Prince Edward Island History: Myths, Settlers, and Confederation

The Story of Prince Edward Island: From Mi'kmaq Roots to Modern Charm

Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada’s smallest province, is a captivating destination known for its stunning landscapes, rolling red cliffs, and fertile farmlands. Often referred to as the "Garden of the Gulf," PEI is celebrated not only for its natural beauty but also for its deep historical and cultural significance.

Long before European settlers arrived, the Mi’kmaq people called the island Epekwitk, meaning “cradled on the waves.” Their profound connection to the land and its resources shaped PEI’s earliest history, leaving a legacy that remains integral to the island’s identity.

In the colonial era, PEI became a center of conflict between French and British forces, with Acadian settlers and Indigenous peoples caught in the struggle. Later, it played a pivotal role in Canadian Confederation, hosting the Charlottetown Conference in 1864, which laid the groundwork for Canada’s formation.

Today, PEI’s history intertwines seamlessly with its charm, drawing visitors to explore its cultural and natural treasures.

Indigenous Beginnings: The Mi'kmaq Nation

Long before European explorers set foot on Prince Edward Island, the Mi’kmaq people thrived on the island they called Epekwitk, meaning “cradled on the waves.” As one of the oldest continuous cultures in North America, the Mi’kmaq relied on PEI’s abundant natural resources for thousands of years, developing a sustainable way of life that revolved around hunting, fishing, and gathering. The surrounding waters provided ample fish and shellfish, while the island’s forests offered game such as deer and small mammals, as well as materials for tools, shelter, and transportation.

The Mi’kmaq were masterful navigators, crafting lightweight birchbark canoes that allowed them to traverse the island’s waterways and beyond. Their seasonal movements followed a deep understanding of the land, migrating between the coast and interior regions in tune with the cycles of nature. Spirituality played a central role in their culture, with ceremonies and stories reflecting their close relationship with the environment.

As members of the Wabanaki Confederacy, an alliance of Indigenous nations that included groups in present-day New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Maine, the Mi’kmaq were politically and culturally influential across the region. This confederacy provided mutual support and strengthened their ability to adapt to changing circumstances, including the arrival of Europeans.

Today, the Mi’kmaq remain a vital part of Prince Edward Island’s cultural fabric. Their history is celebrated through language revitalization, cultural events, and public recognition of their enduring connection to Epekwitk.

European Exploration and Settlement

The arrival of European explorers in the 16th and 17th centuries brought profound change to Prince Edward Island. In 1534, French explorer Jacques Cartier became the first European to document the island during his explorations of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Cartier was struck by the island's fertile land and abundant resources, describing it as an ideal location for settlement.

Under French colonial expansion, the island became part of Acadie (Acadia) and was renamed Île Saint-Jean. French settlers, known as Acadians, established small but thriving communities, relying on farming, fishing, and trade. They cultivated crops such as wheat and oats and developed a vibrant fishery that connected them to broader Atlantic markets. The Acadians’ relationship with the Mi’kmaq was generally cooperative, marked by mutual trade and shared use of the land’s resources.

However, Prince Edward Island’s strategic position in the Gulf of St. Lawrence made it a key point of contention between France and Britain. The island’s proximity to important trade routes and its fertile lands heightened its value during the colonial era. The 18th century saw repeated clashes between the two European powers, as their competition for dominance over North America intensified.

The conflict culminated in the Seven Years’ War (1756–1763), during which Britain gained the upper hand. The Treaty of Paris in 1763 transferred Île Saint-Jean to British control, signaling a new chapter in the island’s history. This period of European colonization left a lasting impact on PEI’s cultural and historical landscape.

The Great Upheaval and British Control

The Treaty of Paris in 1763 marked a dramatic shift in the history of Île Saint-Jean, as control of the island passed from France to Britain. The British renamed it St. John’s Island and quickly implemented policies that altered the demographic and cultural landscape. One of the most significant consequences was the displacement of the Acadian population. Known as the Great Upheaval or Grand Dérangement, thousands of Acadians were forcibly removed from the island as part of Britain’s broader strategy to consolidate power in its North American colonies. Many Acadians were deported to other parts of the British Empire, such as Louisiana, while some managed to evade deportation by fleeing to remote areas or neighboring colonies. A few eventually returned, rebuilding their communities amidst significant hardship.

Following the removal of the Acadians, British settlers began to arrive, lured by promises of land grants and opportunities. The island’s fertile soil supported a burgeoning agricultural economy, with settlers cultivating crops such as wheat, oats, and potatoes. Livestock farming also became a significant part of the rural economy.

However, the British land grant system created a new set of challenges. Large tracts of land were granted to absentee landlords, many of whom never visited the island. Tenant farmers were required to pay rents to these landlords, leading to widespread dissatisfaction. This issue became a major source of tension and would shape the island’s political landscape for decades to come, as farmers sought reforms to secure ownership of their land.

Renaming to Prince Edward Island

In 1799, St. John’s Island was renamed Prince Edward Island, reflecting its growing integration into British colonial identity. The name honored Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn, a prominent member of the British royal family and the father of Queen Victoria. This renaming underscored the island’s loyalty to the British Crown and distinguished it from other places named St. John’s, reducing administrative confusion.

The 19th century saw significant population growth on Prince Edward Island, fueled by waves of immigration from Scotland, Ireland, and England. These new arrivals brought diverse cultural traditions, which contributed to the island’s rich social fabric. The Scots, for instance, introduced Gaelic language and music, which remain a celebrated part of PEI’s cultural heritage. The Irish contributed their own vibrant traditions, while English settlers reinforced the island’s ties to British institutions.

Agriculture continued to be the backbone of the island’s economy during this period. The introduction of potatoes as a staple crop in the early 1800s transformed PEI into a major producer, a legacy that persists to this day as the island is renowned for its high-quality potatoes. Maritime industries, including shipbuilding and fishing, also flourished, with PEI’s location in the Gulf of St. Lawrence providing ample resources and trade opportunities.

This era set the stage for PEI’s evolving identity, blending its agricultural and maritime traditions with the diverse influences of its immigrant populations, creating a community

Confederation and Canadian Identity

By the mid-19th century, Prince Edward Island faced mounting economic challenges that would eventually alter its political course. The island struggled with issues such as land disputes stemming from the absentee landlord system and the high costs of infrastructure development, particularly the construction of a railway to improve trade and transportation. These factors placed significant financial strain on the island's economy, leaving its government in dire need of support.

Initially, PEI chose not to join Canadian Confederation in 1867 when the Dominion of Canada was formed. Many islanders feared losing their autonomy and felt geographically isolated from the mainland provinces. However, the economic burden of railway construction became overwhelming. With debts piling up and limited resources, the island's leadership revisited the idea of Confederation.

In 1873, Prince Edward Island officially became Canada’s seventh province. As part of the terms, the federal government assumed the island's substantial debts and agreed to buy out absentee landlords. This enabled many tenant farmers to gain ownership of their land, a long-awaited resolution to one of PEI’s most pressing social issues. Confederation also brought improved transportation links, such as a government-subsidized ferry service, which connected the island more effectively to mainland Canada. These developments integrated PEI into Canada’s economic framework, fostering growth and stability.

Confederation marked a turning point in PEI's history, securing its future within a united Canada while addressing key challenges that had long hindered its progress.

20th Century Growth and Modernization

The 20th century was transformative for Prince Edward Island, bringing advancements that reshaped its economy and cultural identity. Agriculture remained the cornerstone of the island’s prosperity, with potato farming emerging as a dominant industry. By mid-century, PEI gained national and international recognition for its high-quality potatoes, solidifying its reputation as Canada’s leading potato producer. The agricultural sector also diversified, incorporating modern techniques and new crops to meet growing demands.

Tourism became another pillar of PEI’s economy, spurred by the publication of Anne of Green Gables in 1908. Lucy Maud Montgomery’s novel, set in the idyllic landscapes of PEI, captivated readers worldwide and transformed the island into a literary and cultural destination. Visitors flocked to see landmarks like Green Gables and the rolling hills and red cliffs described in Montgomery’s work, establishing PEI as a haven for cultural tourism.

Transportation improvements further boosted the island’s growth. The construction of the Confederation Bridge, completed in 1997, was a landmark achievement. Spanning nearly 13 kilometers, it became the longest bridge in the world over ice-covered waters. The bridge significantly enhanced connectivity between PEI and the mainland, reducing travel times and facilitating the flow of goods and people.

These developments helped modernize PEI while preserving its unique character. By balancing innovation with tradition, the island successfully adapted to changing times, creating a vibrant community rooted in its history and culture yet ready to embrace the future.

Preservation of Heritage and Culture

Prince Edward Island (PEI) is deeply committed to preserving its cultural heritage and natural beauty, ensuring that its rich history continues to thrive for future generations. The island’s picturesque villages, such as Victoria-by-the-Sea and Orwell Corner, offer a glimpse into the past with their well-preserved architecture and authentic charm. Iconic lighthouses like the West Point and Point Prim lighthouses serve as both functional landmarks and symbols of PEI’s maritime legacy. Historic sites, including Province House in Charlottetown, where the first discussions of Canadian Confederation took place, and Green Gables Heritage Place, immortalized by Lucy Maud Montgomery’s novels, provide immersive experiences that connect visitors to the island’s storied past.

The vibrant cultures of the Mi’kmaq and Acadian communities remain integral to PEI’s identity. Mi’kmaq traditions are celebrated through art, storytelling, and events such as the Abegweit Pow Wow, which invites both residents and visitors to learn about and honor Indigenous heritage. Acadian culture, marked by its unique music, language, and cuisine, is showcased at events like the Evangeline Area Festival, offering an authentic experience of this enduring legacy.

PEI’s cultural vitality is also reflected in modern celebrations such as the Cavendish Beach Music Festival and the Charlottetown Festival, which bring music, theater, and art to the forefront.

Today, PEI continues to balance its agricultural and maritime traditions with sustainability, tourism, and innovation. This careful stewardship ensures that the island’s history, culture, and natural splendor inspire and enchant all who visit or call it home.

Prince Edward Island: A Legacy of Resilience and Charm

Prince Edward Island is more than just a picturesque destination; it is a living testament to centuries of history, culture, and community spirit. From its Indigenous beginnings to its role in shaping Canada, the island’s story is one of resilience and transformation. Whether exploring its historic sites, enjoying its natural beauty, or savoring its famous potatoes, visitors to PEI are immersed in the unique legacy of this small but extraordinary province.