How did absentee landlords create problems for Prince Edward Island settlers?

The premise that absentee landlords created specific, detailed problems for settlers is historically accurate, as the land tenure system established in 1767 significantly hindered the development of Prince Edward Island.

Following the British survey of the island, 64 lots of approximately 20,000 acres each were awarded to proprietors by ballot. These individuals were expected to promote settlement; however, because many were absentee landlords who did not reside on the island, the system created a century of instability and conflict for those attempting to farm the land.1

This controversial land tenure system prevented settlers from having secure ownership of the property they worked, creating long-term economic and social friction. The issue persisted until the passage of the Land Purchase Act of 1875, which finally ended the system by allowing the government to purchase lands from foreign proprietors and resell them to resident farmers.1