Tiny village of Gagetown big on heritage
MARITIMES: New Brunswick community a consistent draw for writers, painters, potters and bird lovers
GAGETOWN, N.B. — The village of Gagetown, in southern New Brunswick, is often described as a tranquil haven for those escaping the rush of city life.
The tiny community, just 35 minutes east of the provincial capital of Fredericton, is steeped in history and a favourite place for visitors who love wildlife, boating, and arts and crafts.
Flo Greig arrived 39 years ago to set up her pottery studio and shop, and now says she can’t imagine living anywhere else.
“I think the beauty and tranquillity of it and the natural ambience that we have here, nestled along the St. John River, and the historical aspect of it has such a draw and a pull. It lends a depth to the place,” she said.
Loyalists arrived in the area around 1784, and soon Gagetown was a bustling farming community and an important stop for steamboats plying the St. John River.
“Gagetown is all about heritage,” said Susan Shalala, with Queen’s County Heritage. “The heritage of the Loyalists, their family names and the artifacts that still remain and the museums that are built around them are still very rich here.”
The village has three museums, including Tilley House, which is the birthplace of Sir Samuel Leonard Tilley, a Father of Confederation. Within just a few blocks of Tilley House, you’ll find the old brick jail, a 135-year-old Anglican Church, and the Queen’s County Courthouse, which was built in 1836. There’s also the Loomcrofters’ weaving studio, a busy marina, park, restaurants and pubs, a weekend farmers market and numerous places to purchase the products of talented artisans.
“It’s all within walking distance. You can explore the village on foot,” said Kathleen Fettah, who along with her husband Frederic operates the Mission House Bed and Breakfast.
She said the village is a popular destination for motorcyclists who enjoy the rural roads and the ability to cross the river on the nearby car ferry.
Also popular is the annual Christmas in the Village Studio Tour. It’s a chance to stroll the village and purchase handmade Christmas gifts from the various artisans in Gagetown.
“We are not a sleepy little village,” Fettah said. “There is always something happening here.”