Fairville (St. John) As It Is And Was - In 1857 our efforts at civilization were observed by a shoemaker named James SKIFFINGTON who soon started business. His venture proved successful; he met with opposition the year following when James HENNESSY commenced in the trade. In 1859 the village was christened. About 1861 J. DeWolf SPURR erected an oil factory at Spurr Cove; It was in 1861 also when Andre CUSHING & Sons erected their extensiv saw mills at Union Point; In 1862 William GRIFFITH, Sr. opened a blacksmith shop, now conducted by his son, William; Five years late, Thomas STEWART followed in the same line until he sold out to William LYONS who continues the business. (see original)