Our Maine Street's Aroostook Issue 2 : Fall 2010 | Page 61
Nestled along the shores of the St. John River,
Van Buren is known as the “Gateway to the St. John
River Valley” and is a main port of entry to St. Leonard,
New Brunswick, Canada. A port of entry to Grand Falls,
Canada is also located in the town of Hamlin.
This French Acadian Community was settled in 1790,
by Acadians who had been displaced from St. Anne-DesPays-Bas, Fredricton, New Brunswick, Canada. The early
name of the town was Violette Settlement, but in 1881 the
town was renamed for President Martin Van Buren.
Life is pleasant here and whether it is summer or
winter, numerous recreational activities are available. The
St. John River, the longest river in Maine, offers a sea plane
port and boat landing facility from May 15 to October 1.
Summer finds residents living at Van Buren Cove on
Long Lake enjoying boating, water skiing, swimming and
fishing. Van Buren Recreation Summer Programs conduct
some of its swimming activities at the cove’s public beach.
The cottages can be rented from local residents.
Split Cedar Trail Network is a multi-use trail
used by bikers, hikers, walkers, and ATVers, and has well
groomed cross country sk