Prince Edward Island History

History

This information can help you determine significant cultural, ecclesiastical, and political events in the history of Prince Edward Island. Changes in geographical boundaries and ownership of land are especially important in determining where to search for the records of your ancestors.

1534: Jacques Cartier discovered the island, which the Micmac Indians called Abegweit.

1603: Samuel de Champlain claimed the island for France and called it Ile-St-Jean.

1719: Three hundred settlers from France, sponsored by the commercial company of the Count de St-Pierre, established the first colony on the island, Port la Joie, at the entrance to the harbor of Charlottetown.

1745: The French colony was captured by the British.

1748: France regained the lost colony.

1758: The British occupied the island, dispersed many of the French settlers, and renamed it St. John Island.

1763: France ceded the area to Great Britain. It was placed under the jurisdiction of Nova Scotia. Later, the British divided the island into three counties, each with a townsite and 67 lots (townships).

1765: Charlottetown was named the capital of the colony.

1767: The lots were awarded to grantees or proprietors who were expected to promote settlement but who were mainly absentee landlords.

1769: The island separated from Nova Scotia and the first governor was appointed.

1799: The name was changed to Prince Edward Island.

1851: The island had its first representative government.

1864: A meeting was held in Charlottetown to discuss regional union. 1867 The Land Purchase Act ended the tenure system of 1767.

1873: The Province of Prince Edward Island was formed and became part of the Dominion of Canada.