This Week in Saint John History
August 31 – September 6, 2026
August 31
Saint John’s Loyalist beginnings
Saint John’s modern history is closely tied to the arrival of approximately 14,000 Loyalists following the American Revolution. The community at the mouth of the Saint John River was incorporated by Royal Charter in 1785, making Saint John the first incorporated city in what became Canada.
September 1
A city shaped by the harbour
By the 19th century, Saint John had developed into a major industrial and shipbuilding centre. Its port, shipyards and waterfront became central to the city’s economy and identity.
September 2
Remembering Saint John’s Irish heritage 🇮🇪
The great Irish immigration of the 1840s had a profound effect on Saint John. The city received a huge influx of Irish immigrants fleeing the famine, helping establish its reputation as “Canada’s most Irish city.”
September 3
St. Joseph’s Church milestone — 1954 ⛪
A new St. Joseph’s Church in Saint John held its first Mass on September 3, 1954. The new church was built after the city acquired the original church property as part of the development of the Saint John airport area.
September 4
An important Wolastoqiyik/Maliseet connection — 1749
On September 4, 1749, Maliseet Chiefs and Captains on the Wolastoq (Saint John River) ratified the renewal of the Boston Treaty of Peace and Friendship, reaffirming Maliseet hunting and fishing rights.
September 5
Canada’s first police union — Saint John, 1918 👮
One of the most notable Saint John events of the week occurred on September 5, 1918, when the first police union in Canada was organized in Saint John. The Saint John Federal Police Protective Association was subsequently chartered on September 10.
September 6
New Brunswick’s first postage stamps — 1851 ✉️
On September 6, 1851, New Brunswick’s first postage stamps went on sale at post offices across the province. The first issue included three-pence, six-pence and one-shilling denominations.
Saint John History Fact of the Week
Did you know? Saint John was officially incorporated in 1785, making it Canada’s first incorporated city. That Loyalist-era beginning helped establish the Port City as one of the country’s oldest urban communities.