Jemseg
Exploring Jemseg
A Window into Arcadia’s Rich History
Nestled along the eastern banks of the Jemseg River, where it flows from Grand Lake to meet the Saint John River, you’ll discover the picturesque community of Jemseg. This charming community, now an integral part of Arcadia, boasts a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for those eager to explore the region’s rich heritage.
A Journey through Time
Jemseg’s history harks back to the early days of European settlement in North America. Long before European contact in the 16th century, the Wolastoqiyik, also known as the Maliseet or Malecites, and other indigenous peoples thrived in the region. Their lives were intertwined with the confluence of rivers and lakes, which facilitated trade and travel. The vast expanse of Grand Lake moderated the climate and ensured abundant resources. The region teemed with spring runs of gaspereau and salmon, winter herds of caribou, and various game. The fertile land yielded a cornucopia of wild plants, from spring’s fiddleheads to autumn’s butternuts.
The name “Jemseg” is believed to have originated from the Malecite word “Ah-jem-sik,” signifying a “picking up place.” This referred to the trading that took place in the region before European contact, during the English and French occupations, and later. Initially, the name encompassed two villages: “Lower Jemseg” and “Upper Jemseg.”
17th Century: A Period of Transition
Jemseg’s history provides a microcosm of Acadia’s story, the eastern provinces of Canada that repeatedly changed hands between the French and English after 1604.
In 1659, Colonel Thomas Temple, the English proprietor of Nova Scotia, established the region’s first trading post near the Jemseg River’s mouth. This fortified post facilitated trade with the Maliseet people. However, Acadia was briefly returned to the French in 1667.
A spring flood in 1696 disrupted planting, leading to crop failures. In 1674, Dutch naval captain Jurriaen Aernoutsz attacked the fort during the Franco-Dutch War. Following the death of Pierre de Joybert de Soulanges et de Marson in 1678, the d’Amours brothers, Louis and Mathieu, became the area’s first farmers.
Governor of Acadia Joseph Robineau de Villebon elevated Jemseg to the Capital of Acadia from 1690 to 1691. Around 1700, Fort Jemseg transitioned to a trading post, with a flood in 1701 causing losses to crops and cattle. The settlement later moved to Port Royal, Nova Scotia.
British Colony and the Loyalist Influence
In 1713, the Treaty of Utrecht ceded Acadia to the English. However, ownership of present-day New Brunswick remained disputed until the French and Indian War’s conclusion. English-speaking pre-Loyalist families began settling along the Jemseg River from 1758 to 1783. The arrival of United Empire Loyalists following the American Revolution in 1783 significantly contributed to the village’s growth. The names of these Loyalist families, such as Dykeman, Ferris, Gunter, and Currie, have been passed down through generations, with some still residing on the land granted to their ancestors in the 18th century.
19th Century: Expansion and Education
As the population grew, Jemseg became part of Cambridge Parish in 1852. The community’s development paralleled the construction of churches and schools. Itinerant clergy from the Church of England, and later Baptist ministers, served the community. Schools were established as early as the 19th century, with at least three in the area by 1844.
Jemseg evolved into a thriving and self-sustaining community. Blacksmiths, carpenters, mariners, tanners, shoemakers, weavers, and merchants appeared as the need arose. With the age of wooden ships, residents began building wooden boats and sea-going vessels along Jemseg Creek. Riverboats operated until the 1940s, and farms remained essential until after World War II.
20th and 21st Centuries: Changing Landscapes
In the mid-20th century, Jemseg transitioned from horses to tractors, and a road system was developed for transporting goods to markets. The riverboat era concluded in the 1940s, and by the early 21st century, farming had largely disappeared. The community transformed from self-sufficiency to a haven for retirees and commuters who sought employment elsewhere.
In 2006, Jemseg featured two long-established stores, with one family operating a store for over a century. The Lions organization and the Farmers’ Market thrived, while two Women’s Institute Halls served as community hubs. Although the school closed in 1978, several churches persisted as centers of community life. St. James Anglican Church, constructed in 1887, is an architectural gem, and the Jemseg Baptist Church, dating back to the mid-19th century, embodies the charm of rural churches.
A Glimpse into the Geography of Jemseg
Early settlers were drawn to Jemseg due to various factors. The intricate network of rivers and lakes facilitated year-round transportation. The expansive old-growth forests provided resources for construction, including masts and spars for the King’s Navy. Moreover, the river and Grand Lake’s presence created a temperate climate with an extended growing season. The fertile, flat land allowed farming, and marsh hay abounded, supporting the settlers’ needs. The land grants primarily consisted of 200 acres, and the first settlers established flourishing farms.
Transportation and Modernization
Positioned at the convergence of the Jemseg River and the Saint John River, with access to Grand Lake, Jemseg historically played a pivotal role in water transportation. Various wharves once served steam-powered riverboats until railways eclipsed their significance. The completion of the Trans-Canada Highway in the early 1960s marked a crucial step for Jemseg’s connection to the modern highway network. Route 2 crossed the Jemseg River via the Jemseg River Bridge. In 2002, a new 4-lane expressway alignment of Route 2 was introduced, featuring a new bridge over the Jemseg River.
Today, Jemseg maintains its unique charm, with historical echoes resonating through the modern community. It stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its residents, who have embraced change while cherishing their heritage. With its thriving store, active community organizations, and a strong connection to Arcadia, Jemseg continues to be a captivating place to live and visit, offering a warm welcome to all who explore its scenic shores.
