Sackville: A Gem In New Brunswick

Sackville is a former town in southeastern New Brunswick, Canada. Sackville is a book to be read and a marsh to be wandered upon. Sackville is home to Mount Allison University, the top undergraduate liberal arts university in Canada. Sackville is nestled on the edge of the expansive and fertile Tantramar Marshes and is one of New Brunswick's oldest communities. Sackville has a European settlement history dating back nearly 300 years, while Aboriginal peoples have used the area for over 3000 years. Sackville is known for its popular attractions, including Sackville Waterfowl Park, the Visitor Information Centre, and the Boultenhouse Heritage Centre.

Sackville's history and heritage

The picturesque town of Sackville, nestled on the edge of the Tantramar Marshes, is one of New Brunswick's oldest communities. Sackville has a rich history that dates back hundreds of years and has been influenced by both European settlers and aboriginal peoples who have used the area for over 3000 years. The town's name, chosen by Governor Charles Lawrence in 1759, honours George Sackville, a commander of British Forces.

The first permanent settlers in Sackville were Acadians, who arrived in the early 1670s as the French colony expanded from its base at Port Royal. The Acadians built a system of dykes and sluices that allowed them to cultivate the Tantramar Marshes. However, in 1755, the British conquered Acadia and expelled most of the Acadian residents from the area. This opened the door for new settlers, and Governor Lawrence invited New Englanders to come to Nova Scotia (which then included present-day New Brunswick) and take up free land grants.

The first major wave of settlers to Sackville were the "New England Planters", who arrived in 1760-61. Family names such as Tower, Estabrooks, Cole, Finney, Seaman, Robinson, and Brownell came to the area, mainly from Rhode Island. Additional waves of immigrants from New England followed, as well as a group of 13 Baptists from Swansea, Massachusetts, who established the first Baptist church in Canada. The Township of Sackville was formally created in 1765, and by 1772, it was sufficiently populated to send a representative to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly.

In the late 1830s, Sackville began to shift from an agricultural community to one focused on industry and commerce. Tanneries, leather goods factories, carriage factories, and blacksmith shops sprang up around Morice Mill Pond (now known as Silver Lake). The centre of the town also shifted to its current location when William Crane moved his business to the site of the former town hall in 1836. Shipbuilding also became a significant industry in Sackville, with several shipyards established on the Tantramar River. The last ship built in Sackville was the 32-ton Schooner "Three Links" in 1898, marking the end of an era.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sackville continued to grow and develop. Mount Allison University, established in 1843, became a prominent feature of the town. The downtown business core was constructed, and Sackville was incorporated as a town in January 1903. The 20th century saw the rise and fall of various industries, including boot and shoe manufacturing, stone quarrying, and food wholesaling. Despite some economic ups and downs, Sackville has managed to attract new businesses and services, and it remains a vibrant community with a unique character.

The town's cultural attractions

Sackville, New Brunswick, is a charming small town located on the banks of the Tantramar River and the shores of the Isthmus of Chignecto in the southeastern region of New Brunswick, Canada. The town is known for its natural beauty, vibrant community, and diverse cultural attractions. Here are some of the cultural highlights of Sackville:

Arts and Galleries

Sackville boasts a thriving arts scene with several galleries showcasing local and Canadian artwork. The Owens Art Gallery, located on the campus of Mount Allison University, is the oldest university art gallery in Canada. It features innovative and historical artwork and is considered one of Atlantic Canada's top museums. Other notable galleries include the Fog Forest Gallery, Struts Gallery, Rob Lyons Gallery, Earth Gallery, and the Craft Gallery, each offering unique artistic experiences.

Heritage and History

The town has a rich heritage with several historic sites and cultural venues. The Boultenhouse Heritage Centre, named after the town's most prolific shipwright, showcases Sackville's shipbuilding past. It consists of three historic buildings, including the oldest house in Sackville, built in 1790. The Keillor House Museum, Sackville National Historic Railway Site, St James Textile Museum, and Campbell Carriage Factory Museum also offer insights into the town's history.

Performing Arts and Festivals

Sackville is home to an active performing arts community. The Live Bait Theatre showcases original Canadian plays, and the town hosts arts and music festivals such as SappyFest.

Outdoor Attractions

Sackville offers a range of outdoor cultural experiences. The Sackville Waterfowl Park, with its beautiful trails and boardwalks, provides guided tours and is home to a variety of waterfowl and wildlife. Beech Hill Park is another popular outdoor destination, offering walking and hiking trails, cross-country skiing, playgrounds, and an 18-hole disc golf course.

Farmers Market and Local Shopping

The Sackville Farmers Market, held every Saturday, is a vibrant gathering of local vendors, including small farmers, food producers, and artisans. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the community. Sackville also has specialty shops and boutiques, perfect for finding unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.

Outdoor activities

Sackville, New Brunswick, is a charming small city in Atlantic Canada, offering a range of outdoor activities for visitors and locals alike. The town is situated in the picturesque Tantramar region, providing a beautiful natural backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.

Sackville Waterfowl Park

One of the top attractions in Sackville is the Sackville Waterfowl Park. This park features several well-maintained trails that are cleared during the winter, making it accessible throughout the year. The park offers guided tours from spring to fall, providing an opportunity to learn about the local waterfowl and wildlife. It is also adjacent to the Visitor Information Centre, which offers a range of amenities and services.

Beech Hill Park

Beech Hill Park is another popular destination, welcoming visitors with a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year. It offers walking and hiking trails, snowshoe areas, cross-country skiing trails, playgrounds, picnic spots, and an 18-hole disc golf course. There is something for everyone at Beech Hill Park, making it a great choice for families.

Hiking Trails

For those who enjoy hiking, Sackville has no shortage of scenic trails to explore. The Crooked Tree Trail, Ogden Brook Loop, Sackville Waterfowl Extended Loop, and the Upper Waterfowl Park trail are just a few of the many options available. These trails are maintained by the Tantramar Outdoor Club and offer beautiful natural surroundings, including rustic bridges and babbling brooks.

Outdoor Recreation Programs

Sackville also offers a variety of outdoor recreation programs for all ages and abilities. These include summer sports such as ultimate frisbee, ball hockey, and basketball, as well as nature walks, trail runs, and hikes organised by the Tantramar Outdoor Club. Sackville is an ideal place to connect with nature and the outdoors, providing a range of activities to suit different interests and skill levels.

Local accommodation

Sackville, New Brunswick, offers a range of local accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here is some information about a few of them:

Coastal Inn Sackville

The Coastal Inn Sackville is a popular choice for travellers due to its affordable rates, quality rooms, and easy booking process. It offers 51 air-conditioned units with flat-screen televisions and meeting facilities. It is conveniently located near attractions such as Mount Allison University and the Sackville Waterfowl Park. It provides a free "Coastal Plus" breakfast, unlimited local calling, and a limited number of pet-friendly rooms for an additional fee.

Marshlands Inn

The Marshlands Inn is a unique and historic property, with a building that dates back to 1854. It offers comfortable and pleasingly appointed rooms, with some guests having the opportunity to stay in the carriage house. The inn has an on-site restaurant, and its location is convenient for exploring the town, with many attractions within walking distance.

Wild Rose Inn

The Wild Rose Inn is a historic property, over 170 years old, and is laden with historic information and comforts. It offers an elegant and timeless experience, styled with antiques and nestled on eight manicured acres.

Maplehurst Manor Bed and Breakfast

Maplehurst Manor Bed and Breakfast is located in Dorchester, about 38 kilometres from Moncton Golf & Country Club and 24 kilometres from Fort Beausejour. It provides accommodation with a seating area and a quiet, comfortable stay.

Sackville Golf & Country Club

For those who enjoy golfing, the Sackville Golf & Country Club offers a full-service, 9-hole course that is open to members and the general public from early May to mid-October. It is located at 42 Fairfield Road, Sackville, NB, E4L 2X8.

Restaurants and eateries

Sackville, New Brunswick, is home to a diverse range of restaurants and eateries, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. From casual cafes to fine dining, there is something for everyone.

For those seeking a cosy café experience, Cranewood On Main is a charming option, operating out of the historic Crane house and offering a variety of organic whole foods and baked goods. The Cackling Goose Market is another popular choice, specialising in gluten-free options and offering a great selection of products in a friendly atmosphere.

If you're craving international flavours, Sackville has plenty to offer. Goya's Pizza serves a variety of pizzas, donairs, and subs, and Lebanese food, including chicken and beef shawarma, tabbouleh salad, and hummus. Song's Chopsticks is a casual Asian eatery serving streamlined Korean, Japanese, and Thai dishes. For authentic Chinese cuisine, Hong Kong Kitchen and House of Lam Restaurant are excellent choices.

When it comes to fine dining, Atelier Tony in nearby Dieppe is an experience-driven, upscale casual restaurant. They work with local craftspeople and food producers to serve fresh, creative dishes from the Maritimes. Tony's Bistro & Patisserie in Moncton, brought to you by the same team as Atelier Tony, offers a full pastry shop and bakery, along with a hot kitchen serving dishes like ceviche and croissant sandwiches.

For a more casual dining experience, Patterson's Family Restaurant is a beloved local spot, known for its excellent seafood chowder and friendly service. The Painted Pony Bar & Grill is another favourite, with a chill atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious food. Our Backyard BBQ and Smokehouse is also worth a visit for its mouthwatering homemade BBQ burgers.

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