Charlottetown with its Victorian architecture of clapboard houses and churches, pink-bricked buildings and tree-lined streets and squares remains much as it was during its golden era, the 1800s – lovely. This seaside colonial town is where Canada was born, at the Charlottetown Conference at Province House; discussions were held in 1864 that led to the birth of the Dominion of Canada. Today, Charlottetown is not only the provincial capital but also the center of Prince Edward Island’s commerce and tourism. Known as the “cradle of Confederation”, the city lies on an arm of Hillsborough Bay off the Northumberland Strait and about 55 kilometers (35 miles) from Wood Islands.[1]
Attractions
The Confederation Centre of the Arts on Queen Street between Grafton and Richmond Streets is considered the heart and soul of Charlottetown. It was constructed in 1964 to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the historic conference where the articles of Confederation were signed. The complex covers two blocks and contains a museum, memorial hall, art gallery, theater, library, and restaurant. In the summer, it hosts the three-month long Charlottetown Festival, famous for its popular musical based on Anne of Green Gables, the classic children’s book. Across from the complex is the Province House on Richmond Street, a three-story sandstone edifice built in 1843 and styled in the neo-Georgian mold. This is where the delegates met in 1864 and drew up the articles of confederation. The second floor room was where the meetings took place and is today called the Confederation Chamber. It is set up exactly as it was back in 1864. The Province House is also where the provincial Legislative Assembly meets.[2]
St. Dunstan’s Basilica on Richmond Street is one of the country’s largest churches. Located south of Province House, its twin Gothic spires makes it easily recognizable. The interior is lavished with exceptionally fine Italian carvings. On Church Street, you’ll find St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, which is the oldest Protestant church on Prince Edward Island. Built in 1747, its interior has several murals painted by the legendary Robert Harris.[3]
Golfers should check out the semi-private Belvedere Golf and Winter Club. It is a lovely golf course located a few minutes’ drive from downtown along Riverside Drive. Harness racing is held at the Charlottetown Driving Park along Kensington Road about three evenings a week.[4]
Shoppers will find all sorts of treasures on Prince Edward Island, including traditional crafts such as quilts, pottery, leather, woodwork, and weavings.[5]
History
Charlottetown is situated across from the harbor where the first European settlement was founded on Prince Edward Island in 1720. Port-La-Joye was the name of the settlement, set up by 300 French colonists. It was captured by the British in 1758 and rebuilt and renamed as Fort Amherst. Six years later, Charlottetown was founded across the harbor. Following the American Revolution, Charlottetown saw an influx of Loyalists along with successive waves of Irish and Scottish Highlands immigrants. Still, much like the pace of life observed today, the town grew only at a measured pace during the 19th century. In 1864, however, Charlottetown became the birthplace of Canada when British and North American colonial delegates met at Province House and signed the articles of Confederation, creating the Dominion of Canada. Today, the town is a delightful place to visit. Its colonial architecture is still impeccably preserved.[6]
How to Get There
Air Canada has daily flights to Charlottetown from major cities across the country, including Halifax, Toronto, and Montreal. The discount airline, WestJet, also runs seasonal flights from Toronto and Montreal. From the U.S., Northwest Airlines has a route connecting Charlottetown with Detroit. Delta Airlines has a route linking Charlottetown with Boston.[7]
By car, the best way to reach Charlottetown is via the Trans-Canada Highway. At the Confederation Bridge crossing, the Trans-Canada Highway merges with Highway 16. Upon entering the Prince Edward Island, Trans-Canada Highway links up with Highway 2, which runs east-west through the island.[8]
References:
Carroll, Donald. Insider’s Guide Canada. Edison: Hunter Publishing, Inc, 1996. ISBN: 1556507100.
[1] Carroll, 301
[2] Id. at 302
[3] Id.
[4] Id.
[5] Id.
[6] Id. at 301
[7] Id. at 306
[8] Id.
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