The Lebanese

Elias Basha was probably the First Lebanese (Syrian) immigrant to this Island, arriving in 1888. Other early immigrants included the ShelFoons who put down their First roots in Tignish, the Solomans who settled in Georgetown and the Sharbells who made their home in Portage.

More immigrants arrived gradually, such as the Zakems who came here in 1936, while others have come almost to the present day. Most by Far chose to settle in Charlottetown.

For those who came to the Island, peddling became a Favourite business venture and most oFthe older people today have vivid memories oF these interesting men who peddled throughout the rural areas on Foot. From peddling, the next move was usually to the corner store in Charlottetown and many 0F these good places oF business dotted the city’s landscape.

When they first came here these immigrants were known as Syrians and only later as Lebanese due to boundary changes in their native land. In general these early immigrants came here with Few work skills, little education and not knowing any English. They

T/Jt’ Za/eem Family 19405.

succeeded extremely well and their descendants have launched out into various occupations.

Most 0F the earlier Lebanese immigrants were oFthe Orthodox Faith. Maybe halFoFthe present-day Lebanese-Canadians here are Maronite Catholics and belong to local parishes. From time to time they have Mass celebrated in Arabic according to the Maronite Rite.

In 1988 the Lebanese community proudly celebrated the 100th anniversary oFits presence on P.E.|.

The Dutch

Most oF the Dutch immigrants came here aFter World War II. Holland aFter1945 was recovering From Five years 0F German occupation and war. The whole country was in considerable chaos and nearly bankrupt. There was an immense housing shortage, a scarcity 0F Farm land and a surplus oFyoung Farmers, all in a population anine million people.

In 1947 the First immigrant ship sailed From Rotterdam with some 0F these passengers destined For P.E.|. Others Followed at intervals. Most oFthem ended up on Farms, their most Favoured location. In Fact, the wide expanse 0F Farm land here was a pleasant surprise and helped to soothe the culture shock which they no doubt Felt at First. AFter 1975 another wave 0F Dutch immigrants came to P.E.I.

In 1958 the Dutch bishops sent Father Van de Ven as permanent chaplain and spiritual adviser to the Dutch immigrants in the Maritimes. He set out immediately to get to know his scattered Flock and proved to be a great blessing For his people. Among other things he helped organize the annual Dutch Day, a major get together For the Roman Catholic immigrants here. He was also instrumental in

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