Perth-Andover: New Brunswick's Gem

Perth-Andover is a former village in Victoria County, New Brunswick, Canada. It is now part of the village of Southern Victoria. The village is divided by the Saint John River, with Perth on the east bank and Andover on the west bank. Perth-Andover is located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains and spread over both sides of the Saint John River. It offers a range of visitor experiences, including a self-guided Cultural Walkway tour and the Southern Victoria Historical Museum. There are also local events such as the Larlee Creek Hullabaloo and the Gathering of the Scots.

Perth-Andover is a former village in Victoria County, New Brunswick, Canada

Andover was originally called Little Tobique, and was named after the town in Hampshire, England. Many of its original land grants were given to English soldiers and Loyalists from the American Revolution. Perth, initially called Larlee, was part of the territory of the Tobique First Nation. The reserve was established in 1801 at the band's request. However, due to squatters, the First Nation was forced to surrender a total of 2,539 acres, much of it in Perth-Andover.

In the 19th century, the region was settled by Loyalist English soldiers who received land in lieu of payment. Perth, located on the east bank of the river, owes its name to the Scottish city. The Parish of Perth was created in 1833 and named by a group of government officials in honour of Perth, Scotland.

Perth-Andover has a rich history and natural beauty. It is nestled between the rolling hills of the upper river valley and is often referred to as the "Gateway to the Tobique." The village is located about 40 kilometres south of Grand Falls, near the mouth of the Tobique River. The area offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing on three local trail systems: the International Appalachian Trail, Trans Canada Trail, and Sentier NB Trail.

Perth-Andover also has a number of historical spots that showcase the heritage of the village, including the Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) areas, English, and Scottish heritage. The Southern Victoria Historical Museum, located in an historic Methodist church from 1837, is one such spot. The Castle Inn, a bed and breakfast-style inn, is another notable accommodation in the area, offering stunning views of the St. John River.

The village hosts several local events throughout the year, including the Larlee Creek Hullabaloo, the Gathering of the Scots Festival, the NB Pro Bass Tournament, and the Tobique (Negootkook) First Nation Powwow.

The village is divided by the Saint John River

The village of Perth-Andover, New Brunswick, is divided by the Saint John River, with Perth situated on the east bank and Andover on the west bank. The two communities were separate until 1966, when they amalgamated. The river is prone to flooding, and in 1987, an extremely high water level forced residents to evacuate. The Canadian Pacific Railway bridge was also demolished by a large ice jam.

The Saint John River is a 673-kilometre-long (418-mile) river that flows within the Dawnland region, from headwaters in the Notre Dame Mountains near the Maine-Quebec border through western New Brunswick to the northwest shore of the Bay of Fundy. It is the longest river in eastern Canada, and its drainage basin is one of the largest on the east coast, at about 55,000 square kilometres (21,000 square miles). The river is mostly calm, except for waterfalls at Grand Falls and the Beechwood Dam.

The river is named after John the Baptist, as Samuel de Champlain visited its mouth on the feast day of John the Baptist in 1604. The river is also known as the "River of the Good Wave" by the Wolastoqiyik and Passamaquoddy First Nations, who lived in the river's territorial countries before European colonisation. The river remains a cultural centre for the Wabanaki Confederacy.

The lower section of the Saint John River, extending from Fredericton to the City of Saint John, is nicknamed the "Rhine of North America" due to its popularity for recreational boating. The river is joined by the Aroostook and Tobique rivers at Perth-Andover and is crossed by the world's longest covered bridge at Hartland.

Perth-Andover is known for its annual festivals, including the Gathering of the Scots and the Larlee Creek Hullabaloo

Perth-Andover in New Brunswick, Canada, is known for its annual festivals, including the Gathering of the Scots and the Larlee Creek Hullabaloo. The village, situated on the Saint John River, has a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community.

The Gathering of the Scots is a multi-day festival celebrating Scottish heritage and culture. Founded by Rod MacIntosh and the Clan MacIntosh, the festival attracts supporters and visitors from across North America. It is held at Veteran's Field on the last weekend of May.

The Larlee Creek Hullabaloo, also known as "The Little Festival that Could," is a music festival showcasing the best talent from Canada's East Coast and beyond. It takes place in August at Baird's Campground and is known for its genre-rich lineup, collaborative performances, and hospitality.

In addition to these flagship events, Perth-Andover also hosts other major festivals throughout the year, such as the Tuff Muck Challenge in July and the Dam Run marathon in October. These events contribute to the vibrant cultural life of the village and attract visitors from near and far.

Perth-Andover's annual festivals are a testament to the community's spirit and love for celebration, providing entertainment and fostering a sense of togetherness among its residents and guests.

The village offers outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing on local trail systems

The village of Perth-Andover, located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, offers a plethora of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. With its location along the Saint John River, the village is a haven for those seeking adventure on the water and trails.

For those who enjoy hiking, biking, and skiing, Perth-Andover provides access to three local trail systems: the International Appalachian Trail, Trans Canada Trail, and Sentier NB Trail. These trails offer a diverse range of experiences, from leisurely strolls to challenging climbs, against the backdrop of the majestic Appalachian Mountains. During the winter months, these trails are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, allowing visitors to explore the snow-covered landscapes.

The Perth-Andover Waterfront Adventure Centre, situated along the beautiful Saint John River, offers various water activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. The Centre provides rentals of bicycles, kayaks (single and double), motorized canoes, paddleboards, and pedal boats, ensuring that everyone can find an activity to suit their interests.

In addition to the trails and water activities, Perth-Andover also sits on the edge of excellent hunting, fishing, and wilderness areas. The village truly embodies the spirit of outdoor exploration and adventure, catering to a wide range of interests and skill levels. Whether you're a hiker seeking breathtaking views, a water sports enthusiast, or a nature photographer, Perth-Andover has something for everyone.

Perth-Andover has a range of accommodation options, including bed and breakfast inns, vacation rentals, and hotels

Perth-Andover, a former village in Victoria County, New Brunswick, Canada, offers a range of accommodation options for visitors. Whether you're looking for a cosy bed and breakfast, a vacation rental, or a hotel, Perth-Andover has something to suit your needs.

For those seeking a home-away-from-home experience, bed and breakfast inns like Kringle's Bed & Breakfast and Baird House Bed and Breakfast offer a charming and intimate stay. These inns provide a more personalised experience, often including delicious homemade breakfasts and a cosy atmosphere.

If you're planning an extended stay or prefer the comforts of home, vacation rentals are also available in Perth-Andover. These rentals typically offer more space and amenities, such as kitchens and living areas, making them ideal for families or groups.

Additionally, Perth-Andover is home to several hotels that cater to a variety of budgets and preferences. The Perth-Andover Motor Inn, for example, offers modern and clean rooms with refrigerators and large TVs, all at a great price. Other options include the Fort Road Motel and Settlers Inn & Motel, which boast friendly staff and well-equipped rooms.

Whether you're visiting for a quick getaway or an extended vacation, Perth-Andover's accommodation options ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. With a range of choices, from quaint bed and breakfasts to well-appointed hotels, you're sure to find the perfect place to rest and recharge during your time in this charming Canadian village.

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