Learn of the Past and Plan for the Future
• History Submission in recognition of Heritage Day February 21, 2022.
We, as long-time Bear River families, have the right to be proud of our community heritage; proud of our family names that built and maintained the basis of our community. We need to acknowledge the determination that was required to achieve seemingly impossible feats.
Consider clearing land with an axe and an ox-team, building dams to provide water power, and splitting granite rocks by hand.
The following names and descriptions, not to be forgotten, are in no special order.
Main Street was not paved.
The bridge was single-lane steel with two sidewalks.
The Main Street was full of people on Saturday nights.
Cherries were sold by the tree.
There were no school buses.
Conveyor belts stacked pulpwood.
A converted landing barge carried 500 cords of pulpwood out of Bear River weekly.
The Bear River Trading Company was known to all. Ralph Purdy and Will Brittain were attendees.
AB Marshall General Store later to become Darres Bros.
Ralph Harris Variety and Photo Store.
L.V Harris’s Rexall Drug Store.
Sanford’s meat market operated by Allie Harris.
George Benson’s meat market.
The school bell rang every school day.
Church bells rang every Sunday.
All families were busy.
Ox teams were common.
Two steam mills operated.
Riverview Lodge was busy with summer visitors. Owned and Operated by Mrs. B.C Clarke.
Purdy’s ship chandler shop was still standing.
Rice Bros. operated a taxi business.
Harry Harris operated a taxi and the Irving service station.
Fred Harris was the Harbour Master.
Coasting was not allowed on either of our two big hills.
Louis Banks operated the Blacksmith’s shop.
Logs were being hauled to the sawmill in full lengths.
The ‘Joe White’ was the Bear River tug.
Blackout practice was common during the war.
Sugar and gas were rationed at wartime.
Our river was navigated with the help of five-channel buoys.
Families went to church.
At the Green Lantern movies were shown on Saturday nights.
Christmas concerts were at the school.
Cherry Carnival was a big community event.
Vernon Harris then Lawrence Henshaw was the postmaster in the old post office building.
The school burned coal for heat.
Cecil Morgan operated a barbershop.
The Royal Bank was in the IOOF building.
Fred Harris sold insurance.
William Yargle came to town with a horse and buggy.
The above has a time frame beginning approximately sixty years ago, and retraces back to the extent of memory.
We should note at this time we have recorded approximately 140 names that were associated in some manner with the development of our community. This list does not include the majority of our doctors, teachers, and church leaders or military families that were here for only a short time.
Can the magic of Bear River return? What can ignite the industrious, thriving atmosphere that once inspired this community?
Frequently, visitors ask, “Can’t Bear River ever return?”
A recent visitor, after exploring our area, stated very wisely, “The tools are here.” That is exactly the fact that we are attempting to be recognized in our previous posts.
Also here, are the roots of many families. We challenge those who have left to seek their fortunes to not forget their Bear River connection.
Perhaps returning to share acquired knowledge and experience can support the economic growth of a much-loved hometown.
We are thankful for the investment that has been made in our wineries and vineyards: presently our greatest tourism draw.
Jerry Chute should be acknowledged for returning to his hometown and investing in the community that his ancestry traces back to the late 1700s.
We need more entrepreneurs like Jerry that recognized the opportunities available in this very special place.
Our future is in our past…
Infrastructure Development
This is a past view of the late 50s to the early 80s, excluding the private enterprise businesses which will follow in the next post.
Power
Certainly important for all of us.
Nova Scotia Power Corporation Gulch Development began generating power, harnessing the east branch of the Bear River in 1951, and the Ridge development in 1956.
Many workers were required in the building and several operators enjoyed full time jobs upon completion.
Bridges
The single lane, “Victoria Bridge” across the mouth of the river was replaced in 1972, by the first pre-stressed concrete bridge construction in North America.
Exit 24 came into being following the continual request from the past Bear River Board of Trade.
Riverview Manor
Senior Housing became a reality under Nova Scotia Housing.
General Grocery Store
Bernard Fraser rebuilt his store following a disastrous fire that claimed four of our historic buildings.
Katimavik
A federal youth program that was sponsored in Bear River by the Board of Trade. We enjoyed their community assistance for several rotations. Katimavik were also involved in the first restoration of the Green Lantern building by the Bear River Board of Trade.
The Bear River First Nations community also sponsored Katimavik, resulting in the building of the largest log structure east of Montreal.
Restaurant
The Bear River Packet restaurant was built in 1963.
Royal Bank
The Royal Bank building was constructed in the 1970s and it is understood that it became the fastest growing Royal Bank in Nova Scotia, percentage-wise. (Unfortunately it was robbed twice).
The now Bill Benson Memorial Building was purchased by the Royal Canadian Legion for the use of the newly-formed New Horizon’s group of Bear River.
This also allowed for the two buildings next to each other being joined upstairs so as to enlarge the Legion hall.
The Windmill
The Board of Trade received a grant to backfill part of the old wharf property. Following this, the Gierlings made their Dutch design windmill available to our community as an attraction, and it served for a variety of uses, including as an information center.
The Windmill was moved and reconstructed through a Provincial grant. A second grant was secured to construct a concrete basement and two new washrooms.
Rentals
The Fred Harris House was renovated to accommodate four apartments.
Barn Restoration
The building known as the Clarke Barn was renovated in order to accommodate display space for furniture and carpets. (Floor area 7500 sq. ft).
Rebuilding of Wharf -
In 1982, the Board of Trade received a federal grant of $24,000 in the form of a make work project. We had a crew of 14 to rebuild the 275 ft of crib-work on the front of the old wharf area and provide a deck.
The majority of the grant was for labor only, so we had to find materials for the pilings and cribbing. This was with community help. Logs were provided by Harold and Diane Clapp, Clinton Miller, and Bob Benson. We cut as much hackmatack as possible because of the durability of the wood.
We hand-peeled these logs in mid-winter and carried them out of the woods on poles. Sap-peeled wood would have been so much easier in the spring. There were three poles and six men.
Old dumps were saved from the old construction and picked up from other old wharf sites. Tools for the project included mauls, shovels, picks, draw knives, power saw, and a large electric drill for the iron dumps. Other than for having the logs trucked to the wharf site, the only machinery used was on the last day of work. We called ourselves the River Rats.
That is all that memory recalls at present. However, our business community of the same time period will be the next post.
Our Business Past - Sixties, Seventies and a bit…
Let’s consider the following as a refresher for those of us that lived it, and information for our younger generations and newcomers.
This listing affords present-day entrepreneurs of Bear River and others, the opportunity to emphasize and evaluate Bear River’s industrious past.
Private businesses were alive and well.
We will attempt to list in no special order businesses that came into being and those that already existed.
The Bear River Trading Company
Originally established by the Clarke Bros. and operated in the early 1900’s; was a central mercantile and general store. It was an important part of the Clarke empire. Later, it was operated by the Purdy family and Malcolm Parker.
Fraser’s General Store
Our longest running store in regard to location and business. The original store was owned by Alpheus Marshall who was listed as a merchant at his wedding in 1854. Following 1907, the business was operated by A.B Marshall, who was born June 1870 and died in 1961. Following that time, the business was owned by Darres Brothers (Aaron and Titus) followed by Bernard Fraser.
Unfortunately a fire destroyed the original buildings in 1971, with the present-day building being rebuilt at the same location. It is now operated by the Milbury family. Please note that the owners of this business have all been long-time families related to our Bear River community.
In other words this store has been owned and operated by local families for 168 years.
Bear River Aluminum
Operated by Bobby and Wayne Isles at the head of the tide, at the former building operated as a general store by Clayton Harris.
The Packet Restaurant
We opened in 1963 and continued with several operators until the 1980s. This was the first restaurant in Bear River after World War 11.
Teresa’s His and Hers Hairstyling
Established in 1982 and still operating. Currently, this is the longest running year-round business with the same ownership in our community.
Inn Bear River
Owned and operated by Zoe Onysko and Doug Dockrill, located in the former home of A.B Marshall.
Bear River Home Furnishing’s
Owned and operated by Bob and Gertrude Benson. Being in a rural area gave an advantage in acquiring franchises; eg: Zenith color TV’s, McCullough and Pioneer chainsaws, Chrysler and Mercury outboards, Moto Ski snowmobiles, and furniture, carpets, mattresses, plus many more.
We also established a residential subdivision that is now known as Benson Avenue and lots off the Lansdowne Road, with a total of approximately 20 surveyed lots. We built a total of 18 houses in the subdivision and in the Bear River area.
Our maximum number of employees reached 27, with other related businesses.
Because of business growth, two portions of the business were sold. The building known as the barn (later Frenchy’s), was renovated for furniture and carpet sales, while still maintaining community electrical, plumbing and house construction services.
The small engine aspect of Bear River Home Furnishing’s was sold to Dave Parker.
The electronic part of the business was sold to Ron and Margaret Cooper and run as Riverside Electronics.
Bear River Frenchy’s
First established by Barbara Darres; second owners were Zoe Onysko and Doug Dockrill and the third owner was Gertrude Benson.
Bear River had a ladies dress shop; original owner Joan Trimper, then Gail Buckler and then later Gertrude Benson.
Oddacity Designs
Owned and operated by Zoe Onysko who obtained a following for her wearable art designs.
Bear Woods Supply
Owned and operated by Shela Breau and Victor Schneiweiss. Specialized in wooden craft materials.
Simpson Sears Catelog order office was operated by Norma Terry.
The Pink Flamingo
Owners were Zoe Onysko and Doug Dockrill. It was promoted by Bob Dillon lyrics which were painted on the exterior of the building, and was featured on CBC’s On the Road Again television show.
Bear River Drugstore
Operated by the Somers family. Dr. Brennan was our resident doctor.
EMOH
‘Home’ spelled backwards. This was a nursing home run by the Hubley family.
Irving and Gulf Service Stations
Operated in Bear River with several owners over the years.
Riverview Lodge
Operated by the Denton’s as a guest house as well as A.E. Denton Insurance.
Albin Riley maintained a watch and clock repair business. Dean Lennox took over from Albin as the resident watch repairman.
Alcorn’s Sawmill
Was in operation with Gerald Buckler as manager and was located on Clarke’s Marsh. Following this, the mill was owned and operated by John Brittain and Charlie Andrews.
Ralph N. Harris
A shop and photography store, and he was noted in many publications for his photography work.
Stewart Darres’ General Store
Grocery and ice cream store. Located at the foot of Lansdowne hill.
Sanford’s Meat Market
Operated by Allie Harris. Located by the bridge, at the centre of the community. Originally at Captain Anthony’s central shipping location.
The Thread and Thimble owner Vi Beals. 1970’s Manufactured fabric ends
Later there was Diane’s Fabrics and Notions for all your sewing needs. Owner Diane Milbury.
Ethel Benson’s Meat Market
Located by the little bridge before the Fire Hall. The original ice house for the community adjoined the market’s location.
Balser’s Feed and Mechanical Service, Charlie and Mildred Balser. Located at the first mill location across from Oakdene.
Natural Foods Store
Owner Blanche Keats. Located at the bottom of Lansdowne hill. Known as the Commercial House.
We could also mention that in the early part of this time period we had a blacksmith shop operated by Louis Banks.
As well as a barbershop operated by Cecil Morgan. Later there were two barber shops, Chester Kaulback and Maxwell Gillam.
Chipman Chisholm’s Ski Slope
First and only in Bear River; located on Chisholm’s Hill.
Derby Jack’s Sub and Pizza shop. Owned by Jack and Karen Arbeau nee Trimper.
Smith & Squires Printing Shop owned by Mike Smith and Sefton Squires.
Bear River New Horizon’s
This was established in Bear River under the guardianship of Rev. Foster E. Hall, who also published Heritage Remembered, an award-winning publication.
Seniors Riverside Apartments
This is public housing for seniors that was established on the River Road.
The Candle shop
Owner Mark Blugermen. Located next to the Gulf Oil Service Station, now Wilson’s Gas stop.
Axent on Silk
Owner Diane Axent. Featuring dyed silk products and was located at the Stewart Darres building.
The Flight of Fancy
Owned and operated by Rob Buckland-Nicks and has become internationally recognized for fine arts.
The Peck Family has maintained a longstanding contribution to the business community of Bear River. One notable business is related to the aircraft industry, Peck’s Aero products, known all over Canada and the Eastern Seaboard of the United States.
Eddie Peck has also maintained a landing strip in Bear River for decades.
Bear River Laundromat
Located off Sissiboo Road; also maintained a landing strip.
Charlie Charlton owned and operated an excavation and trucking business.
The Costume Rental Shop
Owned and operated by Sarah and Ray Glover. The Glovers returned to Bear River from California with truckloads of handmade costumes and special vintage designed garments; also known as the Riverview Ethnographic Museum.
Keith Fraser Building Supplies was located in Bear River East; however needs to be mentioned because of the draw to Bear River for those seeking building materials.
In addition, we had individual trades represented as carpenters, mechanics, electricians, masons, farmers, woodsmen, artists and laborers.
Please note that these above-noted businesses are all private businesses with private investments.
If you know of other businesses that we have forgotten, just let us know.
The question may be asked, “With all of these established private businesses, what happened?”
To those of us who were in business throughout the seventies we had no reason to think that we would ever need to look back, but would keep advancing and growing.
Our next post will deal with the following ten years and what happened to our economic growth and stability.
During this time, the bass were running. And not all of them got away. These are the two guide pins of the King of the Stripers, Bill Morine.
Bear River… we will survive
In our last post, we attempted to list our Bear River businesses that existed during the 60’s and 70’s and early 80’s. We are certain that we missed several.
One that was a little later was Patterson’s Metal Works.
The family connections to Bear River resulted in a new business in our community. That is a pattern we would certainly like to be repeated by others.
Losses Beyond our Control…
During the 60’s, 70’s and early 80’s, all were thriving. The sky was the limit and unfortunately we did not anticipate all our services and products would not fit in the already determined future.
In 1963, the volunteer Planning Board of Nova Scotia was established, dealing with future economic growth, environment, tourism, and the fight against regional economic disparity.
“This Board” existed for 25 years and embraced most areas of public polls in the province. Losses of employment in our community in no special order are as follows:
• Lincoln Pulp Company of Lincoln, Maine
They eventually became owners of our vast area of woodland, previously under the control of Clarke Brothers. The company established their offices in the former first bank building of Bear River, now the New Horizon’s location.
Stanley Sabine and Pat McCarthy provided local management of the operation. Throughout the Second World War, pulp wood was shipped out of Bear River to Maine on the then Norwegian ship…………followed by the Transporter, a converted landing barge.
Two massive wood stacking wood conveyors were built on the then newly-topped wharf area to assist with loading. All this was peeled pulpwood, peeled by hand.
The Transporter pushed and towed by the Fundy Queen out of Parrsboro, NS, made weekly trips from Bear River to Maine carrying 500 cords of pulpwood on each trip. (Note: with the loss of one complete road in the Bay of Fundy).
The depletion of the wood supply eventually ended the operation in Bear River and the employment of all those involved.
• Maritime Tel&Tel
Bear River with the office located adjacent to the then Grand Central Hotel on the River Road, originally known as Jones Road in that area.
They maintained a local staff of operators plus visiting maintenance crews; local manager was Rae Burns. This was terminated after the construction of the non-staffed utility, located by the Bear River Fire Hall.
• Nova Scotia Power
Established the most valuable infrastructure in Bear River, with the building of the power plant-dams, waterways, pipeline, surge tank, etc. Economically, this was certainly of great value to our community, considering the employment it provided, not only in the building, but in the ongoing operation at that time. There were in excess of a dozen full time employees. Families that moved to Bear River and became involved in our community activities included Cox, Orde and Wagner.
Modern technology eliminated many of these positions.
• Oakdene School
Built in 1936 following the destruction of the original Bear River Academy, Oakdene maintained a full teaching staff, including Grade 11, until 1953. Then, cutbacks were made in the grades until the final closing in 1993. This was certainly a blow to our community life, and perhaps the most devastating. It was not only the loss of teachers’ positions, but most importantly, it was the loss of our students and their early life experiences and v CBonnection to their community. Those who experienced Oakdene can attest to the greatest of our lifetime memories.
• The Royal Bank
Bear River could boast of a bank since 1898; a branch of the Commercial Bank of Windsor, and then the Union Bank of Halifax in 1902, followed by change of ownership to the Royal Bank. Managers included W.M Romans, Snow, Pervais, Chesley and Cox.
The second location was in the IOOF building built approximately in 1920. The third location is now occupied by the Community Medical Centre.
Our bank was robbed twice in two years, which no doubt added to the rationale of its eventual closure. This increased the necessity to travel to Digby for all banking activities, resulting in less shopping in our community and a bonus to nearby Digby.
• Conclusion
The loss of all of the above were beyond our control, yet anticipated by “the powers that be,” and destined to happen. Simply, we may conclude that the chief town of each county or municipality would become the centre of services and needed infrastructure.
The above resulted in the direct loss of in excess of 60 year round positions, plus the indirect decrease in community employment.
The demise of these entities were not the only cause of the reduction of our business community. Maritime Forwarding, a federal subsidy of freight cost was terminated, resulting in excessive increase in rates in some cases. Bulk shipments by boxcar became a necessity before the loss of the railroad. Large retailers and box stores throughout the province certainly enjoyed an advantage over smaller retailers and communities by bulk supplies and private carriers.
Bank interest for all became a certain disadvantage because of higher rates in the 1980s. The Federal Development Bank catered to the chief towns that enjoyed basic infrastructure services such as schools, water, sewer and transportation.
Because of our school loss, living with small families in or around the community became a serious concern.
Our entire area suffered with the termination of the railway service and the bus transportation.
Now the most significant economic loss also being out of our control was the Cornwallis Military Training Base, with an estimated total annual input to the entire area of $50 million.
The Base was certainly a beneficial generator of income to our community and all adjoining communities. We now have no available statistics as to the number of direct employees of the Base living in Bear River. However, directly and indirectly, a conservative estimate would be 60.
We became very dependent on the Base and certainly were ill-prepared for it’s closure. This was the primary economic generator remaining for our community because at that time, other industries were of minimal community support.
In 1985, Bear River Downtown Development Corporation Ltd. set up by the Board of trade was able to secure a federal development project to the amount of $297, 910.00 to “help advert the further decline of the economic base in Bear River.”
The majority of successful industry development in our community during the past 20 years has been through private investment, determination, and desire to have our Bear River maintain its rightful place.
Photo captions:
Photo showing the Tom Wallace Wharf with lumber in the left hand foreground and the Lincoln Pulpwood conveyors with piles of pulp wood.
Bear River telephone office switchboard with one of the operators, Evelyn Chalmers.
Photo showing original wooden form for bearings of a conveyor. Forms are still in existence.