Nestled in northwestern New Brunswick, along the banks of the Saint John River, amongst rolling hills and fertile lands, lies Florenceville-Bristol.
This charming town has transformed from a small settlement to a thriving agrarian hub, renowned for its bountiful harvests and innovative farming practices.
Its rich history and dedication to the humble potato have earned it the esteemed title of French Fry Capital of the World.
Early Beginnings
In the late 18th century, British Loyalists, who had originally emigrated to New England in the 1630s and 1640s, began to settle on the east coast of Canada. The American Revolution had essentially turned them into political refugees.
A number of these people arrived in a village known as Buttermilk Creek. They were attracted by the area’s fertile soil and abundant natural resources.
In 1855, New Brunswick Lieutenant Governor Lemuel A. Wilmot renamed the village to Florenceville. This was done in honour of Florence Nightingale, the renowned Crimean War nurse.
On July 1, 2008, Florenceville, and the nearby town of Bristol were consolidated into the Town of Florenceville-Bristol.
Growth and Development
As the 19th century progressed, Florenceville experienced significant growth and development.
The construction of the New Brunswick Railway was bringing new opportunities for trade and commerce. The town’s economy began to flourish. It boasted a shingle mill, grist mill, and general store.
Along with the railroad, the Saint John River – which runs through the town – also played a crucial role in the transportation of goods. The waters allowed for steam-powered river boats to facilitate trade up and down the river.
Farming and lumbering emerged as the primary industries of Florenceville.
The McCain Foods Era
In 1957, the McCain brothers – Wallace, Harrison, Robert, and Andrew – founded McCain Foods. It was a small family business that would eventually grow into a global empire.
The brothers were sons of a third-generation farmer. They leveraged their family’s knowledge of agriculture and combined it with innovation and entrepreneurial spirit.
Their goal was simple: to create wholesome food for families.
Little did they know that their modest venture would become a global success. McCain Foods eventually went on to produce one-third of all French fries consumed worldwide.
Agricultural Abundance
Florenceville-Bristol’s fertile soil, known as the “Holmesville” soil, proved ideal for growing potatoes. And so, the town became a seat for potato farming.
Local farmers, including those who worked with McCain Foods, took great care to cultivate the land. Their efforts ensured bountiful harvests and high-quality produce.
The town’s potato production was further bolstered by the presence of the New Brunswick Potato Museum and the Shogomoc Historical Railway Site. Both locations showcased the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
A Thriving Community
As Florenceville-Bristol continued to grow and develop, the town’s community spirit flourished. Residents came together to celebrate festivals and events, including the Festival of Flavour, Canada Day, and the Buttermilk Creek Fall Festival.
The town’s cultural landscape was further enriched by the presence of the Andrew and Laura McCain Library and Gallery. This was a non-profit community-supported entity that hosted exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings as a Loyalist settlement, Florenceville-Bristol’s history is a notable story of progress.
The town’s early days were marked by the arrival of British Loyalists who settled in the area. As the years passed, it underwent significant transformations, ultimately becoming the French Fry Capital of the World.
Through its evolution, the town became a thriving agricultural focus, renowned for its high-quality potatoes and innovative farming practices.
Undoubtedly, Florenceville-Bristol’s past has left an indelible mark on the region’s history and culture.
The town’s strategic location along the Saint John River, its fertile “Holmesville” soil, and its strong farming traditions all contributed to its success.
The McCain Foods empire, was a pivotal role in the town’s growth and development. The company did so by employing thousands of people and producing millions of pounds of French fries every year.
As a result, Florenceville-Bristol became synonymous with high-quality potatoes and French fries. With its strong foundation in agriculture, innovation, and community spirit, the town built a lasting legacy that continued to inspire.
