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Where land meets sea and history runs deep

Rockport is a ruggedly beautiful coastal community in the Tantramar region, where the land meets the sea in a dramatic display of cliffs, coves, and tidal flats. Nestled along the shores of the Cumberland Basin, Rockport has long been defined by its maritime heritage, shipbuilding past, and the enduring strength of the people who call it home.

During the 19th century, Rockport thrived as a centre for shipbuilding and stone quarrying. Its shipyards produced vessels that sailed the world’s oceans, while the local quarries supplied high-quality sandstone for construction projects as far away as Boston and Halifax. The remnants of this industrious past can still be found along the coastline, where old quarry sites and wharf pilings stand as quiet reminders of Rockport’s contribution to regional and international commerce.

Though the era of shipbuilding and large-scale quarrying has passed, Rockport remains closely tied to the natural world. Fishing and agriculture continue to support the local economy, with small farms dotting the landscape and boats heading out into the basin’s waters. The area’s stunning coastal scenery and rich biodiversity make it a haven for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views of the tides, salt marshes, and migratory bird populations.

Rockport’s tight-knit community embraces its history while looking ahead to the future. Generations of families have remained rooted here, drawn to the peacefulness of the landscape and the strong sense of connection among neighbours. With its mix of heritage, industry, and coastal charm, Rockport is a place where history and nature come together—shaped by the past but always moving forward with the tide.

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    Community History

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    1780s

    Rockport’s earliest settlers arrive—fishing, farming, and shipbuilding form the foundation of the economy.

    1840

    Rockport becomes a hub for shipbuilding, with wooden vessels that sail to ports around the world.

    1870s

    Rockport’s high-quality sandstone leads to the expansion of quarrying operations. 

    1891

    The Rockport quarry provides sandstone used in the reconstruction of Canada’s Parliament Buildings.

    1900s

    Decline of shipbuilding and quarrying see the economy shift to farming and fishing.

    Tantramar Communities

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