Woodstock, New Brunswick

I got to enjoy an extended visit in Woodstock, New Brunswick, due to a failing transmission in Big Baby Blue. At least if you have get stuck somewhere, our beautiful campsite on the Saint John River was much better than, say, the on-ramp to the highway or some mosquito-ridden leech lake campsite in Ontario.

We were able to limp our truck to Fredricton and rent a car for a few days of exploration.

Woodstock was settled primarily by Loyalists in the late 1700’s and became New Brunswick’s first town incorporated in 1856. It has many old homes which are now heritage buildings. Here are some I found interesting:

Dr. Brown House

This Classic Revival home has large bay windows and intricate pilasters. Dr. Brown (1891-1950) started his practice in Woodstock in 1920 and then served in World War II as a medical officer.

Sunder House

This early Neo-classical home has a veranda that is a “gothic variation” with low Tudor Arches. It belonged to George Connell, son of New Brunswick MLA and MP Charles Connell (1838-1881) and is one of the largest houses in Woodstock.

Judge Jones House

This house is a rare example of Picturesque architecture having steeply pitched gables and unusual porthole windows. It was built in 1856 and is named after a long-time resident.

Dr. Rankin House

This home, built between 1876 and 1889, was considered Second Empire but it’s original mansard roof burned off. Dr. Rankin, a later owner, was instrumental in establishing a hospital in Woodstock.

I really enjoyed the small-town way of life here and it was a little sad to say goodbye to some friends we made at the campsite like Ron who lived on-site and gave Ray carrots out of his garden for fixing his television. And Tom who ran the campsite (Ron’s son) who gave us a free night for fixing his wifi router. And Martin whose “little buddy” made friends with our dogs.

Well, that’s it for New Brunswick, folks. Next week we’re moving on to Prince Edward Island.