Edmonton, New Brunswick: Location And History

Edmonton, New Brunswick, Canada, is a city in Madawaska County, established in 1850. It is located at the confluence of the Madawaska and Saint John Rivers in the northwestern part of the province. The city is surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains and borders Quebec and Maine, USA. Edmonton is known for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and friendly charm, offering a range of outdoor activities such as mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding. The city has a population of over 16,000 people and is predominantly francophone, with a rich history that includes the presence of the Maliseet (Wolastoqiyik) Nation during the early colonial period.

Outdoor activities in Edmundston

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Edmundston, New Brunswick, for all types of travellers. Here are some ideas to get you started:

New Brunswick Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden is a garden lover's paradise, with a variety of themes, art installations, classes, a butterfly house, and an excellent café. It's the perfect place to spend a beautiful day immersed in nature.

De La Republique Provincial Park

This provincial park offers a range of outdoor activities, including camping, swimming, tennis, horseshoe pits, boating, hiking, and cycling. It's also conveniently located next to the New Brunswick Botanical Gardens and the Antique Automobile Museum.

Sentier Madawaska Trails

These trails offer a network of over 45km of mountain biking paths with variable lengths and slopes to suit different skill levels. The trails are well-maintained and provide a fun workout for both adults and children.

Sentier du Prospecteur

The Sentier du Prospecteur is a scenic trail that's perfect for a leisurely walk or a more vigorous hike. It offers colourful foliage in the fall and a free, spacious parking lot.

Mont Farlagne

Mont Farlagne is a downhill ski resort offering a range of winter activities, including skiing, tubing, fat biking, snowshoeing, and even climbing an ice wall. It's a great destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Trans Canada Trail

The Trans Canada Trail in Edmundston is accessible to everyone and offers a pleasant stroll along the river. It's an easy way to explore the northernmost part of the Great Trail in New Brunswick.

Petit Temis Interprovincial Linear Park

This 134km trail, also known as the Trans-Canada Trail, offers a cycling challenge as it climbs from sea level to 1000m. It provides gorgeous scenery and resources for cyclists along the way.

Golf, Biking, Hiking, and More

Edmundston also offers a variety of other outdoor activities, such as golf at the Club de Golf Fraser Edmundston, biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. There's something for everyone, regardless of your interests or fitness level.

History of Edmundston

The city of Edmundston, New Brunswick, was established in 1850. It was initially called Petit-Sault, meaning "Little Falls", in reference to the waterfalls where the Madawaska River merges into the Saint John River. The settlement was renamed in 1851 (or 1848) after Sir Edmund Walker Head, the Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick from 1848 to 1854 and Governor-General of Canada from 1854 to 1861.

During the early colonial period, the area was a camping and meeting place for the Maliseet (Wolastoqiyik) Nation during seasonal migrations. From the mid-to-late 18th century, one of the largest Maliseet villages was established at Madawaska and became a refuge site for other Wabanaki peoples. The village was originally located near the falls at the confluence of the two rivers. Today, the City of Edmundston surrounds a federal Indian Reserve (St. Basile 10/Madawaska Maliseet First Nation).

In the 19th century, Edmundston's community was supplemented by small numbers of English-speaking immigrants and a protracted immigration of French-speaking settlers from Quebec. The first colonists arrived in 1790, with Acadians relocating from St Anne's Point (Fredericton) at the time of the Loyalist influx. The area was also home to the "Republic of Madawaska", a short-lived independent state declared by American-born industrialist John Baker following the Aroostook War of 1839, a skirmish over boundary lines between the USA and British North America.

In 1917, the Fraser company (now Twin Rivers) built a pulp mill in Edmundston, followed by a paper mill in 1925 in the sister city of Madawaska, Maine. The logging industry played a major role in the economic development of the city. Edmundston was incorporated as a city in 1952 and, as of 2021, had a population of 16,437. The city is 95% francophone and is considered the centre of francophone awareness.

Culture in Edmundston

Edmundston, a city in Madawaska County, New Brunswick, Canada, is a hub for arts, culture, and heritage. The city is steeped in history and cultural diversity, offering a wide range of artistic and cultural activities for visitors and locals to enjoy.

The city was first established as a small logging settlement in 1850 and was originally named Petit-Sault (Little Falls), referring to the waterfalls where the Madawaska River meets the Saint John River. In 1851, it was renamed Edmundston after Sir Edmund Walker Head, the Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick at the time. The logging industry played a significant role in the city's economic development, and it continues to be one of the major industries in the area.

Edmundston is surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains and is situated at the confluence of the Saint John and Madawaska Rivers. This natural setting provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The city is also home to several cultural facilities, including the Madawaska Historic Museum, the Antique Automobile Museum, and the New Brunswick Botanical Garden.

The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, with music, dance, painting, and writing being an everyday part of life. "Musical Wednesdays" attract crowds throughout the summer, and the lobby of City Hall often transforms into an art gallery, showcasing local artists. The Arts Centre is a hub for creativity, offering various workshops in painting, modelling, guitar, and drawing. The downtown area also features historical information posts that provide insights into the foundation and evolution of the city.

Edmundston is also home to a thriving festival scene, with events such as the Edmundston Jazz and Blues Festival, the Foire Brayonne, and the Baker Lake Tourism Festival. These festivals celebrate the region's culture, music, and local cuisine, such as the traditional ploye, a buckwheat pancake. The city's culinary scene offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets.

The city has a strong French Brayon cultural influence, with 95% of its residents being francophone. The residents speak with a distinctive local accent, known as "l'accent brayon". Christianity is the dominant religion, with most residents being Roman Catholics. The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, built in 1924, is an example of the synthesis of Roman and Gothic architectural styles.

With its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultural offerings, Edmundston provides a unique and captivating experience for all who visit.

Travel to Edmundston

Edmundston is a city in Madawaska County, New Brunswick, Canada. It was established in 1850 and, as of 2021, has a population of 16,437. The city is located at the confluence of the Madawaska and Saint John Rivers in the northwestern part of the province.

When travelling to Edmundston, there are several transportation options available. The city is served by New Brunswick Route 2, a four-lane all-weather divided highway. U.S. Route 1 is also accessible on the other side of the Saint John River. For air travel, there is a municipal airport located 17 kilometres north of Edmundston that serves general aviation traffic.

Edmundston has a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy, including natural, cultural, and historical sites. The city is surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains and offers outdoor activities such as mountain biking, skiing, and hiking. The Sentier Madawaska Trails provide an extensive network of trails for outdoor enthusiasts. République Provincial Park, a 44-hectare recreational park, offers campsites near the river, and the New Brunswick Botanical Garden showcases a diverse array of plants and flowers.

For those interested in history and culture, the Fortin du Petit-Sault, a small fort built during the Aroostook War in 1841, is a popular attraction. The Cathedrale de l'Immaculee-Conception, with its beautiful architecture and stained-glass windows, is another noteworthy site. The city also hosts the Festival Jazz et Blues d'Edmundston and the Foire Brayonne, a large cultural festival celebrating the French Brayon culture.

When it comes to accommodations and amenities, Edmundston offers a range of options. The city has accommodations, restaurants, grocery stores, pubs, liquor stores, and gift shops. There is also a campus of the French language University of Moncton and a campus of the New Brunswick Community College in Edmundston.

Attractions in Edmundston

Nestled in New Brunswick's Madawaska County, Edmundston is a city that seamlessly blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and a charming atmosphere. Here are some of the top attractions that make Edmundston a must-visit destination:

New Brunswick Botanical Garden

The New Brunswick Botanical Garden is a stunning garden lover's paradise. With over 80,000 plants and a variety of themes, art installations, classes, and even a butterfly house, it offers a delightful experience for all senses. The garden is open daily during the summer season, starting in early May.

De La Republique Provincial Park

De La Republique Provincial Park is a recreational park spanning 44 hectares (108 acres). It offers campsites near the river, providing a perfect blend of nature and convenience. The park features a pool, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, and ample opportunities for activities like boating, hiking, and cycling.

Du Réel Au Miniature: Centre d'Interpretation des Voies Ferrées

This unique attraction is a must-visit for train enthusiasts. It showcases New Brunswick's railyards in miniature, with detailed models of the province's rail network. The centre is run by train enthusiasts Guy and Geraldine, who guide visitors through the fascinating world of railroad history.

Le Fortin Du Petit Sault

Le Fortin Du Petit Sault, also known as the P'tit Sault Blockhouse, was built in 1841 by the British army during the border wars with the US. The fort was abandoned after the war ended peacefully the following year, and it was later destroyed by lightning. It has since been rebuilt, offering visitors a glimpse into a complicated chapter of history.

Cathedrale de l'Immaculee-Conception

The Cathedrale de l'Immaculee-Conception is a spectacular church in the heart of Edmundston. It stands out as one of the most noteworthy buildings in the city and is well worth a visit for its architectural beauty and intricate design.

Mont Farlagne

Mont Farlagne is a downhill ski resort that offers a range of winter activities. With 23 runs catering to all skill levels, from beginner to black diamond, it's a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. Additionally, you can try tubing, fat biking, snowshoeing, or even climb an ice wall. The Avalanche bar provides a cosy retreat with local beer and live music.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault is a craft brewery that offers a delightful selection of beers, including their noteworthy IPA. Their inviting atmosphere, complete with a long table and intimate tables for smaller groups, makes it a perfect spot to unwind and savour a refreshing drink.

Frequently asked questions