While it is obvious why the Canal would require Stone Masons, Blacksmiths and Laborers, it is not so clear why there would be a need for carpenters. However, in Daniel Hoard’s work crew assigned to the Deep Cut area between Lakes Micmac and Charles in the community we now know as Port Wallace, there were no fewer than ten carpenters. Three of whom were named John – John Beggs, John Whelan and John Wolfe. Might one of these be a relative of yours? When the first canal attempt failed in 1831 it is very likely these folks found work in the community and may have had a hand in the construction of some of the houses we still see standing on both sides of our harbour.
-Bernie Hart