The Village of Victoria was founded in 1819 by James Bardin Palmer, an immigrant lawyer and agent of the Earl of Westmoreland. His son Donald laid out the village on Palmer’s estate. The result can still be seen today by the simple grid pattern of its streets. By the late 1800’s the settlement was prosperous with three wharves and many thriving businesses. Because of its sheltered harbour and strategic location, Victoria became an important seaport with a significant amount of trade with Europe, the West Indies and other east coast ports. A wide variety of produce including potatoes, cattle, grain and eggs, was shipped by schooner from Victoria until the early 1900’s. In the days of the steamboats, Victoria was a regular stop for ferries, in particular the SS Harland, dropping off visitors from Charlottetown and places further a field, to spend a day or two relaxing in the beautiful ‘village by the sea.’
Supplied goods to everyone - from housewives to farmers.
Victoria was a regular port of call for day-visitor's from Charlottetown.
From Victoria's wharves and sheltered harbour.
Supplied goods to everyone - from housewives to farmers.