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Saint John City Market

The original city market was located on the ground floor of a wooden building in Market Square which also served as the city hall, court house and jail. This structure was nearly fourty years old in 1836 when Common Council appointed a committee to seek plans for a new facility.

Once again John Cunningham was the successful applicant. Tenders were called in 1837, the old building was torn down and construction eventually begun on the new market in 1838. Like its predecessor, the Market House was located in Market Square near the docks and commercial outlets. A country and fish market was situated in the basement and a butcher's market on the first floor. Despite these expanded facilities, the new building conformed to the plan of most pre 1870 British North American markets by combining this function with other civic services. Most of these were located on the second floor and included a watch house, police and other public offices.

It has always been one of the busiest places in Saint John. It is a great place to buy fresh fish, meat, and other agricultural goods. It is also a place to check out the local arts and crafts scene.

Did You Know? The ringing of the Market Bell every morning and evening, a tradition at the Old City Market, signals opening and closing of the day's business. Today the keeper of that tradition is the Deputy Market Clerk who oversees day to day affairs.
	Did You Know? The roof of the City Market is built like a ship's keel, turned upside down... paying homage to our Marine Heritage!

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All pages © Heritage Resources and New Brunswick Community College - Saint John.