History

Roma’s Legacy Unveiled at Three Rivers National Historic Site

Step back in time and imagine the year 1732. Picture the rugged coastlines of Prince Edward Island, then known as Isle St. Jean. A brave and visionary Frenchman named Jean Pierre Roma and his crew of settlers, fishermen, and workers arrive at Brudenell Point with dreams of prosperity and international trade. This is the beginning of Trois Rivières, PEI’s first commercial fishing settlement—a story of ambition, struggle, and resilience.

The Adventurous Beginnings

Jean Pierre Roma wasn’t just any settler; he was a man with a grand vision. Granted exclusive rights by King Louis XV, Roma and his company, Compagnie de l’Est de l’Isle St. Jean, set out to establish not just a fishing community but a bustling hub of international trade. The ambitious plan was to create a five-cornered trade network between Isle St. Jean, Québec, Louisbourg, France, and the West Indies. Imagine ships loaded with fish, lumber, and agricultural produce setting sail from Trois Rivières, returning with sugar, molasses, coffee, and other goods.

The Challenges and Triumphs

Yet, as with any grand endeavor, Roma faced numerous challenges. From the outset, the settlers had to clear dense forests, remove thousands of tree stumps, and construct buildings from scratch. They built roads, jetties, and even tapped shoreline springs for water. Despite the relentless work and occasional conflicts with partners and clergy, Roma’s meticulous planning and sheer determination kept the settlement afloat.

Over the years, the settlement expanded with impressive infrastructure. There were nine significant buildings, including houses for settlers, officers, and tradesmen, storage facilities, a forge, a stable, and a bakery. They cultivated fields, planted gardens, and even brewed beer. Life at Trois Rivières was not just about hard work; Roma ensured that his settlers had moments of joy with singing, dancing, and feasting.

Visit Roma

Intrigued by Roma’s story? There’s so much more to discover! Head over to the Events and Experiences section of our website to learn about upcoming activities and immerse yourself in the rich history of Trois Rivières. Plan your visit to the Three Rivers National Historic Site and walk in the footsteps of Jean Pierre Roma and his resilient settlers.

Unveil the legacy. Relive the history. Adventure awaits at Roma!

The Sudden End

Just as Roma’s dream was beginning to flourish, disaster struck. In 1745, amidst the backdrop of the War of the Austrian Succession, a British warship arrived at Trois Rivières. With orders to destroy and capture all French inhabitants, the soldiers ravaged the settlement. Roma, along with his family and a few servants, watched helplessly from the woods as their 13 years of hard work went up in flames. The settlement was destroyed, and the dream was shattered.

Rediscovering Roma’s Legacy

Today, the Three Rivers National Historic Site stands as a testament to Roma’s vision and perseverance. It’s a place where history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and families can step back in time and relive the adventurous spirit of the early settlers. The site offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the remains of the original buildings and the meticulous planning that went into creating Trois Rivières.