The thesis by Ian Johnston examines the issue of a fixed link between Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick in the context of federal-provincial relations. It focuses primarily on the political issues and decisions made in the four principal intervals of discussion: 1885-1896, 1905-1917, 1956-1970 and 1985-1995.

This thesis was submitted by Ian Johnston in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Master of Arts Degree in Atlantic Canada at St. Mary's University.

The collection consists of one tunnel stamp used in the campaign for the building of a tunnel between P.E.I. and the mainland.

By the terms of Confederation the federal government was to ensure "continuous communication" between Prince Edward Island and the mainland. Up to 1885 this had been inadequately provided by the steamer "Northern Light" which gave way when the ice became too thick to the ice boat service. In the mid 1880s, spearheaded by Senator George Howlan, a campaign was begun for a subway or tunnel under the Northumberland Strait. The issue faded with the election of 1887 and the coming of the "S.S. Stanley" only to resurface for the election of 1891 with the realization that the new steamer was also subject to frequent breakdowns. In spite of vigorous campaigning which included a tunnel ticket, tunnel stamp, and tunnel button, election promises once again gave way to financial expediency. Lobbying continued through the years until, with the end of World War I, icebreaker design had succeeded in establishing an "all-weathr, all- winter steamship service. The dream of a fixed crossing was laid to rest - for a time!