Linking the Islands
Souris has always been a friendly seaside town. It is a gateway to Quebec for the ferry that sails to and from Îles-de-la-Madeleines. The “Maggies” are located about halfway between Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland. Though there had been freight transport for several years, the first-ever ferry service was launched in 1971 linking Souris and Cap aux Meules, increasing tourism in both locations. The original ferry carried 45 cars and 300 passengers; today’s ferry carries 300 cars and 1,500 passengers.
Dr. Gus
Souris has had more than its share of extraordinary citizens over the years, but perhaps none as beloved as Dr. Augustine (Gus) MacDonald. Though his office was in his house, he mostly traveled to his patients’ homes by horse and carriage and performed surgeries on their kitchen tables, often with only a kerosene lamp for light. Like most country doctors at the time, Dr. Gus rarely received payment for his services. In fact, just before his death he instructed his accountant to write PAID beside every patient’s name.
A Name with a Tale
Morgan the Mouse is the mascot for the Town of Souris. But townsfolk didn’t always feel so warm and fuzzy about the little rodents. In fact, in 1724, the first of several plagues of mice overran the area and destroyed all the crops before throwing themselves into the sea. The captain of a boat entering the harbour dubbed it souris – the French word for mouse. A local farmer described how the mice terrorized his cat by rising on their hind legs, setting their teeth and squealing fiercely.
Souris Show Hall
Discover the charm of the Souris Show Hall, an historic theatre operated in eastern PEI since 1891. With 150 cozy seats, this intimate venue showcases music and theatre performances from the Atlantic region’s vibrant arts scenes. A dedicated team of volunteers is working hard to restore and reanimate this historic building. With newly updated lighting and sound as well as air conditioning, the venue offers a lovely evening out, right in the heart of Souris.