Human Stories
The Town of Bridgewater and its surrounding villages in Lunenburg County have produced many legendary characters over the years. Their stories provide us with a glimpse into what life was like along the Atlantic Coast in a time that spanned the age of wood, wind, and sail, as well as the rapidly industrializing world.
Click the names below to explore the stories behind some of Bridgewater's best known individuals, organizations, and locales:
Robert Dawson, the Entrepreneur
Dr. Ernst, the Real Estate Tycoon
Jumbo Oxner, the Merchant of Bridgewater
Dr. Frank Davis, the Politician
W.T. Ritcey, the Man with the Vision
The Little Fire Brigade That Could
History of the Bridgewater Tennis Club
Fletcher Wade, the Railway King
Milestones for Bridgewater
The Town of Bridgewater has certainly grown over time. It began as a rural, inland trading stop in the early 1800s, grew to become the de facto shiretown of Lunenburg County by 1900, and is now the professional and essential service hub of the South Shore.
Check out the links below to learn about some of the community's noteworthy "firsts," and take a look at some of the more significant architectural heritage that can be found throughout the neighbourhoods:
Click here for Bridgewater's Noteworthy Firsts
Landmarks
Bridgewater's Historic Landmarks
This pamphlet was produced by the Heritage Advisory Committee and the DesBrisay Museum to aid in learning about historic homes, churches, streetscapes, cemeteries, and industrial structures found in the community.
An Historic Walking Tour
Take 35 minutes and walk through Bridgewater's oldest neighbourhoods to witness some of the wonderful 19th century and early 20th century architecture.
A Pleasant Walking Tour
Take 45 minutes and stroll down Pleasant Street and take note of its 19th century and early 20th century architecture.
