May 4 — On This Day in Saint John History

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⚓ 1783 — Loyalist Arrivals Continue

• By May 4, 1783, ships carrying United Empire Loyalists were arriving steadily.
• Temporary camps expanded along the shoreline as thousands adjusted to their new lives.
• These early May days shaped the city’s identity as a Loyalist stronghold.

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 1800s — Harbour Fully Reopens

• Around this date each year, the harbour was typically fully ice-free.
• Shipping schedules normalized, and outbound cargo—especially timber—picked up sharply.
• Saint John entered its busiest commercial season.

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 1870s–1880s — Post-Fire Construction season

• Following the Great Fire of Saint John, early May days like this were critical for rebuilding progress.
• Brick and stone structures rose quickly during this period, forming today’s historic Uptown core.

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 1910s–1940s — Strategic Port Activity

• In wartime eras, early May saw increasing ship movement through the harbour.
• Convoys and supply vessels staged here, reinforcing Saint John’s importance to Atlantic operations.

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 Present Day — Spring Shift

• The Reversing Falls Rapids are especially active with spring runoff around this time.
• The city transitions fully into spring mode—markets, trails, and waterfront activity all return.