Newfoundland St. Andrews Society

In the early 1800’s immigration from Scotland to Newfoundland surged. This new group of Scots needed something to preserve their culture, so they sated a group called the Sons of Scotia.  In 1837, they joined some Englishmen and changed their name to the St. George’s and St. Andrew’s Benefit Society. The group formed on February 25, 1837 in Carbonear.

Initially, their goals were to “help its indigent and distressed members, to foster and encourage the love of Scotland and Scottish culture and to promote good relations among its members”. In 1837, the president was Mr. T. Chancey, and the secretary was D. E. Gilmour. This was the first year that we celebrated the Burns Supper, as well. It was held in the Golden Lion Hotel, and presided over by the honourable James Sinclair, who was assisted by James G. Gieve.

For more information on the Newfoundland St. Andrews Society please visit their website.