The founding cultures
New Brunswick's history is marked by the complex interaction between diverse peoples and cultures, including First Nations, Acadians, Scottish, Irish and English.
By visiting these 5 galleries, you will discover how these people arrived in New Brunswick, their history and their interactions.
First Nations Gallery
New Brunswick is home to the Mi'kmaq in the north and east, the Wolastoqey along the St. John River valley, and the Peskotomuhkati in the St. Croix River watershed.
They have a deep-rooted history and presence in these lands long before the arrival of European settlers. Over time, these peoples interacted with European settlers, exchanging knowledge, goods, and ideas.
Acadian Gallery
The Acadians are descendants of French colonists who settled in Canada's Maritime provinces, particularly Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. In the 18th century, the Great Deportation was a key moment in their history, when the British expelled the Acadians from their lands due to political and territorial disputes. Some Acadians settled in other parts of Canada, notably Quebec and Louisiana, while others eventually returned to the Maritime provinces.
Irish Gallery
Many Irish emigrated to New Brunswick during the Great Potato Famine between 1845 and 1852. They first settled in the Saint John and Miramichi regions, then migrated to other regions including the north of the province.
Scottish Gallery
The Scots arrived in New Brunswick during the Highland and Lowland Clearances between 1710 and 1850. They settled in the Restigouche Valley and along Chaleur Bay as far as Miscou Island.
English Gallery
The English, as a whole, had a considerable influence on the development of New Brunswick as a British colony and later as a nation.
Although the presence of the English was closely linked to the military and the war, several families came to settle in search of a better life.
