Originally, Saint John had a special setup for representation in Parliament.

The City of Saint John itself returned one member, and the entire County of Saint John (including the city) returned one as well, and two between 1872 and 1896.

After 1914, the counties of Saint John and Albert were joined, and the riding was known as St. John—Albert.

In 1966, Albert County was moved to the Fundy—Royal riding and the district became known as Saint John—Lancaster.

This riding elected the following members of Parliament: By-election: On Mr. Tilley being appointed Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick, 15 November 1873 By-election: On Mr. Tilley being appointed Minister of Finance, 17 October 1878 By-election: On Mr. Tilley being appointed Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick, 12 November 1885 By-election: On Mr. Blair's resignation, 27 December 1903