1829

From The Story of Dartmouth, by John P. Martin:

Some idea of the appearance of Dartmouth may be gathered from the following unusually long description published in the Acadian Recorder, October 31, 1829:

“DARTMOUTH—On Monday, the frame of a new Catholic chapel was raised in this delightfully situated little village. The caulking of the Steam Boat was nearly completed, and she appears ready for her machinery; piles are driving, and repairs making at the wharf intended for her use. Considerable animation seemed to pervade every quarter, which made the town appear very attractive. We are glad to witness indications of improvement in Dartmouth; we agree that it will increase rapidly in size and value. Independent of its being the outlet for the Shubenacadie Canal, it has many attractions which must operate favorably on her circumstances according as Halifax improves.

With a south west aspect; sheltered from keen north and east winds by hills; enjoying a delightful sea scene and breeze, possessing romantic walks along the shores, and through the surrounding very picturesque country; having the retirement of country life, with the convenience of being divided from the metropolis by not more than a ten minute sail; we think that Dartmouth to the invalid and to many other classes holds out peculiar inducements as a place of residence.”