Item
St. Croix Courier
Feb 16/1888
The Bay Pilot says that Hon. Benjamin R. Stevenson has leased, for a term of years, Linden Grange, Sir Leonard Tilley's summer residence, and will take possession thereof next month.
Pilot
Feb 16/1888
What Does It Mean?
Several owners of real estate in St. Andrews and vicinity have recently been approached by American gentlemen, with a view to ascertain if they could be induced to sell their property, and if so at what price. In two or three instances memorandums have been issued by which the owners agree to accept amounts for their property, stated in said memorandums the parties of the other part to have the refusal thereof up to the dates mentioned therein. It is also reported that the parties referred to have an eye upon the almshouse farm. We think however the ratepayers of St. Andrews will not be so foolish as to part with that property.
St. Croix Courier
Feb 23/1888
Coming to Musquash
Says the Sun: A number of Boston gentlemen have obtained a lease of the big lake on the Musquash river, for a term of years and it is intended to erect several club houses on the shores of the lake early in the spring. Arrangements are about completed for the erection of three club houses, one of which will accommodate about twenty people, the second twelve, and the third about eight. On Tuesday, Ben D. Wyatt, of Calais, who has the matter in hand, visited Musquash, accompanied by Henry E. Cobb, of Brewster, Cobb and Estabrooks, Boston, and Mrs. Cobb, Mrs. and Mrs. Andrews S. March and Mr. and Mrs. John P. Goodrich, of Boston, and C. A. Robertson of this city. The Boston gentlemen selected a site on which their house will be erected, and the party returned to the city on Wednesday delighted with their trip. The above-mentioned gentlemen contracted with Elijah Ross of Carleton for the construction of six boats to be used on the lake next summer. A large number of prominent American gentlemen have decided to spend next summer at the lake, and in the course of a few weeks, the erection of the house will be commenced. Several St. Stephen and Calais gentlemen are interested in their enterprise.
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 St. Andrews, 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.
[March 1/1888— Robert Gardiner to B. R. Stevenson MS3-Y-117: "Telegram from Mr. Osburn informs me that you now consider yourself retained by our syndicate. Therefore, I enclose you draft of act desired to be passed by present legislature, and it is sent to you that as attorney for the Co. you may proceed immediately to secure its passage. Sir Leonard Tilley informs us that the law requires 4 weeks previous publication in the "Royal Gazette" before presenting to the legislature; compliance with that rule would throw it over into next session, but it is suggested that a "suspension of the rules" is not an uncommon thing or difficult to bring about, and such seems to be our only course now.
It is suggested that any names of residents can be assigned as corporators that you select, and who will resign when we wish, and you can also if desired include any of the following names: J. Emory Hoar, Brookline Mass; Eugene F. Fay, ibid; Rosco A. Cobb, ibid; Albert D. S. Bell, Newton, Mass; Robert Gardiner, ibid; Chas. V. Lord, Bangor, Maine; Abraham Avery, Boston, Mass; Daniel B. Claflin, Newton, Mass.
There are other members of the syndicate, but it is for certain reason not desirable to use these names. And it is for your decision whether the names of many Americans will interfere with the chance of its going through under a "suspension of the rules."
The enclosed has been gone over very carefully by an attorney and others here and is pronounced satisfactory. If in your judgment any alterations and additions are necessary, I will thank you to first inform me, that such changes may be considered here.
Please acknowledge receipt and give me your opinion of the practicability of putting it through.
I will add that we consider it of the utmost importance to act promptly, else a similar move may be made by outside parties. Please use enclosed cipher for correspondence with Mr. McGraw, Mr. Fay (The Treasurer) or myself.]
Pilot
Feb 23, 1888
Some idea may be formed of the large benefit derived from the turnip crop of the parishes of St. Andrews, St. Croix and St. Patrick, from the fact that during the past winter Mr. B. F. Estes (representing T. P. Blake, now the Boston Produce Co., consolidated, of Boston, Mass.) has bought and shipped 68 cars and one schooner load, paying in round numbers $12,000 in cash. This has gone into the pockets of some 20 farmers in St. Patrick, and 40 in St. Andrews and St. Croix. Mr. Estes has a good record with the farmers as a square businessman. This does not begin to represent the actual quantity raised and exported. A number of farmers who are prominent in agriculture such as John Mowatt, the veteran turnip grower of St. Croix, market their own crop, thereby making all that is to be obtained therefrom. From careful enquiry we have ascertained that there remains still some 10,000 bushels for disposal in the three parishes.
Pilot
March 1/1888
Fire at Slabtown
The house on the Commons occupied by Moses Stewart, Mrs. Brixon [this would have been Maria Brixon, daughter of Jessie; very likely Maria and Charles Norris moved in with Moses, living alone perhaps after the death of his wife in 1877] and C. H. Norris (colored) was with its contents destroyed by fire last Tuesday evening. The fire probably originated in a defective flue. No insurance.
Great Movement in Real Estate
"A project initiated some months ago by F. W. Cram, Esq., General Manager of the New Brunswick 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 others opposite the residence of Rev. Canon Ketchum. 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 Saint 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 New Brunswick, 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 St. Andrews, 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 mariner 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 New Brunswick 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 St. Andrews, who will be glad to see either or both contingencies realized." [Clearly the watering place is second choice]
St. Croix Courier
March 8/1888
It is said that a New York syndicate is negotiating for the purchase of Chamcook Mountain.
Pilot
March 8/1888
Land boom. and below.
"Since our last issue we have learned of the following movements in real estate: The American syndicate have purchased from the church corporation the 10-acre field just outside the town limits, occupied by Alex. Bell, also the three-acre lot on the hill, lying between the cemetery road and Fort Tipperary, recently under lease to Mr. Samuel Billings and have bargained with Daniel McFarlane of Digdeguash, for a lot off the Bar road owned by him, and for an adjoining lot owned by his brother. Negotiations for the purchase of other lands are in progress."
"We have learned from reliable sources that, considerations as to whether or not St. Andrews is to be a terminus of the Canada Pacific Railroad, was not a factor in the action taken by the American syndicate, or in any way led to their purchase of lands at St. Andrews. Their primary object was the establishment of a watering place, for which nature has so generously provided, in the surroundings of our town."
Pilot
May 3, 1888
Michael McMonagle ad for storing stoves so they don't rust.
St. Croix Courier
March 15/1888
There are many who believe that there is something more behind the boom at St. Andrews than the mere establishment of a summer resort. Our view is endorsed by a valued correspondent in the Shiretown , who writes as follows: "I was greatly pleased with what was termed the 'boom at St. Andrews' in your last issue, and fully agree with you that the magnitude which the purchases have assumed and the prospects for still further investments show that something more than 'securing sites for summer cottages is contemplated, and that there is a big scheme afloat to make the place an attractive summer resort, or, even better, a point of trans-shipment of the produce of the west, brought hither over the CPR. This to my mind is the real nature of the purchase, and I hold the opinion that there is a deep game being played to acquire the most eligible sites in St. Andrews for that purpose. I have also an idea that the true investors are not known, and there is a powerful company in possession of valuable information who are using agents to purchase. I heard from a resident of the old town that some of the best water privileges have been secured for the erection of deep-sea wharves, and other properties sold of which no mention is made. This indicates the correctness of your views, which are also entertained by others, and reminds me of the prophetic utterance of the Standard a few years ago, when its proprietor was advocating and showing the benefit which would result to the town as a seaport from the construction of what was then called the Megantic railway, now the International.
Pilot
March 15/1888
More details on land company. Application for incorporation of land and Chamcook Water company. and below.
Application for Legislation
Notice is hereby given that an application will be made to the Legislature of New Brunswick during its present session for the passage of an Act to incorporate THE CHAMCOOK WATER COMPANY, whose object will be to supply water from the Chamcook Lakes to parties resident in the parishes of St. Andrews and other parishes in the County of Charlotte, with a capital stock of $100,000 and power to issue $100,000 bonds on their property and other powers to enable them to carry out this object.
Dated 13th March 1888
Benjamin R. Stevenson, Sol. for Applicants
Editorial titled "The Boom":
"Mr. George Mowatt, in addition of selling the American Syndicate twenty-five acres, as previously reported in our columns, has given them the option on terms agreed upon, of the balance of the estate in which is included that lovely spot, Mowatt's Grove, reserving, however, the homestead and a few acres contiguous thereto.
Mr. Charles Eaton, Of Milltown, New Brunswick., purchased last week from Charles Gove, Esq., collector of customs, two town lots on the hill in the block northeast of the old R. C. Church. Mr. Eaton also bargained with the committee of St. Andrews R. C. Church, for the purchase of the parochial residence and three vacant lots adjoining.
Mr. Andrew Lamb has purchased a lot on Victoria Terrace from Robert Glenn.
The Chamcook Water Company will probably lay the water pipes alongside either the highway or the railroad track, whichever route is found most practicable, and will establish a pumping station for the purpose of forcing the water over the highest building in any part of the town. The placing of apparatus therein for the purpose of supplying the town with the electric light, is also one of the probabilities of the near future.
The American Syndicate, of which Mr. Robert S. Gardiner of Boston, is chairman, have organized a company to be called The Chamcook Water Company, and as will appear by notice in our advertising column, and application will be made, at the present session of the House of Assembly, for an Act of Incorporation. The residents of the town and parish of St. Andrews, have by a numerously signed petition, prayed for the passage of said act, and have asked for the insertion of the following provision therein, viz., That the land purchased by the said company or taken by them in pursuance of the powers such Act may contain, for the purposes of the said company, and the pipes, conduits and service connections used by the said company for conducting water, shall be forever exempt from taxation.
This action of the people is most commendable, not so much on account of the concession they propose to give, but rather as showing the sprit in which they are prepared to meet the gentlemen who have already invested considerable capital in the parish and are prepared to invest a much larger amount in the improvement of the property already acquired by them, and that in a direction that will add to the prosperity of St. Andrews as well as that of the residents in neighboring sections of our county. As an illustration of what the introduction of capital will do for places not having a tithe of the advantages possessed by St. Andrews, we mention Bar Harbor in the neighboring State of Maine, which a few years since was almost unheard of outside of the state."
The American Syndicate who recently created the land boom in St. Andrews, by purchasing a number of eligible building lots in the town and parish, have applied to the House of Assembly for an Act of Incorporation under the title of "The St. Andrews Land Co.," whose object will be to deal in and improve lands in the parish of St. Andrews and other parishes in the County of Charlotte. The capital stock of the company is fixed at $50,000. We understand it is the intention of the company to erect a number of cottages of the latest American designs, ranging in value from $1000 to $5000 or more in each, which they will either lease or sell as opportunity offers. The cottages will contain all the modern conveniences, including water from the St. Andrews Water Company's works.
Capt. Herbert gone to States to start up a joint stock company for purpose of enlarging and improving Argyll.
Pilot
March 22/1888
"A public meeting of the ratepayers of the town and parish of St. Andrews having been called for the purpose of considering and discussing the terms and provisions of certain bills now before the Legislature of this province, for Acts to incorporate "The St. Andrews Land Company" and "The Chamcook Water Company." About forty of the resident ratepayers of said town and parish met at the office of M. N. Cockburn on the afternoon of Tuesday the 20th inst.
Geo. F. Stickney, Esq., being called to the chair announced the object for which the meeting was called and requested a full and careful examination and discussion of the Bills. F. H. Grimmer, Esq., was requested to act as secretary.
The Land Company Bill was read and criticized by Henry Osburn, Esq., and was further criticized by Messrs. R. Glenn and M. N. Cockburn.
Moved by M. N. Cockburn, sec'd by R. Glenn, and unanimously resolved, That in the opinion of this meeting the clause of the first section on Land Co.'s Incorporation Bill, exempting their lands from taxation is decidedly objectionable and unfair to the ratepayers of this parish and ought in fairness to be struck out. Section two and three were approved of.
It was moved by J. S. Magee, sec'd by D. F. Campbell, and carried by a unanimous vote, That this meeting recommends as an addition to section 4 of the Bill the following: Provided that this section shall not be construed or interpreted as in any way conferring an exclusive right upon said company.
The Chamcook Water Company Bill was read in part by Mr. Osburn and in part by Mr. F. H. Grimmer. Section 1st was agreed to as it stood.
Moved by M. N. Cockburn, sec'd by G. Durell Grimmer and carried unanimously, That section two of the Bill should be amended also as to provide that the company shall for the purpose of obtaining water supply, have the right to select on either side of the front of the first Chamcook lake only, a parcel of land one quarter of a mile in extent, which they may purchase, acquire and hold, for the purposes mentioned in the Bill, and extending into the lake not more than one quarter of a mile, but not to interfere with the use of the lake for a winter road, nor with the natural outlet of said lake.
Sections 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 were approved.
It was moved by G. H. Grimmer, sec'd by R. Glenn, That in view of the fact that an exclusive right is to be conferred on the company by the Act, of supplying water under the terms thereof, the fees or charges to be paid for public water supply for fire and other purposes, should at all times be liable to be fixed and determined by the fire wards and the company, and in case of disagreement the same should be settled and adjusting claims for water or lands to be taken by the company. An amendment as follows was moved by Mr. J. H. Hanson, That the price charged the private consumers of water should also be regulated in arbitration. The amendment was negatived and the original motion carried.
Moved by R. Glenn, sec'd by . . . and unanimously carried, that the company should be by the Act required to commence operations inside two years from incorporation and should have pipes laid and water thereby brought to the Town of St. Andrews within four years from incorporation, otherwise said company to forfeit their charter.
Moved by M. N. Cockburn, sec'd by R. Glenn, and carried unanimously, that Henry Osburn, Esq., be authorized to represent this meeting before the Legislature, and that the minutes of this meeting be transcribed by the Secretary and placed in his hands."
The Boom
The movement in real estate inaugurated by the American syndicate is being followed up by other parties. Since our last issue the following properties have changed hands, viz., the Megantic Hotel and the house known as the Wilson house, both situated on Water Street bought by a syndicate of Calais gentlemen, a trio of whom Messrs. Kalish, Waite and Weston McAllister were in town Friday last. They also endeavoured to secure options of real estate in the suburbs, offering to put up forfeits. The owner of a farm at Bayside, Parish of St. Croix, was by them pressed to give them option of six acres, situated on a point running into the mouth of Oak Bay. The day of options has gone past; speculators must be prepared to close bargains instanter and put up the cash, as owners of land do not feel disposed to bind themselves to a sale at a fixed price on a future day, or to the chances of the optionists breaking out. Mr. Patrick B. Donahue has purchased from Mr. Robert Ross, the house situated on Douglas Street, opposite Quinn's blacksmith shop, known as the Halley House.
St. Croix Courier
March 29/1888
The 'boom' in St. Andrews real estate has not yet subsided. The first company of capitalists has been supplemented by others, who are anxious to secure 'lots' in the future winter port. Among these are Messrs. Kalish Waite and Weston McAllister, of Calais, who have secured the old Megantic Hotel property and a house on Water Street, together with the option of purchasing six acres situated on a point at the mouth of Oak Bay. Remarking on the 'boom' the Pilot says, "The day of options has gone past. Speculators must be prepared to close bargains instanter and put up the cash, as owners of land do not feel disposed to bind themselves to a sale at a fixed price on a future day, or to a chance of the optionists breaking out.
Pilot
March 29/1888
Chamcook Water Co. Bill passed in House of Assembly.
Pilot
April 12/1888
The bill authorizing the Municipality of St. Andrews Charlotte to sell part of the eastern commons to the St. Andrews Land Co passed last week by the legislature, has received the assent of his Honor the Lieut.-Governor.
Letter to editor envisions a golden age for St. Andrews:
"The boom has aroused old St. Andrews into activity; her long slumber in sackcloth and ashes has gone, it is to be hoped, forever. Her beautiful land-locked bay, lakes and streams, her eminences and commanding views of the grandest scenery, her salubrious atmosphere and natural advantages, have opened the eyes of right-thinking men to the fact, that they have also been slumbering amongst old ruins; unconscious of their being within reach of the most beautiful, healthful panorama imaginable, whose splendid verdure will gladden the eye, invigorate the sick, and give tranquility to the troubled mind, thereby making peaceful sleep a welcome restorative, within reach of all."—Experience
The Boom
Mr. Thomas Truesdell has effected the sale, to Calais parties, of the two fields owned by him, known as the Carney and Kennedy lots. The price is largely in advance of offers made by the agent of the American syndicate. C. M. Gove, Esq., collector of customs, recently purchased from the Treadwell heirs and from Mr. T. R. Wren, the adjoining half lots with buildings thereon, situated on Water Street, immediately below the residence of Mrs. Henry O'Neill. Mr. Hugh O'Neill will shortly commence the erection of a building on the Market Square lots, leased by him last April from the town.
It is currently reported that Mr. Jas. Scallen proposed to erect for himself a dwelling house on the lot on King St. adjoining the St. Andrews R. C. Church. Mr. G. Durell Grimmer has commenced work on the proposed alterations in the store occupied by him which when completed will give a store much better adapted for his fast-increasing business.
Indian Point. —
As soon as the committee having the matter in charge shall have made conveyance of the lands at Indian Point to the Land Company in compliance with the terms of the Act of Assembly passed for that purpose, the Company will at once commence the work of draining, grading, etc., which will be done under the supervision of an expert in laying out park properties.
The hydraulic engineer of the Chamcook Water Co. will probably arrive in St. Andrews from Boston before this announcement reaches our readers. The object of his coming, is to make surveys to decide upon the most convenient and economic route to be followed in laying the water pipes, to ascertain the greatest probable heights of land necessary to cover, to decide what power to be employed in pumping or forcing the water to secure the proper head, and the size of pipe best adapted to meet the probable requirements of the town of St. Andrews during the next twenty years. The survey completed and report made to the company by the engineer, contracts for the work will be given out and the pipes ordered forthwith. We are authorized to state that the company are anxious that all the available labour obtainable in or about St. Andrews shall be employed.
Even the ladies are catching the boom.—
Mrs. T. Smith of St. Stephen has effected the purchase of four town lots as follows: one each from M. N. Cockburn, Mr. J. Wilson and Thomas Hipwell, situated on the hill, and one from R. Welch, immediately outside the town limits near the head of Water St. George R. Gardiner, counsel-at-law, a member of the Calais, Maine syndicate operating in real estate in St. Andrews, Mr. Alfred Towers, contractor, and Mr. George Greenlaw, master mechanic, were in town Tuesday looking over the Megantic house. They have decided to make radical improvements on the building, will raise it two feet, add an ell, shingle the roof, paint, and will thoroughly overhaul the interior.
Pilot
April 12/1888
Gardiner's speech in Stevenson Hall. B. R. Stevenson the Company's Counsel. 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 George 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 and 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 St. Andrews, the road was in bad condition, and 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 gave 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 St. Andrews; 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 St. Andrews, 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 racecourse 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 must 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."
Pilot
April 19/1888
Engineer for Chamcook water line arrives. Town expects water within the present year. and below.
"The people of St. Andrews may reasonably hope to be supplied with the water from the lake sometime during the present year. Mr. Forbes found that the water in Chamcook Lake is about 95 feet above high water. The highest point in town is on Prince of Wales Street, west of Fort Tipperary, 125 feet above high water. Mr. Forbes thinks that the water in the Lake is exceptionally pure. At this season of the year, the water in many lakes from which towns and cities draw their supply is of a deep amber colour, while that in Chamcook Lake is as white and clear as spring water and of unusually fine flavour. It can readily be seen that some method of forcing the water through the pipes must be adopted which is a matter for the consideration of the company. We heartily congratulate our fellow townsmen upon the prospect of having in the near future brought to their doors a supply of pure water, such as very few towns are possessed of."
Sir Frederick Arthur Stanley, 1st Baron Stanley of Preston, 16th Earl of Derby
Governor General: 1888 - 1893 Appointed: May 1, 1888 Sworn In: June 11, 1888 Born: January 15, 1841, London, England Died: June 14, 1908
Pilot
May 3/1888
The incorporators of the St. Andrews Land and Chamcook Water Co. will meet at the office of Hon. B. R. Stevenson, in this town, on Monday next, the 7th inst., for the purpose of organization, the law requiring that such action shall be taken in this province. It is probable that a number of the gentlemen interested in the companies referred to, will be in attendance, and as it will be the first visit made by some of them to our town, it is probable that they will embrace the opportunity to look over the place. Although they will not be like the men sent out to search the land of Canaan, able to bear back with them branches with clusters of grapes, pomegranates and figs., they can take with the memory of the delightful scenery and healthful atmosphere that so abounds in the vicinity of St. Andrews.
Pilot
May 10/1888
The St. Andrews Land Co., and Chamcook Water Co. met at the office of Hon. B. R. Stevenson, last Monday afternoon, and perfected their organization. the following officers were elected for each company: Sir S. L. Tilley, president; Robert S. Gardiner, vice-president, Eugene F. Fay, secretary treasurer and the above with the following named gentlemen, directors: Abraham Avery, Daniel B. Claflin, Roscoe A. Cobb, Frank W. Cram, Charles V. Lord, C. F. Bragg, D. J. Flanders, J. Emery Hoar, A. D.S. Bell, George L. Connor, J. B. Coyle, F. E. Boothby, of this number Messrs. Tilley, Gardiner, Fay, Avery, Claflin, Cobb, Cram, Flanders and Boothby were present as was also Judge Stevenson , the legal adviser of the company. The party were also accompanied by Mr. Frank H. Taylor, a distinguished artist and writer who since his stay in town has been busily engaged in preparing photographs and sketches for future use in the interest of the town and company. The party during their stay made their home in the Pullman Buffalo Car Nyanqa, Mr. Cram also having his private car. After dinner the party left Monday evening by special train for Boston.
St. Croix Courier
May 17/1888
The Electric Light Company have taken the initiatory steps to introduce the light in St. Stephen and Calais. Supports for the wires have been placed on the toll bridge and the poles are already on hand. It is thought the system will be in operation early in September.
Henry Osburn and family intend going to England in July to remain, perhaps, permanently, though the Land Company will secure Mr. Osborn's services as manager.
Angus Kennedy purposes making an extension to his already large, commodious and popular hotel.
Pilot
May 17/1888
Village Improvements
The real estate movements that have been the leading topic of conversation in town during the past few months, and the efforts which the American syndicate are to make for the development of St. Andrews as a summer watering place, must in time necessarily change the general character of our town and bring as temporary residents a class of people accustomed to city ways and city improvements. And such improvements having been made, are going in the end to add to the beauty of our town and to the comfort of our present citizens even more fully than to the enjoyment and comfort of the new citizens.
But some responsibility and duty rests upon us as a people, to the end that these improvements may come rapidly and that "at first sight" the new citizens may be invited to settle here by the cheerfulness of tour town and by the hospitable character of our people and of their surroundings.
Contented with our surroundings, we in the past may have been led to overlook all of the advantages of "seeing ourselves as others see us." While as a people we have not the means to indulge in large an luxurious houses, each and all of us have it in our power to add "something" to the beauty and neatness of our home buildings, lots, fences, etc., so that in the aggregate the visitor coming among us for the first time shall be led to exclaim "what a pretty town, and how neat and tasty the houses, and yards and fences look, why, I should like to spend the summer here."
The repairing of a picket fence here, a coat of whitewash there, a little flower bed or a shade tree carefully attended to, when multiplied by the number of houses and lots in our town that from one cause or another are at present needing a little "touching up" is going in many cases to decide a visitor to stop among "us" or lead him to pack his luggage after a day's stay and to seek another of the many places on the coast that are opening their arms to receive him. An hour's work in the early morning or after tea at night, in improving the looks of the home, often makes the humblest cottage a palace.
Surveying the Land
The services of Mr. D. F. Maxwell, C. E., of St. Stephen, has been secured by the St. Andrews Land Co. He is now and has been for some days past been engaged in surveying the company's tract of land at Indian Point, and is to make a plan of the same, which, we understand, is to be submitted to a specialist in laying out parks, who will from them furnish drawings for the 10 acre park, which the company are, by agreement with the town, required to lay out and maintain. We think the St. Andrews Land Co. very fortunate in having secured the service of such a reliable and competent gentleman and Mr. Maxwell admittedly is.
Pilot
May 24/1888
Advantages of good water supply. and below.
"All time saved from hard labor is a gain. The convenience in cities and towns is a great advantage. In estimating the returns to be secured from a water supply for a place, consideration must be had for items not appearing on the company's books, but which have a value inestimable in dollars. These are: First, Promotion of health. Water from a supply system averages much purer than from wells. It is stated that typhoid fever has practically become a country disease. In certain New England counties, the lowest average mortality is in districts where there are many cities and towns, most of which have water supplies and sewerage systems. The highest mortality is in sparsely settled towns having no public works of this nature. Without a water supply we can scarcely have any sewerage system. The sprinkling of streets and decrease of repairs on gravel and macadamized roads are worthy items.
Second:—By saving property. A supply of water for fire purposes can best be provided in connection with the domestic supply, and the power to prevent a widespread conflagration lies usually in the proper arrangement of the water supply system, where the hydrants should not be located too near large wooden buildings.
Third—By reducing insurance. The insurance companies of New England are always ready to recognize the introduction of water by a very substantial reduction of their rates, generally from twenty to fifty per cent.
Fourth—By encouraging manufactures. Many mills have private fire appliances, but all need external protection, and a reliable water supply and a consideration of its provisions and the consequent insurance rates often determines the location of great manufactories.
President Fanning stated that he had found that for five years after the water supply was introduced in a certain city, the saving in insurance over the rates that prevailed before had been greater than the cost of the supply during that period."—F. L. Fuller in Scientific American
Pilot
May 31/1888
The Hotel Gazette—first mention of hay fever and of St. Andrews as tourist destination. "Perfect roads 65 feet wide.
"The diversified summer attractions of the New Brunswick have of late years led many seekers after holiday comfort and enjoyment into that picturesque region. Such hotels as have been built and operated with a view to American and Canadian patronage of the better sort in the warm months, have met with flattering success. A point highly favorable for the establishment of another summer hotel and as yet unoccupied by any house or adequate accommodations is St. Andrews, a quaint old town just over the border, and only separated from the State of Maine by the St. Croix River. The village is ranged along a fine peninsula near the head of Passamaquoddy Bay, within sight of Eastport and Campobello.
It is a terminus of the Southern Division of the New Brunswick Railway, and a daily landing place of steamers from Eastport or Calais. Its beautiful streets, none of which are less than 65 feet wide, are the delight of summer visitors, while its 1,600 inhabitants, with their stores, churches and livery stables, afford tourists a hearty welcome, and conveniences for necessity or pleasure equal to the large cities.
A coterie of business men, chiefly residents of Boston, familiar with the peculiar charms of this place and its vicinity, are now investing a large amount of money here in the purchase and development of sightly out-looks in and near the village, into villa sites and parks, and in the introduction of a good system of water works by piping from the Chamcook Lakes in the nearby highlands.
Assurances are given that the heartiest cooperation will be extended in the erection of a large modern house of approved design, and to any first-class landlord in whose charge it may be placed.
The volume of traffic to this point in recent seasons, the favourable attitude of the railroad corporations whose lines penetrate this region, and its accessibility from New York Boston, Montreal, Ottawa and Quebec, make its future as a resort an assured success. Before the opening of another season the Canadian Pacific Railway will have placed the leading Canadian cities in direct communication with this point by through train.
The bold scenery, diversified coastline and perfects roads of the St. Andrews peninsula, the placid land-locked water of Passamaquoddy Bay, and its freedom from fogs and mosquitoes, together with a wonderfully curative effect in cases of hay fever, give St. Andrews its eminence over either of the much-vaunted resorts located upon the more immediate coast. Its southern exposure ensures a prolonged season, which is further enhanced by the protection of Chamcook Mountain immediately north of the village.
General Greely, chief of the Weather Bureau, U. S. Signal Service, in a recent magazine article, awards this immediate vicinity the distinction of having the finest and most equable climate upon the entire Atlantic slope.
A variety of resorts are readily accessible from St. Andrews, including Nova Scotia and the storied Evangeline region, and the salmon rivers of New Brunswick.
The large farming area around St. Andrews, and good local markets, give assurance of abundant table supplies at low prices. The fish and lobsters of the Passamaquoddy are more than famous. The woodland glades and mountain slopes within a few miles of the town are alive, in the shooting season, with quail and partridge as yet quite unfamiliar with the crack of the sportsman's gun, while the clear streams and lakes, the latter plentifully stocked with land-locked salmon, offer a pleasant alternative from the water fishing at all times.
Parties desiring specific information can address Robert S. Gardiner, 67 Federal Street, Boston."
Pilot
May 31/1888
From "1898":
The business is a booming,
The tourists all alive,
And money is as plenty
As honey in a hive.
The farmers they are jolly
With money to spend
Wondering in their folly
When this boom will end.
—Susan
These poems are a response to the two "boom that never came poems" that appeared in the Pilot, May 24, 1888, the ones quoted by Mowatt in her book.
"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 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's grown,
How Campobello was no good,
And Bar Harbor'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
St. Andrews, New Brunswick
A Down East Enterprise
Hotel Gazette
excerpt: "The volume of travel to this point in recent seasons, the favorable attitude of the railroad corporations whose lines penetrate this region, and its accessibility from New York, Boston, Montreal, Ottawa and Quebec, make its future as a resort an assured success. Before the opening of another season the CPR will have placed the leading Canadian cities in direct communication with this point by through train. . . . The large farming area around St. Andrews, and good local markets, give assurance of abundant table supplies at low prices. The fish and lobsters of the Passamaquoddy are more than famous. The woodland glades and mountain slopes within a few miles of the town are alive, in the shooting season, with quail and partridge as yet quite unfamiliar with the crack of the sportsman's gun, while the clear stream sand lakes, the later plentifully stocked with land-locked salmon, offer a pleasant alternative from tide water fishing at all times.
Pilot
June 7/1888
St. Croix Gas and Electric Light Company have taken steps to introduce the light into Calais and St. Stephen.
Mr. W. E. Mallory has a crew of mechanics at work making alterations and improvements in his dwelling house, at which they are making good progress.
Rev. Father O'Flaherty, P.P., the highly esteemed pastor of St. Andrews Church, will at an early day commence the building of the new parochial residence, the plans for which he is daily expecting. Whatever Father O'Flaherty sets out to do he does with all his might, as evidence by his work in pushing to completion the new church.
Park Tilley
Mr. E. A. Hammatt, landscape Gardiner, and an expert in laying gout parks, arrived here from Boston Tuesday lat, sent by the St. Andrews Land Company (American syndicate) to lay out the proposed park at Indian Point, which as in honor of the highly esteemed and popular Lieut. Governor of New Brunswick been named Park Tilley.
Pilot
June 14/1888
A Saint John editorial parrots the rhetoric and statistics of the Hotel Gazette article, including the 65-foot-wide streets, which had never been mentioned before, or perhaps even noticed as remarkable by the inhabitants; as well as the freedom from fog, mosquitoes and hay fever. This article and its second part in June 21 copied from Saint John Daily Sun, 9 and 12 of June. Written by Mr. Payne, member of editorial staff.
St. Andrews
The Massachusetts Invaders of 1704 and 1888
Indian Point peacefully ceded to the latter-day visitors
Some facts about the Real Estate Boom
At the Best Watering Place on the North Atlantic Coast
Among the most happy and contented people within the confines of this wide Dominion are the residents of St. Andrews. When others grumbled over dull seasons and hard times, the average St. Andrews man pursued the even tenor of his way, taking all things for the best, confident that the day would come when wealth and plenty would take up their permanent abode in the town. And visitors, thanks to the quiet beauty and glorious climate of the peninsula which stretches out towards Passamaquoddy bay, having the St. Croix River on one side and Chamcook bay on the other, soon catch the infection, and believe as fully as the natives that St. Andrews has a glorious future before it. The town is clean, healthy, regularly laid out with handsome streets, none less than 65 feet wide, and some really pretty buildings. Its lower part is situated on the level adjoining the water, but its cross streets and higher parts ascend a gently sloping red sandstone hill, the summit of which commands an extensive view of the river and bay, and of the shores of the State of Maine beyond. This promontory of St. Andrews consists of red sandstone and marls, traversed by trap-dykes, proceeding most probably from Chamcook Mountain as their centre. The bold scenery, diversified coastline and perfect roads of the peninsula, the placid, land-locked waters of Passamaquoddy bay, its freedom from fogs, . . . the utter absence of mosquitoes, together with a wonderfully curative effect in cases of hay fever, gives St. Andrews pre-eminence over the much-vaunted summer resorts along the adjoining coast of Maine. . . . The invasion of 1888
Another body of invaders from Massachusetts holds virtual possession of St. Andrews today. Indian Point was placed in their hands by the joyous inhabitants, as a thank offering, as soon as they had given tangible evidence that theirs was the pioneer tread of thousands yet to come. The residents of St. Andrews love the quiet beauty of their town, but they do not despise American gold, and much property has changed hands of late at figures which would have been deemed marvelous a few short years go. (to be continued)
St. Croix Courier
June 21/1888
A Campobello hotel will be opened about July 1st. The company are bound to make the island a favourite watering place, and with this object in view are constructing roads and wharves, regardless of expense. They are wealthy and can offer superior inducements to tourists. They employ a large number of laborers and are in every way benefiting the people of the island. It can truly be said that the affairs of the Campobello company are 'booming.' Through judicious advertising, our part of the Dominion is becoming well and favorably known. Success to the enterprising company.