This Week in Saint John History
September 14–21, 2026
Saint John has always been a city connected to the harbour, the river and the wider world. This week in history brings us back to the city’s role in Confederation, early newspapers, street lighting and the political life of New Brunswick.
Here are some of the important events connected to Saint John and the surrounding region from September 14 to September 21.
September 14, 1864 — Confederation Comes to Saint John
In September 1864, the discussions that would eventually lead to Canadian Confederation were gathering momentum.
On September 14, 1864, delegates from the Canadas and New Brunswick who had attended the Charlottetown Conference arrived in Saint John from Halifax.
A banquet was held at Stubb’s Hotel, where the Canadian delegates were toasted with the singing of For They Are Jolly Good Fellows.
The visit was part of the remarkable series of meetings that eventually led to the Quebec Conference of 1864 and, ultimately, Confederation in 1867.
Saint John’s position as a major port made it an important stopping point for political leaders travelling between the Maritime colonies and the Canadas.
September 15, 1849 — The Gold Rush and Saint John’s Harbour
On September 15, 1849, the ship Teal left Saint John Harbour bound for California and the great Gold Rush.
The departure was another reminder that Saint John was not simply a local port. During the 19th century, ships leaving the harbour connected the city with destinations throughout North America and around the world.
Saint John’s economy and identity were closely tied to shipping, shipbuilding, trade and immigration.
The city’s official history notes that Saint John became a major industrial centre during the 19th century, largely because of its strong shipbuilding and harbour connections.
September 16, 1839 — A Penny Newspaper Arrives
On September 16, 1839, George Fenety launched The Commercial News and General Advertiser in Saint John.
The newspaper was sold for a penny and was later known as the Morning News.
This was an important development in local communications. Newspapers gave Saint John residents a regular source of information about politics, business, shipping, crime, community events and happenings beyond the city.
The arrival of inexpensive newspapers also helped make news available to a much broader audience.
For a city whose fortunes depended heavily on ships and commerce, timely information was particularly valuable.
September 18, 1845 — Saint John Gets Gas Lighting
Imagine walking through Saint John at night before modern street lighting.
On September 18, 1845, gas lighting was introduced on the city’s streets.
It was a major change for Saint John. Street lighting improved visibility after dark and was another sign that the growing city was entering a more modern industrial age.
The City of Saint John’s historical milestones also records 1845 as the year Saint John’s first street lights were lit.
Today, electric lights, illuminated buildings and traffic signals are such a normal part of city life that it is easy to forget how revolutionary public street lighting once was.
September 21, 1893 — A Saint John Man Becomes Lieutenant-Governor
On September 21, 1893, Saint John resident John Boyd was appointed Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick.
Boyd’s appointment reflected the important role Saint John played in the political, commercial and civic life of the province.
The city’s influence extended well beyond its harbour and business community. Saint John residents have played significant roles in provincial and national politics throughout New Brunswick’s history.
A City Built on Connections
The events of this week tell a larger story about Saint John.
In 1864, political delegates passed through the city as the idea of Confederation was taking shape.
In 1849, a ship left the harbour for California and the Gold Rush.
In 1839, a local newspaper helped connect citizens with events in Saint John and beyond.
In 1845, new technology transformed the city’s streets after dark.
And in 1893, a Saint Johner was appointed to one of New Brunswick’s highest offices.
These stories are reminders that Saint John has always been more than a city beside the water. It has been a port of departure, a centre of business, a source of news, a political centre and a gateway to the world.
The City of Saint John describes the community as the “Port City”, and its history shows how generations of immigrants, merchants, shipbuilders, workers and families helped shape the community.
Did You Know?
Saint John was incorporated by Royal Charter in 1785, making it Canada’s first incorporated city. The city was formed through the amalgamation of Parrtown and Carleton.
That long history means that almost every street, harbourfront building and neighbourhood in Saint John has a story behind it.
What Saint John history do you remember from your childhood or from stories told by your family?
Share your memories — they are part of Saint John’s history too.