A manganite-bearing quartz vein was discovered on the south bank of the river in 1842 and that same year the Gloucester Mining Association shipped 125 tons of manganese ore to England.
It was a decisive moment in Tetagouche history as families chose between returning to their native countries, moving to another mining town, or staying to adapt and become full-time farmers.
In 1904, the incorporation of Bathurst Electric and Water Power Company Limited was formed by Act of Assembly leading to the early construction of a hydro-electric plant further downriver at Tetagouche Bridge.
The endeavor helped to accelerate the town of Bathurst into the modern age; the hydro-electric dam at Tetagouche Falls was the first of its kind in New Brunswick.
However, over the years, ice and erosion has washed away the vulnerable center portion of the dam leaving only the side walls, piping, and the remains of one of the turbines.