The bend in the Petitcodiac River that curves into a u-shape is a recognizable feature for residents of Moncton, Dieppe, and Riverview. Back in the 19th century, this particular section of the river was known as Outhouse Point, a name that held more historical significance than one might assume.
Before bridges spanned the river’s width, Outhouse Point served as a crucial crossing point for travelers needing to move between Moncton and Riverview. Simon Outhouse and his family played a pivotal role in this transportation link by operating a boat that shuttled people back and forth across the river like a ferry service.
As historian James Upham explained, the family’s association with the ferry service led to the spot being commonly referred to as Outhouse Point. The Outhouse family’s influence even extended to having a lighthouse named after them, which stood on the point until the 1950s.
A 19th-century map details the ferry route, showing the departure point from Moncton near Bore Park. The ferry service operated by the Outhouse family was far from the modern ferries we know today, with wooden boats initially requiring manual rowing before later versions incorporated motors.
Upham highlighted the perilous nature of this mode of travel, noting that passengers had to brave the river’s currents in small boats, often paddling or rowing their way across. The risky journey meant individuals had to entrust their safety to the expertise of the boat operators for a brief but nerve-wracking crossing.
To learn more about the history of Outhouse Point, interested individuals can listen to James Upham’s exploration of the site. Upham, the Roadside History columnist, delves into the intriguing past of Riverview’s Outhouse Point, shedding light on its lesser-known historical significance.