Historic sights in city of Saint John

Historic sights
'The view of Carleton Martello Tower that was built as a defense structure in Saint John town (New Brunswick, Canada).' - City of Saint John
'The view of Carleton Martello Tower that was built as a defense structure in Saint John town (New Brunswick, Canada).' Ramunas Bruzas / Shutterstock

Saint John has commonly been referred to as “Canada’s Most Irish City”, and “The Loyalist City”, due to its respectable historic and artistic background. Furthermore, Saint John was incorporated in the year 1785, making it the oldest Canadian city. People visit from all over the world to view the history of this astonishing city.

The Carleton Martello Tower is a historical place that you will find in Saint John. Dating back to the War of 1812, you can catch an amazing view of the entire city of Saint John, as well as its harbor. Another spectacular place that you should not miss is the County Court House & Spiral Staircase. Constructed within a 5 year period, between 1824, and 1829, the Courthouse surprisingly was a survivor of the Great Fire. The beautiful spiral staircase had a total of 49 steps which were made of a solid block of stone. In addition, each step does not have a supporting central pillar. This is a must see attraction for the history lover.

Fort Dufferin, Fort Howe, and Fort La Tour are more astounding places that one should visit in Saint John. Fort Dufferin was known widely as the place where gun emplacements were installed for protection of the harbor. Fort Howe is known for the gorgeous view of the city and harbor. Fort LaTour is named after Francoise Marie LaTour who is well known as the first Canadian heroine.

Forth Howe, the site of an 18th and 19th century British Army fortification on a hill in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada surrounded by blue sky with waving flag
'Forth Howe, the site of an 18th and 19th century British Army fortification on a hill in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada surrounded by blue sky with waving flag' - GVictoria / Shutterstock

The Imperial Theatre is known for featuring performers such as Harry Houdini, Ethel Barrymore, John Sousa, and Gracie Fields. It opened in 1913, after being designed by Albert E. Westover.

Another famous historical site is the Loyalist House which construction started in 1811, and was completed by David Daniel Merrit who was from New York. The Loyalist House is actually the oldest standing building in Saint John. Today, New Brunswick Historical Society owns the building in which they acquired in 1959.

The Loyalist Burial Ground is another historical site that is perfect for visitors. You can view the graves of Coonradt Hendricks, and KC Irving at the Old Burial Ground. Hendricks has the oldest gravestone at the site.

An amazing street full of 19th century architecture is Prince William Streetscape. The rare designed buildings attract many visitors worldwide. This is sometimes called “Wall Street”, and is composed of banks, hotels, legal offices, and more.

Furthermore, you must visit Saint John City Market if coming to the area. This market, formerly known as Country Market opened officially in 1876. This is another gorgeous building that is built similar to an inverted hull to reflect the history of the city.

Finally, another historic site that one should view is St. Patrick’s Square. The “Three Sisters” also known as “Trinity Lamps” are located here. Also, a Celtic Cross is placed near the Three Sisters” lamp. The cross was placed there to remember the many Irish immigrants who died due to typhus fever on their way to New Brunswick.

Partridge Island Quarantine Station was Canada's first quarantine station used in 1785. Many immigrants flocked to the Island in the 1840’s. This was a place for immigrants to come from Ireland during the Great Famine. This site however is not accessible by the public at this time.