Parrsboro

Parrsboro, NS, incorporated as a town in 1889, population 1305 (2011c), 1401 (2006c). The Town of Parrsboro, located where the Parrsboro River meets the MINAS BASIN, abounds in Aboriginal and pirate lore. The Mi'kmaq called this the place where Glooscap roamed, awokun ("portage"). By 1776 Partridge I was settled, and ferry service operated to Windsor. The population shifted to the mainland, choosing a name (1784) to honour Gov John Parr. Parrsboro prospered early, through shipbuilding and trade with the West Indies. The Saxby Gale (1869) drove the beach inland, joining Partridge I to the mainland.

Today Parrsboro is the largest town and tourist centre on this Fundy coast, with fishing and lumber boats still braving the famous tides in its harbour. Ottawa House, Sir Charles TUPPER's summer residence, is a museum depicting Parrsboro's maritime heritage. Rockhounds sleuth cliffs and beaches for abundant agate and amethyst. Nearby, prehistoric animal footprints have been discovered.