Residents of Savage Harbour Narrow Down Community Name Options

UPDATE: Residents of Savage Harbour on P.E.I.‘s North Shore have just revealed a new top-five list of options for their community name amid ongoing discussions about renaming. The community was scheduled to vote on the final name at a meeting last night, but opted for further consultation to ensure a more inclusive process.

This initiative stems from a national campaign to address place names considered outdated or offensive. The name “Savage Harbour” has drawn attention, prompting emotional responses from locals who feel a deep connection to their community identity. “We feel passionate about our community name. It’s the name that we use kind of as our own identity. So people are… sad about losing that,” said Stephanie Compton, a resident and member of the Geographical Naming Advisory Committee.

The latest list of proposed names includes:
– Heritage Harbour
– Seaside Harbour
– Shoal Harbour
– Wild Harbour
– Wild Winds Harbour

These options replace previous suggestions like Danger Bay and Northside, reflecting a more positive representation of the area. Compton noted that the revised list better resonates with community values and identity.

The renaming process has been extensive, with the provincial government conducting community meetings this fall to gather input. “People felt that maybe they couldn’t vote with their heart when they were using the public ballot, and there was a limited amount of time for discussion,” Compton explained, emphasizing the community’s desire for a more heartfelt voting process.

Compounding the emotional weight of this decision, last year saw the federal government rename the nearby wharf to Crowbush Cove Wharf Small Craft Harbour without local consultation, leading to strong negative feelings among residents. Compton highlighted the importance of community involvement this time around, stating, “We wanted to change that for this [process].”

Ryan Pineau, the provincial tax commissioner and representative on the Geographical Names Board of Canada, echoed these sentiments, affirming that names hold deep personal significance for residents. “We wanted to ensure that they had every opportunity to put their input into that new name going forward,” Pineau said.

Additionally, the bay itself will also undergo a name change, with options including the five proposed community names alongside three more: Canavoy Bay, Danger Bay, and North Canavoy Bay. The renaming of Savage Harbour Road will follow after the community and bay names are finalized. Pineau mentioned that the final vote is likely to occur in January 2024, although a specific date has yet to be announced.

This process highlights the community’s desire for ownership and connection to their place names, as they navigate a complex history intertwined with identity and heritage. As discussions continue, residents remain hopeful for a name that will honor their past while reflecting a more inclusive future.

Stay tuned for further updates as Savage Harbour prepares for its pivotal vote in January. The community is eager to see how these changes will shape their identity moving forward, making this a significant moment for residents.