Prince Edward Island is more than, scenic drives, picturesque maritime and pastoral views, busy harbors, vintage lighthouses and church suppers. PEI also has a vital role in the history of the Canada's confederation. Charlottetown,is the capital of Prince Edward Island and is known as the Birthplace of Canada.
In 1864 at Province house, the Charlottetown Conference took place, to discuss the idea of a united Canada. It was here that the seeds of confederation were planted. After further conferences in Quebec then London, England, a small group of provinces joined the confederation. The year was 1867 and Canada was born. PEI did not join right away. Eventually all provinces except Newfoundland became part of the Dominion. Newfoundland became the tenth province when it finally joined in 1949.
A tour of this historic city is a must. Walk down pleasant tree-lined streets past elegant Victorian homes, and historic buildings. Province House National Historic Site is where the conference was held. Confederation Landing Park is where the fathers of Confederation landed. There is also Confederation Trail and the nearby Confederation Center for the arts, which houses three theatres, a restaurant and excellent art gallery.
Overlooking the historic harbor is Peaks wharf This modern center houses shops and restaurants. Charlottetown is a unique and splendid blend of old and new.
It is now time to pack up and leave this lovely place. We load our car and head back across the Confederation Bridge to Moncton where we board the overnight train to Montreal, then Toronto. As usual, Via Rail lives up to its reputation as the best.
Toronto Moose invasion
Jodie my daughter-in-law picks us up at the train station and delivers us to our hotel. It is while driving through the city, that I notice hundreds of moose, gracing or should I say grazing the sidewalks. These life size moose figures are spectacular. Jodie tells us that 326 moose sculptures are part of the "Moose in the City" event presented by Lobats Blue. Artists are commissioned by sponsors to decorate these creatures.
It is a citywide outdoor art event and contest. The results are fantastic! This moose art will be sold with the money going to charity. The launch was called a "Moose Jam" and a Moose song was written and performed for the event.
Moose Spotting
There are so many things I could focus on and write about in this fascinating city, the world class theatre, the wonderful harbor front beaches and quays, the funky neighborhoods, restaurants and shopping to name just a few. However, this visit I am going to write about moose whom I searched out daily during my visit here. For all you moose spotters in the crowd, Moose can still be seen when least expected in the city.
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