New book explores origins of cross-river rivalries

John Vickers' first hard-copy book looks at intriguing aspect of Miramichi's history

John Vickers has self-published his first hard-copy book, Miramichi River Wars, explaining the origins of the long-standing rivalry between Chatham and communities on the Miramichi River’s north side. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)

MIRAMICHI • John Vickers’ curiosity to learn more about cross-river rivalries in the Miramichi area drove him to self-publish a new book about the history of those animosities.

The book, Miramichi River Wars, includes several chapters outlining that history and how it has contributed to the region as we know it today.

Vickers launched the self-published book — his first hard-copy volume — alongside author, historian, and newspaper columnist Andrew MacLean on Aug. 29 at the Beaverbrook Kin Centre.

“When you’re a full-time writer, every day has a similar feel, but it helped to remind myself to stay focused on the bullseye and complete the book,” he said.

“It’s great to shine some light on a part of Miramichi’s history that people may have heard a bit about, but maybe didn’t understand or appreciate the impact those days would have on modern-day Miramichi.”