Song of the Restigouche (Campbelton Salmon Festival Theme)

Originally pressed privately in 1972, Song of the Restigouche was written and recorded by Tom Gallant of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, as the official theme song for the Campbellton Salmon Festival in New Brunswick, a beloved annual celebration along the Restigouche River. Though released only in a small regional pressing, the single has endured locally as an anthem of pride and community. More than 50 years later, it continues to hold special meaning, still sung at reunions and community gatherings by multiple generations of New Brunswickers who grew up with its familiar melody. Among those keeping the tradition alive is former Campbellton Mayor Stephanie Anglehart-Paulin (2016–2021), whose high school reunion group will be performing the song together — reflecting the ongoing pride that has made this local anthem a lasting part of Maritime culture.

The song remains a highly collectible artifact of Maritime folk culture.
-Robert Williston

Recorded at Captain Audio, Toronto, 1972