By Aja Rivers
Prince Edward Island is one of four Canadian provinces located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence in the Atlantic Ocean. It is separated from the mainland by the Northumberland Strait. This scenic and quaint island is best known for its role as the birthplace of the Canadian Confederation in 1864 and for the timeless novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery, "Anne of Green Gables."
Government
Prince Edward Island has an elected Legislative Assembly that is responsible for enacting legislation and providing financial supply. There is also an Executive Council (Cabinet) led by the Premier, who decides policy and direction for the government.
Geography
Prince Edward Island is the smallest Canadian Province, with a total land area of 2,184 square miles. Its soil is a rich reddish-brown color because it contains iron oxide, which rusts when exposed to air.
Population
As of 2009, Prince Edward Island has a population of 138,000 spread throughout two cities (Charlottetown is the capital) and seven towns.
Cultural History
Before the Charlottetown Conference in 1864, Prince Edward Island was inhabited for thousands of years by a Mi'kmaq settlement and the Acadians, who hailed from France. Early European settlers were from Scotland, England and Ireland.
Things to Do
Prince Edward Island is a popular tourist spot and is known for its breathtaking beaches, golf courses, shopping, art galleries, theater and museums.
Getting There
Prince Edward Island is easily accessible by plane, automobile, train, bus and ferry. There are also cruise ships that regularly visit. To find out more, visit the PEI Tourism website (see Resources below).
Fun Fact
Prince Edward Island is affectionately known as the "Gentle Island."
Resources
About the Author:
Aja Rivers is a New England native who has been writing professionally for nine years. Her poetry has appeared in "Tiger’s Eye: A Journal of Poetry," "Main Channel Voices" and "The Aurorean." She has an associate's degree in science from Cape Cod Community College and a paralegal certificate from Gloucester County College. Rivers is also a certified all-breed dog groomer.
