The Saint John City Market turns 150 this year. To mark the occasion, two local history enthusiasts dove into the provincial archives to uncover the rich past of the building. Connor DeMerchant and Michael Forrestell created a new exhibit called Making the Market. You will find this display online and in person at the market. They recently shared their findings with CBC News.

From Wholesale Hub to Retail Landmark

The market opened in 1876. In its early days, the building served mostly wholesale clients. School cafeterias, orphanages, and hotels bought their supplies in large quantities at the city market. Local grocers also purchased their produce there. Forrestell notes that vendors moved massive volumes of produce during this period.

In 1895, Loyalists George W. Slocum and John D. Ferris opened Slocum and Ferris. This produce shop became a staple of the market. The business changed hands over the decades but remained open until 2024. Forrestell has a deep connection to the shop because his parents owned it for over 30 years.

“I really grew up here,” he said.

The Gritty Years and Radio Fame

The market eventually transitioned into a local retail site. However, the building fell into severe disrepair by the 1930s. DeMerchant explains that people lacked a sense of pride in the market during that era.

“It was a maybe grubby place with sawdust on the floor and blood from the butchers,” he said.

Despite the grime, the market remained a lively community hub. In the 1950s and 60s, actress and singer Marita McNulty hosted a live weekday radio show called Meet Me in the Market. She walked the aisles with a microphone and interviewed vendors about their products. Forrestell says the show became a central part of daily life in Saint John.

A National Historic Site

The city rediscovered the value of the market in the 1980s. The building officially became a national historical site in 1986. This prestigious designation sparked extensive renovations throughout the 1990s. Today, the market stands as a cherished landmark. DeMerchant says the recent pandemic gave residents an even deeper appreciation for the historic space.

“We’re absolutely fortunate that the city market made it through,” he said.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the Saint John City Market open?

The market opened its doors in 1876 and celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2026.

What is the Making the Market exhibit?

Making the Market is a historical display created by Connor DeMerchant and Michael Forrestell. You will find it online or in person at the city market.

Who was Marita McNulty?

Marita McNulty was an actress and singer who hosted a popular live radio show from the market in the 1950s and 60s.

When did the market become a national historic site?

The building received its national historic site designation in 1986.