Roberts Arm, a quaint town nestled near Crescent Lake in Division No. 8, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is a hidden gem on the northern part of Newfoundland. This small town is not only known for its picturesque landscapes but also for its rich history and the legendary Lake Monster, Cressie, believed to reside in Crescent Lake.
The history of Roberts Arm is as intriguing as its natural beauty. The town is listed on the British Admiralty map of Notre Dame Bay, dating back to March 1883. The Supreme Court Central Circuit and Northern Circuit noted Roberts Arm in 1886 and 1879 respectively. The Newfoundland census of 1891 also mentions the town, albeit as Rabbits Arm.
The town was known as Rabbits Arm until the early 1900s, named after the abundance of snowshoe hare in the area. The name Roberts Arm is believed to have been inspired by John Roberts, an influential community member who owned a significant amount of land in the area.
The economic backbone of Roberts Arm was logging. Between 1930 and 1935, Peter Parsons from Long Island was contracted to produce pit props for the overseas market. The wood was transported via a brook to Tommy's Arm, a shipping depot for pit prop and pulpwood located about three miles outside of the community.
In 1937, Roberts Arm became a major center for pulpwood when Bowater, under the supervision of A. J. Hewlett, started operations in the town. This led to a population increase as men from other communities working in Tommy's Arm moved to Roberts Arm with their families.
The Roberts Arm Strike was a significant event in the town's history. The strike was a result of poor camp conditions and low wages. The workers were being paid $2.00 per cord, which was significantly less than the $2.50 per cord that other loggers in Newfoundland were receiving. The strike was short-lived when Sir Eric Bowater threatened to shut down operations. The strikers apologized and agreed to return to work for $2.00 per cord, ensuring the continuation of the operation.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Roberts Arm had a population of 722 living in 351 of its 385 total private dwellings. This was a decrease of 10.3% from its 2016 population of 805. With a land area of 36.09 km2, the town had a population density of 20.0/km2 in 2021.
Roberts Arm is not just about history; it's also about breathtaking natural beauty. The town boasts of a majestic hiking trail, the Hazelnut Adventure Trail, which encompasses the end of Crescent Lake nearest to the community. The town's most famous resident, the Lake Monster Cressie, is believed to inhabit Crescent Lake, adding a touch of mystery and intrigue to this charming town.
Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a fan of folklore, Roberts Arm, Newfoundland Labrador, has something to offer. Come and discover the unique blend of history and natural beauty that makes Roberts Arm a must-visit destination.
