Halifax: August 27, 1912 <<< >>> Victoria: October 17, 1912
| Today's Statistics: | Travelling from Grand Falls, New Brunswick, to St. Andre, Quebec | |||
| Distance: 222 km | Driving Hours: 4 h | Fuel: 53 l | Weather Cloudy | Temperature: Min. 12 Max. 20 |
After a much deserved rest in Grand Falls (John Nicol stayed at the Mont Assomption bed and breakfast - a converted boys' school), the Findlays and John said goodbye to the maritimes and "bonjour" to Quebec. Their travels today took them north along the St. John River, scenic Lac Temiscouata, and on to the mouth of the St. Lawrence. For the first time since leaving Halifax they travelled on the Trans-Canada Highway, as there was no other route through to Quebec. This portion of the St. John River forms the border between Canada and the U.S.A. so the travellers had a beautiful view of the countryside of the state of Maine.
At each stop along the way interested Quebecois came to inspect the Reo and its passengers. Perhaps the most interesting of these was Phil Latullippe, who has run across Canada 3 times to raise money for handicapped children. His most recent run was in 1989 at the age of 70. Phil and his wife enjoyed chatting with fellow cross-Canada adventurers.
Toward the end of the day's drive, the road led down a steep hill and came out to the edge of the magnificent St. Lawrence River near the town of Notre Dame du Portage. It was here that, many years ago, the natives would paddle their canoes across the river (19 km) and then portage over the hill to trade with the settlers living in Maine. As the Findlays enjoyed the view, a neighbour came from across the street to chat and explain all the sights they were seeing.
Finally, after a very nice day's drive, the Reo arrived at St. Andre just as Wilby and Haney had done 85 years ago. The town has many beautiful old homes and inns that have stood for 150 years or more. As the Reo made its way through town people smiled, waved and honked as they admired the old car. At one point a group of people at a birthday party came out and had a good visit with the Findlays. They laughed and sang "For he's a Jolly Good Fellow" when Lorne cranked the Reo to start the motor. It was lots of fun for all who were present and left the Findlays feeling most welcome on this, their first day in "La Belle Province."
Lorne Findlay and Phil Latulippe -70 year old cross-Canada adventurers
... Welcome to Quebec
On this day in 1912 ...