Step back in time to when Charlottetown’s Connaught Square (later renamed Pownal Square) housed one of the Island’s most infamous landmarks: Harvey’s Brig. Built in the 1830s, this formidable structure served as a jail for a remarkable 80 years, a witness to some of Prince Edward Island’s most fascinating and turbulent moments.
The jail’s nickname, Harvey’s Brig, is said to have come from an early jailer, Harvey, whose no-nonsense reputation and strict rule were the talk of the town. Tales abound of the local mischief-makers and petty criminals who passed through its doors.
One infamous case involved a group of prisoners who reportedly attempted an escape, only to be thwarted by Harvey himself. Legend has it that the jailer’s quick thinking and firm hand earned him the grudging respect of the community—and the miscreants he locked up. The brig, while unyielding, was also known for being overcrowded and less than comfortable, painting a vivid picture of justice in the 19th century.
In its time, Harvey’s Brig held petty criminals, local troublemakers, and even those accused of more serious crimes awaiting trials or sentencing. Justice in the 1800s was harsh, and punishments like public whippings or branding were not uncommon. The brig stood as a stern reminder of the rule of law in a growing city.
Overcrowding was a persistent issue, as the jail was relatively small and not designed to accommodate a growing population. This led to calls for better facilities, which eventually resulted in the construction of a new jail in 1911.
Though the building is long gone, its legacy adds an intriguing chapter to the history of PEI’s capital city. A snapshot of life from a bygone era, it reminds us of how much our towns—and justice systems—have transformed over the centuries.
Next time you stroll through Pownal Square, imagine Harvey’s Brig, the bustling square of the 1830s and the echoes of the past that still linger.
The Annekenstein Monster 