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History of the Pointe-du-Chêne Wharf
Pointe-du-Chêne and the general Shediac area have been
key players in the transportation history of the southeast
region of New Brunswick. Before the arrival of European
colonists, native groups used this area as the key
"terminal" for travel to and from Prince Edward Island.
This strategic role was maintained by French settlers and
continued by British North American colonies who
initiated a ferry service between Shediac and
Summerside and Charlottetown in 1858. In actual fact,
this service was only discontinued in 1917 when the ferry
"The Empress" made its last crossing. Additionally, New
Brunswick's first ship dry dock was located in Shediac.
Besides the rich marine history, Shediac and Pointe-du-Chene also have had significant roles
in the development of other transportation modes. For instance:
- The first public road was constructed between Moncton and Shediac in 1816.
- The first rall link in the Maritime Provinces was provided by the European and North
American Railway commencing in 1858 with a connection between Moncton and
Shediac as well and;

- Shediac Bay was a major stop of the
Pan American Clippers which were seaplanes
operated by Pan American Airways making
Trans Atlantic crossings before World War II.
- Highway and railway access made travel to the great
beaches and scenary of the local area possible.
Commencing with the residents of the Greater Moncton
Area,the draw of this area now extends to many parts of
North America who view it as a pristine recreational jewel.
As a consequence of the area's development as a
primary tourism destination, it is not surprising that
demand for recreational boating has increased.
These demands have blended with the traditional requirements of the fishery
to produce a very active usage profile, particularly in the summer months.
(Historical Sketch - AMEC 2004 Business and Long Range Development Plan - the full report
is available on the Organization/Planning page)
Other historical images further down the page

In 2004 the federal government funded major infrastructure repairs to the wharf that permitted structural
stabilization on major sections that were in dire need of repair. The funding was made available by a contribution
under the "Strategic Community Investment Fund" of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA.) These expenditures were necessary for public safety,
fundamental services and to permit economic development for the future.
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