W. O. (William Odber) Raymond
Glimpses of the Past: History of the River St. John, A.D. 1604-1784
"Glimpses of the Past: History of the River St. John, A.D. 1604-1784" by Rev. W. O. Raymond is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the history of the River St. John region, focusing on significant events and peoples from the time of its discovery in the early 17th century up to the arrival of the Loyalists in the late 18th century. It primarily delves into the lives of the Indigenous populations, particularly the Maliseets, and examines the impact of European exploration and colonization on these native peoples and their environment. At the start of the book, Raymond shares his personal connection to the River St. John, detailing the charm he finds in the history of its surrounding communities. He introduces the Maliseets as the primary Indigenous group living along the River St. John before European colonization. The beginning discusses their way of life, their connection to the land, and their encounters with early European explorers. The narrative highlights how the arrival of white settlers slowly changed the landscape and the lives of the Maliseets, leading to conflicts and cultural transformations that marked the region's history.