Kayaking on the St. John River can lead to unexpected discoveries, as Melissa Lavigne recently found out. Her routine paddle turned into an eerie encounter with the past when she stumbled upon a headstone and a grave marker, each with its own intriguing story. The first discovery, a weathered headstone, belonged to Ward Byron, born on April 7, 1842, and died on November 24, 1904. What makes this find remarkable is the connection to a passenger on the Mayflower, Edward Byron Winslow, who shared the same name and birth and death dates. The headstone's presence in the river suggests a possible error in its placement or a fascinating tale of a forgotten ancestor. Josh Green, from the Provincial Archives of New Brunswick, speculates that the stone might have been discarded due to a spelling error or design flaw. This discovery raises questions about the river's role in preserving or erasing history. The second discovery, a small silver and gold-colored plaque, marked the grave of Walter F. Blair, born in 1892 and died in 1971. Blair's military and accounting background adds a layer of intrigue to his story. Lavigne's serendipitous finds highlight the river's potential to reveal hidden chapters of Fredericton's history. These discoveries not only provide a glimpse into the lives of these individuals but also prompt reflection on the transient nature of human existence and the enduring impact of our actions. As Lavigne reflects, her kayaking trips have become more than just recreational; they are now a means to uncover the river's secrets and honor the stories of those who came before.
