This information can help you determine significant cultural, ecclesiastical, and political events in the history of Prince Edward Island. Changes in geographical boundaries and ownership of land are especially important in determining where to search for the records of your ancestors.

1534	Jacques Cartier discovered the island, which the Micmac Indians called Abegweit.
1603	Samuel de Champlain claimed the island for France and called it Ile-St-Jean.
1719	Three hundred settlers from France, sponsored by the commercial company of the Count de St-Pierre, established the first colony on the island, Port la Joie, at the entrance to the harbor of Charlottetown.
1745	The French colony was captured by the British.
1748	France regained the lost colony.
1758	The British occupied the island, dispersed many of the French settlers, and renamed it St. John Island.
1763	France ceded the area to Great Britain. It was placed under the jurisdiction of Nova Scotia. Later, the British divided the island into three counties, each with a townsite and 67 lots (townships).
1765	Charlottetown was named the capital of the colony.
1767	The lots were awarded to grantees or proprietors who were expected to promote settlement but who were mainly absentee landlords.
1769	The island separated from Nova Scotia and the first governor was appointed.
1799	The name was changed to Prince Edward Island.
1851	The island had its first representative government.
1864	A meeting was held in Charlottetown to discuss regional union.
1867	The Land Purchase Act ended the tenure system of 1767.
1873	The Province of Prince Edward Island was formed and became part of the Dominion of Canada.