Rexton

Situated on the scenic Richibucto River, the village now known as Rexton has a rich and layered history. It was originally inhabited by the Mi'kmaq First Nations, whose descendants continue to live in the region today, including those who now live in nearby Elsipogtog First Nation (formerly known as the Big Cove Band).

In the 18th century, Acadian settlers established communities throughout the area, including Bouctouche, Miramichi, and Richibucto Village. English-speaking settlement began with Thomas Powell, who arrived in 1790. Significant colonization followed, particularly by English shipbuilders, Scottish merchants, and Irish immigrants, including Irish Protestants who came to work in the Jardine Shipbuilding Yards, which formed around 1819. In fact, for much of its early history, Rexton was referred to as "The Yard" for this reason.

Land clearing and settlement intensified after a land survey around the 1820s by Mr. Layton in the Molus River area of Weldford Parish. As a result, many settlers were granted land, and the territory of the Elsipogtog First Nation was reduced to its current boundaries. Two ships brought a large wave of Scottish settlers: the Dickies, captained by Simon Graham, and the Isabella, helmed by Captain Thomas Carruthers. Throughout the 19th century, fishing, lumbering, and shipbuilding were thriving industries. In 1850, the first bridge across the Richibucto River was completed, greatly enhancing commerce and regional connectivity.

From roughly 1825 to 1900, the former village of Rexton was called Kingston. Then, in 1901, Kingston was renamed Rexton to avoid confusion with other locations named Kingston, especially Kingston in Kings County, New Brunswick. In 1966, Rexton became an incorporated village of New Brunswick.

Rexton stayed Rexton until January 1, 2023, when it was combined with parts of five local service districts to form the new village of Five Rivers.

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To find out more about the former mayors and councillors who served Rexton from 1966 to 2022, click the links below...