class of the population.
Again, it has been urged that the people, by being withdrawn from the Wood Trade, would more advantageously employ themselves in Agriculture. This suggestion is made in defiance of the notorious fact, that, for six months in the year, agriculture is suspended. It is one of the peculiar merits of the Wood Trade in the Colonies, that it affords employment during a period of the year, when other labours are unavoidably at a stand.
Canada is now producing more corn than her population consumes. There is no market for it in this country. Canada Wheat has been lying in London for the last months unsold, we are therefore called upon to discourage the production of Wood in Canada, which we do want, to turn the industry of the people towards the production of Corn, which we do not want!
An argument has been attempted to be raised on the following hypothesis. It is stated that, according to the market prices of last year, Canada Red Pine Timber, yielded a net produce in the London market of £1 12 6 per load, Canada Yellow Pine of 9 15 6 per load, Memel Timber of 1 0 0 per load. The Red Pine being that quality which comes more directly in competition with Memel Timber, it is suggested that it ought not to leave a larger net price than Memel, and consequently that a measure of protection which leads to such a result, is extreme in degree.
This argument deserves a fair and candid consideration.
Let it be asked, in the first place, whether the importer, in getting £1 12s 6d per load, net proceeds, for Red Pine, is getting an unreasonable profit?
It appears that, on the average of the last five years, the shipping price of Red Pine at Quebec has been eight pence per foot, or £1 13s 4d per load. There is, therefore, no margin for reducing the gain of the importer.
Secondly, Can the producer at Quebec afford the article at a cheaper cost?
The ascertaining the exact price at which an article can be produced is always a matter of difficulty, but there are some palpable considerations here which cannot mislead us. The Crown derives a revenue of 1d per foot on all Red Pine Timber cut in Canada on the Crown Lands, whence nearly the whole of the supply of Red Pine is obtained, which at once forms a deduction from the £1 12s 6d of 4s 2d per load, reducing it, consequently to £1 8 4 per load, as compared with Memel Timber. There then remains a difference of cost between Memel and Red Pine of 8s 4d per load. Will appear extraordinary when it is recollected that, in the colonies, the rate of wages are from 3s 6d to 4s per day; while in Prussia and Poland it is not a sixth part of that sum, the labour there being performed by serfs or bondsmen. Is it a bold assertion to say, that with such a difference in the value of labour, forming as it does so vast an ingredient in the production and transport of timber, there is nothing remarkable in the colonist requiring a higher remuneration than the Prussian producer, to the extent of 8s 4d per load?
Will it be said that as Prussia can supply the article at a lower first cost than Canada, Prussia ought to be encouraged to do so? The answer is plain. Prussia does now supply us on these terms; we do get our timber at this rate; we get all we want of it; if we alter the relative position between them and the colonies, to the advantage of Prussia, she will get a better price for the timber, and that increase of price will go into the pockets of her own traders. No person accustomed to watch the course of commercial affairs will hesitate to come to this conclusion.
The question affects the shipping interest to an extent that, considering the actual depressed condition of that interest, it is appalling to contemplate. Is the employment of so large a portion of tonnage, a matter to be trifled with? Much in the same proportion, in which we may transfer the Wood Trade, from the colonies to the Baltic shall we displace the employment of British Shipping. Under the operation of the Reciprocity Act, the Foreign Ship owner is gradually getting the whole of the carrying trade as the following statement will show:
In the years preceding the Reciprocity Act, 1820, 1821 and 1822, the import from Prussia was, in British Shipping, 30 percent; Prussian, 70 percent. From Sweden in the first named period, it was, in British shipping, 63 percent, Swedish, 37 percent. In the last period it was, in British Shipping, 32 percent, Swedish 68 percent. From Norway, in the first period, it was in British shipping, 17 percent, Norwegian 83 percent. In the last period it was in British shipping 5 percent, Norwegian 95 percent.
What other result could follow from depriving the British ship owner of the protection he had previously enjoyed by a moderate discriminating duty, and thus leaving hi to an equal competition with the foreign owner, navigating his ship at less than half the expense of the British ship owner and free from the severe restrictions to which the latter for national purposes is subject?
When the last Mr. Huskisson was, in very precise terms, forewarned of this, he replied, “Don’t be alarmed, gentlemen—the superior intelligence and management of the British ship owner will always enable him to compete successfully with the foreigner.” It is not the first time that the practical consequence has been at fault with the previous speculation of theory.
Since the resources of the Colonies have been drawn forth, it has been found that the larger description of masts for the King’s navy are obtained there; and, in fact, that of equal size and quality they are not be had in the Baltic. Nobody will dispute the national importance of keeping open such a means of supply. But this can only be done by maintaining the timber trade generally. Masts cannot be obtained by themselves. It is impossible to penetrate a forest, and select those trees alone fit for this use.
Staves are an article to which similar remarks apply. They are of indispensable necessity to us. The Baltic does not yield us a free supply of them. During the last year, in particular, Baltic staves were at an enormous price. Any circumstance which should diminish to the consumer in this country the supply of staves, would be a great practical grievance. But they cannot be advantageously brought from Canada apart, from other wood. They form in all cargoes what is termed the broken stowage, and in this way they are brought at reasonable rate of freight. In no other way can they be brought without a great increase of cost to the consumer.
In whatever point of view this question is considered, it will be found to present the certain mischief of deranging a very important and interesting brand of British industry, without any countervailing compensation to any British interest.
The idea that Prussia will take more of our manufactures, if we take more of her timber, is a pure abstract speculation. Prussia will do in this, and in all else, exactly what she thinks will suit her own interest. She will take only from us that which she cannot get cheaper elsewhere and she will continue her industrious efforts to foster her own manufactures, and exclude ours to the utmost extent of her power.
With question of the Timber Duties there is mixed up another question, having no reference to the general policy of the existing system. It is contended that the mode of levying the duty on Deals enables them to be imported at a less rate of duty for their solid contents than timber; and that it is an absurd arrangement so to regulate the duty, as that deals of the longer lengths are brought in at a less proportional duty than the shorter lengths.
In whatsoever way the question of bringing the rate of duty on Deals nearer to that of Timber may be disposed of, which is purely a matter of regulation, the same principle must be preserved that has always prevailed, of making the scale of duty favorable to the longer lengths. Russia and Prussia, which produce the longer lengths, are enabled by this means to compete with Norway in sending deals to this country, and we preserve the important object of keeping open several sources of supply. Take away this turn of the scale in favour of the more distant countries and Norway at once gets possession of our market from which country we should, as has already been shown, have the satisfaction of seeing the wood brought in shipping, of which ninety five out of every hundred would be Norwegian.
The resources which the British American Colonies furnish for emigration, are so insignificant part of their value to the mother country. Fifty-thousand emigrants, from the United Kingdom, land upon their shores. Can it be wise to deprive these newly arrived settler of the employment which the wood trade is sure to furnish to them, during that potion of the year when agricultural labour is suspended? Could they find such cheap conveyance to Canada, but for the timber ships which carry them out.
The proper way of looking at our Colonies, is to regard them as part and parcel of our own soil—as an extension, in short, of the mother country. There is no practicable measure of encouragement we can afford them to which they are not fully entitled, and for which they will not make us an ample return. Is it nothing that they have now made us independent of the North of Europe for the supply of wood, and secured us, in that respect, from the danger of any future political collision, which should again close to us the Baltic Ports, without adverting to the benefits they have rendered to this country by preventing the great advance in the price of timber, which must have taken place, if for our greatly increased consumption, we had been left to rely on the North of Europe alone?
Advantages such as these should not be placed at the mercy of speculative theory or needless experiment.
London, July 1835
The Comet
This interesting luminary is making accelerated progress through our system, and may be descried by the eye, unassisted by artificial aid; but with a glass of very small power it can be seen to great advantage. It may be sufficient for ordinary purposes to say that it rises in the N. N. E. about 10 o’clock pm and reaches its meridian altitude, near our Zenith, a little after 6 am, consequently it may be most conveniently examined from 2 till
5 o’clock in the morning. At half past three the Pleiades (or 7 stars) are on the meridian; and then almost due East, below the bright star Capella, the Comet may be discovered. The moon light will interfere with its brilliancy for a few days.
Awful Warning
On Sunday morning last, a labourer came to the Tavern of Mr. George Watson and wished to procure some liquor. Mr. Watson perceiving that he was then in a stupor of intoxication, gave him a positive denial. He then went into the yard, and tumbled head foremost into the barn; but recovering himself contrived to get into the manger and lay down among some hay. Mr. Watson being informed of this, immediately repaired to the spot to dislodge him, but in the brief interval which we have just detailed this unfortunate victim of intemperance had breathed his last. This is the third instance of a similar catastrophe which as occurred here in the space of not many months, and although in our small community we desire to avoid wounding the feelings of the unhappy relatives by withholding the names of the miserable sufferers, yet we question whether it would not better serve the interests of temperance to blazon forth the names of such self-destroyers, and show all those who render themselves liable to meet so ignominious an end, the disgraceful record they may expect, especially (as in the present case) when they entail misery and want on a heart stricken widow and helpless offspring.
Standard
Oct. 1/1835
Rail Roads—
In a preceding column may be found some pertinent remarks by the Editor of the Montreal Gazette on the proposed Railways to Quebec from Boston, Portland, and Belfast. We have also made some extracts from an ale report on the vallies of the Etchemin and Chaudiere, by Captain Yule of the Royal Engineers; who was appointed by His Excellency Lord Aylmar to make a reconnaissance in August last, in compliant with an address from a Committee of Citizens of Quebec, appointed to promote a Railway Communication between that City and the Atlantic, through the State of Maine. Col. Long of the U. S. Service has also made a report on the Portland and Quebec Route, which we have likewise inserted.
The great object of the Canadians is to overcome the untoward circumstances of their being shut out from marine commerce for one half of the year, and a very feasible means of accomplishing this object presents itself in the construction of Railways from the Saint Lawrence to the Atlantic. The Americans, fully aware of the immense benefits which their country would derive by possessing the transit of British and Colonial trade have entered on the exploration of practicable routes through different departs of Massachusetts, Maine and Vermont, with a vigour and perseverance which shows the value they set on its accomplishment. They will engage to carry the whole line as far as Quebec, if authority be given them by the Provincial Government. With these facts before our eyes, does it not become an important inquiry, to us, whether an opening may not be made through our own territories, which would equally serve the commercial purposes of Canada, and diffuse the benefits which would flow from it over these provinces?
We find a remarkable coincidence in the opinions of the Belfast people and those of Capt. Yule as to the effect the Railways through Maine would have in extending their advantages to this province; but Capt. Yule in considering the best direction for a permanent line, throw out a hint that it is highly important to keep in view the intended Steam-boat communication from Valentis to Halifax, and that a more easterly course of the line from Quebec, would lead through New Brunswick. An attentive perusal of the copious extracts in our preceding columns will tend to elucidate the preliminary observations we now make on a subject which is of paramount importance to British North America; and to no portion of it more than our own.
Other ages have been celebrated as the days of invention, but the present period may be called the era of execution. Splendid and extensive projects produce surprise and distrust at their first announcement, and are often the subject of ridicule, but our present experience should enable us to correct this error, which is the bane of enterprise and the direct enemy to genius. A quarter of a century ago, he would have been considered a bedlamite who should have suggested the possibility of covering the ocean with ships divested of sails but perfectly adapted to the purposes of navigation; or of propelling vehicles on land at a rate exceeding the velocity of the wind; yet we have seen these miracle performed and progressively extending their wonders. Under these views we do not entertain any serious doubt of seeing a Railway extending directly from this town to Quebec; and w shall conclude the present article with a quotation from a paper written by Henry Fairbairn Esq. and published upwards of three years ago in the Untied Service Journal, entitled “Progress for Maine Railways across the Isthmus of Panama, and in the British Possessions in North America: . . . .
Long article from London on timber duties, with especial reference to prices on Baltic lumber.
Standard
Oct. 8/1835
Joseph Howe proposed railroad from Halifax to Windsor.
St. Andrews/Quebec Railroad—meeting to consider formation of Company.
Standard
October 9, 1835
The St. Andrews and Quebec Railroad bill referred to in our last, having been inclosed by Mr. Rait to the members of Council and Assembly for this County, together with a letter embracing in general terms the leading objects of the Bill, these gentlemen intimated their intention of laying the same before the Public, in consequence of which a large and respectable meeting of the Merchants and other Inhabitants of St. Andrews and the neighouring parishes was held at Smith’s News Room on the 5th inst. To take into consideration the formation of a Company, having for its object the highly important and gigantic project of constructing a Railroad from the Port of St. Andrews to communicate with the City of Quebec.
The Hon. James Allanshaw was unanimously requested to take the Chair, Thomas Wyer Esq. was appointed Deputy Chairman, and Adam Jack Esq. was requested to act as Secretary.
The Chairman opened the meeting by stating in a very clear and lucid manner the importance of the object in view, and called attention to the movement now before the public of the two Canadas, on this all important subject; he also alluded to the stirring industry of our neighbors in the State of Maine respecting a communication from some of the sea ports with Quebec by Rail Roads. He then adverted to the immediate and decisive measures which should be undertaken by the proposers of the present scheme to meet the views of those persons in Canada friendly to the undertaking, ere they or the Government of the Canadas should pledge themselves to support the views of any of the American companies.
Resolutions were then introduced expressive of the opinion of the meeting, namely, that a railroad from Canada to the nearest winter harbor in new Brunswick would be of great national importance and of incalculable benefit to the interests of the North American Provinces and to British Trade and Commerce generally.
That it was the sense of the meeting, that the route or line of communication from St. Andrews to Quebec from all the information that can be relied upon, is the best and most natural one that can be proposed.
That the profits arising from the transportation of merchandise passengers etc. from Quebec and the Atlantic, would in the opinion of the meting be commensurable to the cost of constructing a railroad and fully justify that great and important undertaking.
That a Chairman, Deputy Chairman, and five committee men be appointed to prosecute the views of the association.
That the honorable James Allanshaw be Chairman.
Thomas Wyer Esq. Deputy Chairman
Harris Hatch, John Wilson, James Rait, Samuel Frye, J. McMaster be the Committee, and Adam Jack be the Secretary and Treasurer of the association. A paper was then sent round for signatures by all parties proposing to become members of the association.
That the Committee forthwith prepare an address to His Excellency Sir Archibald Campbell praying his countenance in furtherance of the views of the association.
A Sum of money was then subscribed to defray preliminary expenses.
The Hon. James Allanshaw having left the chair, it was occupied by Colin Campbell, Esquire, High Sheriff of the County, and the thanks of the meeting expressed to Mr. Allanshaw for his able and impartial conduct in the Chair. [The bill itself appears in this issue, from September Sessions—quite lengthy]
Standard
Sept 19/1835
Proposed St. Lawrence - Maine RR will pass through Lake Megantic.
Standard
Nov 19, 1835
Fire
About half past 1 o’clock on Wednesday morning, the town was alarmed by the cry of fire, which was found issuing from the house occupied by Mr. James Jackson, as a brewery, and owned by Mrs. MacAleavy. The fire had got fairly ahead before the bells were rung, and in a short time, the house was totally destroyed, no insurance.
[New Brunswick merchants banding together to protest possible alterations on the timber duties]
Standard
Nov 19, 1835
If William Moore and Molly Armour or Moore his wife, (who emigrated some considerable time ago from Ireland to Saint Andrews, New Brunswick,) will apply to the Rev. Alexr. MacLean, Minister of the Scotch Church in that town the will both hear of something to their advantage.
Saint Andrews, Sep. 22, 1835.
Standard
Nov. 26/1835
Proposal for St. Stephen-Milltown RR fails in Provincial Council, much to editor's dismay, because 24 million feet of lumber are annually sluiced down the waterway injuriously and expensively.
Standard
Nov 25, 1835
Saint Stephen
We understand that our friends in Saint Stephen, have it in contemplation to apply at the next session of the Legislature, for an Act to incorporate a Bank at that place, with a capital of 50,000 lbs.
An Act to incorporate the Saint Stephen and Milltown Railroad Company, which failed in the Council after passing the House of Assembly at the last session, with every prospect, we are told, of success—the primary step of reading the Bill at the General Sessions of the Peace (it being of local operation) the want of which was the cause of its failure last winter, having now been complied with. These important and useful undertaking deserve every encouragement the country can afford them. Indeed it has been matter of surprise to us, taking into consideration the trade and capital of Saint Stephen, that a Bank has not been established there before. The great utility of the institution cannot be disputed. And when we are aware that upwards of twenty four million feet of lumber would annually find its way down the contemplated Railroad, from the place of manufacture, to a place of shipment—and thereby abolish the present injurious and expensive mode of sluicing—we are equally surprised that any person be found to oppose an undertaking like this, fraught with so many advantages to the inhabitants of Saint Stephen in particular, and the county of Charlotte in general. But such there are. And we now furnish a timely hint to the projectors of the Saint Stephen and Milltown Railroad, to arouse their dormant energies, and by dint of plain truth, and solid argument, sweep away the petty obstacles that many be thrown in their path at the next meeting of the Provincial Legislature—to the Intelligence of our neighbours, no more can be required.
Standard
Dec 3/1835
Many reports of railroads springing up in US and England. The shipping journal for St. Andrews seems nowhere as extensive as in the preceding two years. The editor seems a temperance man. Occasionally sympathetic articles on tragic deaths—boy by gin, man in St. Andrews suffocating in barn full of hay.
Standard
Dec 3, 1835
Saint Stephen
To show the rising importance of this village, we subjoin the following list of vessels, owned and sailing out of Saint Stephen, together with the names of their enterprising owners.
Nehemiah, 275 tons, Owner N. Marks
Sarah Henrietta, 250, do
Hester, 232, do
Susan, 195, do
Caroline, 140, do
Royal William, 276, William Porter
Sir John Moore, 75, do
Emeline, 130, F. H Todd and Co.
Robert , 185, do
Cadwallader, 156, John Marks
Eliza Ann, 190, R. N. Lindsey
Janet Grant, 97, Alexander Grant
Unity, 151, W. and J. Andrews
Woodbine, 190, John McAllister
Total tonnage: 2642
We have endeavored to be accurate in the above statement, but possibly having reference to no official documents, our statement may be incorrect—a few tons more or less. It sufficiently shows, however, that in the account of vessels belonging to the Port of Saint Andrews, Saint Stephen lays claim to a large proportion. These vessels are, with the exception of the Royal William Whaler, engaged nearly all in the West India trade. The contemplated railroad will supply them with cargoes of boards, more free from splits and shakes than the sluice can furnish them, and loading as they will from the wharves, the lumber will be better in appearance and the mud now sent with the boards to the West Indies, will be left for its beneficial purpose—to manure the soil.
We had nearly omitted to mention that all the above are new vessels, built within the last three or four years.—Calais Advertiser
We are much gratified to have it in our power to announce to the public that the deputation of the St. Andrews and Quebec Railroad Association started yesterday morning for Canada. It consists of Harris Hatch, John Wilson, James Rait, and John McMaster, who intend as we understand to pass through the State of Maine by way of the Kennebec Road to Quebec, where they will most probably meet the exploring party, ascertain from them the general tenor of their final report, and communicate the same to the Governor General, and public of Canada; who we feel every confidence will cordially approve the views of the association here, and cooperate with effort in the proposed magnificent undertaking.
St. Andrews Day in St. Andrews
A large party of Scotsmen jointed by a number of the Sons of St. George and St. Patrick dined together on Monday the 3rd inst. At Mr. Brennan’s Hotel in celebration of the anniversary of the Patron Saint of Scotland. Colin Campbell, High Sheriff, in the Chair, Thomas Wyer, Croupier.
We noticed amongst the company many of the “old familiar faces” who by their hilarity and good humour “were wont to set the table in a roar,” but some which we missed, and sorry we are on their account, as they lost he chance of what was pronounced one of the best dinners ever prepared on an occasion of the kind in their country.
On the removal of the Cloth the Chairman gave:
The Day and all who honor it with 3 times 3
The King, do
The Land o Cakes, do
Lord Gosford Governor General of British North America, with 3 times 3
Lieut. General Sir Colin Campbell Governor of Nova Scotia, with 3 times 3
Major General Sir Archibald Campbell Governor of New Brunswick with 3 times 3
Navy and Army of Great Britain, 3 times 3
Lady Campbell and the fair of New Brunswick with 3 times 3
Honest men and Bonny Lasses, 3 times 3
Our brethren the Sons of St. George, St. Patrick and St. David 3 times 3
The land that give us milk and the land that gives us bread, 3 times 3
A number of most appropriate and happy volunteer toast followed
The Chairman stated that since sitting down he had received a note from Mr. Rait, stating how much he regretted his inability to join the company on the occasion, and requesting as a particular favor, that they drink to the “memory of the late John Campbell, which was accordingly given from the Chair and drank in a solemn silence.
James Brown, esq. of St. David’s was requested by the Chair to favor the company with his spirited but pathetic song, commemorative of the local “worthies of the older times,” which he executed in his usual happy style. This song has become quite a “standing dish” (regular as the Haggis) at our St. Andrews feast, and was most heartily cheered.
The health of the Stewards was given by Col. Wyer for the sumptuous and elegant manner in which they had provided on the occasion. Mr. Jack on behalf of the Stewards returned thanks for the compliment, and assured the company that the office of steward had been quite a sinecure on this occasion, all the credit for the style and plenitude of the feat being due to Mr. Brennan and his Chef Sorley.
Several excellent songs from Messrs. Harley, Boyd, Sime, Brown and others enlivened the Company, and kept them together until the “wee short hours ayout the twal” warned them home, when all departed in the most perfect good humour, singing in full chorus “When shall we three meet again.”
Standard
Dec 13/1835
Some new New Brunswick Companies
New Brunswick East India Company
Shediac and Petticodiac RR
Richibucto and Grand Lake RR
St. Andrews and Quebec RR
St. Stephen Whaling Co.
(whaling ships sail out of St. Andrews as well)
Standard
Dec 24, 1835
On Monday the 21st day of December inst. Two seamen of the Brig Agenora, Robert Gray, master, were brought up for examination before Thomas Wyer, Esq. and the Honorable James Allanshaw, upon a charge of Mutiny and Desertion.
It appeared that on the tenth day of December, that the crew of the Agenora consisting of ten men, all shipped about 4 o’clock, that the Vessel then lay at the Eastern Ballast ground, and was to proceed to sea early next morning, but that about seven o’clock in the evening, the Captain, Pilot, and Mate, who were all in the Cabin heard a loud noise near the Companion doors, and the Mate went at once to ascertain the cause of it, but as soon as he had opened the door it was forcibly closed that he made another attempt and succeeded in opening the door, where he discovered two seamen standing near it, one with a pistol in his hand, and the other with a pump brake, that they both swore they would knock out the first man’s brains who attempted to come up, that the Captain, Mate and Pilot, not having any fire arms or weapons, were not in a condition to make resistance, when seven of the semen (amongst which were the two prisoners) possessed themselves of the long boat, cut the painter and made for Deer island, where they landed at the risk of their lives, the boat going to pieces in the surf, and the wind blowing a gale at the time. They subsequently reached Eastport, in the State of Maine, where owing to the exertions of Messrs. Babcock and Son and the prompt assistance of the civil authorities, there, the two prisoners, with another of the crew, who was admitted as a witness, were arrested and brought here, the other four having unfortunately for the public made their escape. The Justice committed the two prisoners for mutiny, to take their trial at the next Court of Oyer and Terminer for the County, the witness not having been able to find bail was also committed. The Justices also bound over Mr. George Watson, of this town, as accessory before the fact to appear and take his trial at the same time.
J. W. Chandler and G. D. Street Esquires appear as Council, on behalf of the Prosecution.
Standard
Dec 31, 1835
We are happy to announce the return of a part of the railroad deputation to Canada. Harris Hatch and J. McMaster Esquires, arrived here early on Thursday morning last from Quebec, where they parted company with John. Wilson and Jas. Rait, the other part of it, who proceed to Montreal in furtherance of the object of their mission.
We are extremely gratified to learn that the Deputation were cordially received and that the splendid project of constructing a railroad from St. Andrews to Quebec was most unequivocally and highly approved, and sanctioned in the fullest manner, by His Excellency the Governor General in Chief, as well as by the members of Council and Assembly, Merchants and Public generally. Indeed it could scarcely have been anticipated that so great an undertaking would have met such immediate, warm and general support.
We most joyfully congratulate the association on the great accession of strength, which they have thus early obtained; and which added to the stead and invaluable patronage of His Excellency sir Archibald Campbell, with the heads of department, etc., in this Province, places the projected scheme far in advance, and promises a speedy and efficient organization; and we are authorized to say that the progress now made will be given to the public on the return of the absent members of the Deputation.
Rait Road from Canada to New Brunswick
A deputation composed of the following gentlemen of St. Andrews, (New Brunswick;) viz. Messrs. James Rait, Harris Hatch, John Wilson, and John McMaster, arrived on Wednesday, to consult the Merchants and inhabitants of Quebec on the project of forming a railroad to New Brunswick. They saw some gentlemen of the Board of Trade, yesterday, and we learn are to meet it tomorrow.—Quebec Gazette
Schooner Edward and Mary, Crosby, of an for this port from St. Andrews, with a cargo of dry goods, run ashore on one of the Turket Islands, during the snowstorm of Tuesday night, the 15th inst. The crew and passengers (the latter being Capt. Baker and Crew so Brig John McCullum of this port, now frozen in at St. Andrews) landed on the Island, where they built a fire. The weather was so intensely cold, and nearly all of them had their hands and feet frozen. On Friday Captains Crosby and Baker, and three of the crew succeeded in reaching Chabogue Point, in the boat, and on making known the circumstances, a small vessel (furnished with blankets, medicines, etc.) was immediately dispatched in aid of the sufferers remaining on the Island. We understand they are now all nearly recovered. One bale of good only has yet been saved from the wreck, which was held at session of Wednesday—Yarmouth Herald
Died
On Saturday last Mrs. Rachel Mowat, aged 73 years, relict of the late Captain John Mowat of this town.
Standard
Dec 31/1835
H Hatch, James Rait, John Wilson, John McMaster in Quebec re railroad