Another possible date for when it was written is 1873. It was first believed that Newfoundland would join Confederation in 1869, but it was not the last time it was suggested. In 1873 Prince Edward Island join the Dominion of Canada. And in that year talks were efforting for Newfoundland to join Confederation too. In the Halifax Morning Herald, these talks sounded very positive for a total Atlantic union.

Fathers of Confederation

However, in the end, Newfoundland declined. It was also the year that Joseph Howe died. Though unlikely, Fenerty might have been referring to the talks in 1873. Another possibility is that the asterisk was added later. In the Stewart script, Fenerty made additions to and edited previously published works. Or, just simply edited the footnote by saying, "The late Joseph Howe," instead of just "Joseph Howe." Charles Fenerty was a Nova Scotian - leaning towards the views of Joseph Howe as an Anti-Confederate - but he did see great hope for a united Canada. In the end, "Her Majesty’s ancient and loyal colony" did rule the Confederation. In 1949 Newfoundland became the tenth and final province to join.

Download Poem (PDF) - click here