Cupids, Newfoundland, is founded
Map of Newfoundland, 1620. Memorial University of Newfoundland, F 1122 M28 1620
1610
In 1610, Bristol merchant John Guy and a boatload of settlers established a colony on the north side of Conception Bay on Newfoundland’s Avalon Peninsula. It was the first English settlement in what became Canada, and the second permanent English settlement in North America, after Jamestown, Virginia, established three years earlier. Cupids was the birthplace of the first English child born in Canada and the first seat of a European-style government in Newfoundland. Today, Cupids is an important archaeological site and tourist attraction.
Each day for 150 days leading up to the opening of the Canadian History Hall, we’re presenting one moment among the many that have shaped our country. Discover more of Canada’s significant historical events in the new Canadian History Hall, opening July 1, 2017.