Carl Howe was born in Devon, on Fredericton’s Northside, to Estella (Hudlin) and Ernest Howe. A natural athlete, he excelled in multiple sports, competing for the Devon School Track Team, the Fredericton High Rugby Team, the New Brunswick Army Headquarters Hockey Team, and both the Fredericton Junior and Senior Track Teams. In 1947, he was part of the championship-winning team at the Canadian Relay Championships.
Beyond athletics, Howe was a talented musician. He played with the Golden Bel-Aires and spent 12 years performing with the Royal Canadian Artillery Militia Band.
In 1965, he opened Carl’s Cycle Service, becoming a well-respected small business owner. He also taught small engine repair for the Department of Education and worked in insurance and monument sales.
A dedicated community leader,Carl Howe was actively involved in the Christian Business Men’s Committee of Fredericton, served as president of the Fredericton chapter of Camp Gideon International, and sat on the Board of Directors of Fredericton’s Wesleyan Church.
Motivated by community concerns about discrimination, Howe decided to run for Fredericton City Council, advocating for equal representation. His campaign was built on the principle:
“Carl Howe believes everyone should have a voice in government—not just a select group.”
In 1971, he made history as the first Black man elected to Fredericton City Council, serving from 1971 to 1978. Through his leadership, advocacy, and commitment to fairness, Carl Howe left a lasting impact on his city and community.
Image: Courtesy of the Provincial Archives of NB
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