Antigonish is in the northeast of Nova Scotia, bounded by the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Bay of St. George. It lies just north of the Trans-Canada Highway Route 104, east of New Glasgow and has a population of about 4,000. This town is best known today as the home St Francis Xavier University. In 2023 the highway was twinned to a point east of the community.
The town hosts various cultural events, including the Antigonish Highland Games, one of North America’s oldest continuous Highland games, celebrating Scottish culture and traditions.
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Antigonosh History
The Micmacs were the original inhabitants of Antigonish, who named it either Nalegitkoonechk (Nalegitkoonech or Nalegitkunech), meaning “where branches are torn off” for bears to feed on beech nuts, or Nartigonneich which means “a river of fish with many waters” or “the place where the waters meet,” for the five rivers forking here: West River, South River, Brierly Brook, Wright’s River, and east Wright’s River.
Antigonish County is in the northeast of Nova Scotia, bounded by the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Bay of St. George and was settled by the Acadians in 1759. In 1784 a number of British officers and soldiers received a “Soldiers’ Grant’ and settled on both sides of Antigonish Harbour. Scottish ancestors first settled in Arisaig in the late 1680s and later at St. Andrews. After the American Revolution, groups of Black Loyalists settled in many area of Antigonish County. This town is probably best known today as the home St Francis Xavier University.
For thousands of years before European settlers arrived, the area around Antigonish was inhabited by the Mi’kmaq people who lived off the region’s natural resources on land and sea. The name “Antigonish” is believed to have originated from the Mi’kmaq word “Nalegitkoonechk,” which means “where branches are torn off,” likely referring to the area’s use for gathering tree branches for various purposes.
The first European settlers in the Antigonish area were of Scottish and Irish descent, arriving in the late 1700s, after the Highland Clearances which forced many Scots to emigrate.
The town of Antigonish was officially founded in 1784, with settlers taking advantage of the fertile lands of the Antigonish area for growing crops and livestock. That year, a number of British officers and soldiers received a “Soldiers’ Grant’ and settled on both sides of Antigonish Harbour. After the American Revolution, groups of Black Loyalists settled in many area of Antigonish County.
St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) was established in 1853, originally as a seminary. StFX has grown into a leading Canadian university, and the university has contributed to the town’s educational, cultural, and economic development.
In the 1920s and 1930s, Antigonish became the birthplace of the Antigonish Movement, a cooperative and adult education movement aimed at improving the economic and social conditions of rural communities in Nova Scotia and beyond. The movement promoted the establishment of cooperative enterprises, credit unions, and educational programs and has been adopted in many places around the world.
Throughout the 20th century, Antigonish continued to grow and diversify its economy. While agriculture remained important, other sectors such as education, healthcare, and retail also became significant.
Antigonish Attractions
Antigonish Heritage Museum
20 East Main Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 2E9
(902) 863-6160
Wrbsite
The museum is located in the former CN Rail station. Exhibits depict early days of Antigonish town and county. Special exhibits include: photos, business ledgers, railway artifacts, and an 1864 volunteer fire department pumper. The research library and archives contain extensive genealogical information, including the inventory of pre-1914 heritage homes and buildings in town and county. Open July & August: Mon-Sat 10:00 am-5:00 pm; September-June: Mon-Fri 10:00 am-12:00 pm, 1:00 pm-5:00 pm. Admission free, donations welcome
St. Francis Xavier University Archives
Angus L. MacDonald Library,
St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS B2G 1C0
(902) 867-2201
The main objectives of the Archives are to collect and preserve the university, regional and diocesan records records and make them available to researchers. Open Mon-Fri 1:00 pm-4:30 pm
Antigonish Attractions
Antigonish Arena
30 James Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 1R7
902-863-1469
Website
A local ice rink that hosts hockey games, public skating sessions, and other community events. It’s a hub of activity, especially during the winter months.
Antigonish Casket Building
88 College Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 1X7
902-863-3553
Website
The historic Antigonish Casket Company building, which is now a cultural and community space. The building has a rich history and is an interesting site to visit for those interested in local history.
Antigonish Farmers’ Market
30 James Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 1R7
902-867-7479
Website
A vibrant market offering fresh local produce, handmade crafts, baked goods, and more. It’s a great place to experience the local community and purchase unique items.
Antigonish Golf and Country Club
30 Cloverville Road, Antigonish, NS B2G 2L4
902-863-4797
Website
A scenic 18-hole golf course providing a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. The club also offers a clubhouse with dining facilities.
Antigonish Heritage Museum
20 East Main Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 2E9
902-863-6160
Website
This museum showcases the rich history and heritage of Antigonish through exhibits, artifacts, and archives. It provides insights into the local culture, genealogy, and the history of the area.
Ballantyne’s Cove Bluefin Tuna Interpretive Centre
156 Ballantynes Cove Wharf Road, Ballantynes Cove, NS B2G 2L2 (near Antigonish)
902-863-8162
Website: Ballantyne’s Cove Tuna Interpretive Centre
This center provides information about the Bluefin Tuna and the history of tuna fishing in the region. It features exhibits and displays related to marine life and local fisheries.
Cape George Point Lighthouse
Cape George Point Road, Cape George, NS B2G 2L4 (near Antigonish)
Website
A historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The site includes walking trails and picnic areas, making it a great spot for sightseeing and relaxation.
Columbus Field
274 Main Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 2C4
902-863-4275
Website
A large park and sports field used for various community events, including the Antigonish Highland Games. It’s a central recreational space in the town.
St. Francis Xavier University (StFX)
5005 Chapel Square, Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5
902-863-3300
Website: St. Francis Xavier University
Founded in 1853, StFX is one of Canada’s oldest universities. The campus features beautiful architecture, a historic chapel, and various cultural and educational events open to the public.
St. Ninian’s Cathedral
121 St. Ninian Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 1Y9,
902-863-2338
Website
A stunning Roman Catholic cathedral built in the late 19th century, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate stained glass windows. It is a significant landmark in Antigonish.
Antigonish Festivals
Antigonish Art Fair
Chisholm Park, Antigonish, NS B2G 2C4
902-863-2472
Website
A seasonal event held on Friday evenings during the summer, showcasing local artists, musicians, and food vendors. It’s a lively celebration of the arts and community.
Antigonish Festival of Trees
25 College Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 2L7
902-867-5597
An annual event held in December where local businesses and organizations decorate Christmas trees. The festival includes activities for all ages and is a highlight of the holiday season.
Antigonish Highland Games
274 Main Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 2C4
902-863-4275
Website
One of North America’s oldest continuous Highland Games, held annually in July. The games feature traditional Scottish athletic events, dancing, music, and cultural activities.
Antigonish Natural Attractions
121 St. Ninian Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 1Y9
902-863-2338
Website
A stunning Roman Catholic cathedral built in the late 19th century, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate stained glass windows. It is a significant landmark in Antigonish.
Antigonish Landing Trail
Off Main Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 2G4
902-863-2351
Website
A beautiful walking trail that winds through wetlands, offering scenic views and excellent opportunities for birdwatching. The trail is easily accessible and perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Arisaig Provincial Park
Route 245, Arisaig, NS B2G 2L1 (27 km NE of Antigonish)
902-485-7000
Website
A beautiful coastal park offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Northumberland Strait. Park is known for its fascinating geology and fossils; an interpretive kiosk examines highlights of the four million years of earth history found here. Pleasant 1.5 km walking trail through forest, and to shore access. Geocaching opportunities as well as snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
Cape George Hiking Trail
Cape George, NS B2G 2L4 (near Antigonish)
Phone: N/A
Website
The hiking trail offers a series of connected loops, varying in length and difficulty (total 33 km/20 mi), from the coast through meadows and old-growth forests to cliffs affording spectacular views of the bay, with elevations up to 600ft.The trail offers panoramic views at various points, including Ballantyne’s Cove.
Keppoch Mountain
193 Keppoch Road, Beaver Meadow, NS B2G 2L4 (near Antigonish)
902-318-2486
Website
A recreation area offering year-round outdoor activities, including mountain biking, hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing. It’s a great destination for adventure enthusiasts.
Pomquet Beach Provincial Park
Pomquet Beach Road, Pomquet, NS B2G 2L4 (near Antigonish)
902-662-3030
Website
A popular sandy beach with warm waters, dunes, and boardwalks. The park is ideal for swimming, beachcombing, and birdwatching. Serviced May 20th to October 10th