Page 10 - Giv'er Miramichi Magazine - Fall Giver 2024

Miramichi River Wars

Book Review

By John Vickers

Miramichi River Wars is a gripping account of one and a prolonged
of the most intense and dramatic chapters in the history animosity between
of the Miramichi River Valley. I was motivated to write their respective
the book after reviewing the fierce rivalry between two supporters. Intense
timber barons, Joseph Cunard and Alexander Rankin, moments abound,
whose ambitions and conflicts shaped the destiny of the especially the buildup
region during the 19th century. For readers interested in to the elections, when
New Brunswick's local history, this effort brings to life hundreds of men
the power struggles, political intrigue, and community crossed the river,
division that defined the era. prepared for a
The heart of the story lies in the epic battle between showdown.
Cunard and Rankin, whose competition for control of The men who
the timber industry escalated into violent confrontations. worked for Cunard and
The tensions between these two figures weren’t just Rankin weren’t just
about business—they sparked cross-river hostilities that labourers; they were
divided entire communities. Cunard, based in Chatham, loyal soldiers in a war
and Rankin, in Douglastown, gathered loyal factions of for economic survival and political dominance. The
workers and allies, leading to literal fighting elections heightening tension offers readers a sense of the scale
of the conflicts which took place.
The broader implications of the feud are also
touched on, showing how the rivalry between Cunard
and Rankin had lasting effects on the development of
the Miramichi region. The political maneuvering, public
battles, and alliances forged during this time left a mark
on the communities that would be felt for generations.
Versus just a story of two men, it’s the story of a river,
its people, and the forces that shaped its history.
What I hope makes Miramichi River Wars especially
attractive to local readers is its deep connection to the
heritage of the region. 19th-century Miramichi is
brought to life, from the bustling shipyards to the
crowded polling stations, painting a vivid picture of a
region in the throes of transformation.
For anyone interested in local history, politics, or the
timber industry’s role in shaping communities, I highly
recommend Miramichi River Wars. It’s not just a book
about the past; it’s a reflection on how rivalries and
ambitions can shape the future of a region. My hope is
that readers will walk away with a deeper understanding
of the Miramichi’s rich heritage and the forces that have
A rush to conquer the woods and the rivers as feuding river shaped it.
timber barons fought across the Miramichi for political Available at local bookstores and online at
dominance for their respective side of the river. www.riverbooks.ca

10 www.GiverMiramichi.com Fall 2024