Nestled in Restigouche County, Atholville, New Brunswick, Canada, is a community that boasts a rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Once a village, Atholville became part of the city of Campbellton in 2023. This article explores the history, geography, and attractions of Atholville, providing a comprehensive guide for those interested in visiting or learning more about this charming community.
The Atholville district was covered with ice during the Wisconsin glaciation and was likely released from the glaciers around 13,000 BC. The first inhabitants of the area were the Mi'kmaq who settled there in the 6th century BC in a village called Tjikog. This village was the largest Mi'kmaq village and the only one permanently inhabited in the region.
The Acadians arrived in Atholville in 1750, marking the beginning of the French period. However, the French defeat at the Battle of Restigouche in 1760 hindered the development of the settlement. Despite this setback, the inauguration of the Intercolonial Railway in 1876 and the development of the forestry industry in the early 20th century led to significant growth in the village.
After the French and Indian War, British traders established pickling plants for salmon in Atholville. The village experienced further development with the arrival of Robert Ferguson in 1796, who built a house named Athol House, giving the village its modern name.
Atholville was incorporated as a municipality in 1966 and experienced significant growth, with the establishment of a shopping centre in 1974 and the continued importance of the forestry industry in the local economy. On 1 January 2023, Atholville became part of the city of Campbellton, although the community's name remains in official use.
Atholville is located four kilometres west of downtown Campbellton and is considered part of Acadia. The village is bordered to the north by the Restigouche River and has an area of 119.60 square kilometres. The Appalachian Mountains cover most of the territory of the municipality, providing stunning natural landscapes.
Atholville is home to several architectural monuments, including a war memorial located east of the Town Hall and the ruins of a landing stage that allowed the supply of wood for the pulp and paper mill until the 1960s.
Atholville is a bilingual community, with both English and French spoken by more than 20% of the population. In 2011, Atholville became the third municipality in New Brunswick to adopt an ordinance on outdoor advertising language requiring bilingual display in English and French.
Atholville offers several community services and facilities, including the Sugarloaf Provincial Park, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The village's history, culture, and geography are featured at the Museum of the Restigouche River at Dalhousie, and the National Historic site of the Battle of Restigouche at Pointe-à-la-Croix commemorates the historic battle.
In conclusion, Atholville, New Brunswick, is a community rich in history and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a curious traveller, Atholville offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and stunning landscapes that are sure to captivate and inspire.
