Membertou First Nation facts for kids
The Membertou First Nation (in their language, Mi'kmawi'simk: Maupeltu) is a Mi'kmaq First Nation community. They are located in the area called Unama'ki, which is also known as Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. As of 2012, about 814 Mi'kmaq people live on their reserve, and around 481 live off-reserve. Membertou also has its own radio station, CJIJ-FM. Today, Membertou is known as one of the most successful First Nations in Atlantic Canada.
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A Look at Membertou's History
The Membertou First Nation community is mostly located in an urban area. The community is named after a very important leader, Grand Chief Henri Membertou (who lived from 1510 to 1611). The Membertou First Nation is part of the larger Mi'kmaq Nation.
Membertou was not always in its current spot. Many years ago, the community (then called the Kings Road Reserve) was located near Kings Road, right by the Sydney Harbour. In 1916, the community was asked to move. Then, in 1926, the Membertou Community officially moved to where it is today, close to Mira Road, Nova Scotia. This was a big change for the people living there.
Growing the Membertou Community
The Membertou First Nation has done a great job at building up its economy. They have many successful businesses, including a convention centre, a gaming centre, a gas station, a business centre, and a hotel. These businesses help create jobs and opportunities within the community.
In 2016, the Membertou Sports and Wellness Centre opened. This modern facility has a YMCA and two ice rinks that are the same size as those used in the NHL (National Hockey League). It's a great place for sports and activities.
Right now, a new business area called Seventh Exchange is being built. It is located across from the Highway 125 interchange. This new area will have large stores and other shops, similar to big shopping areas you might see elsewhere.
Important People from Membertou
Many notable people have come from the Membertou First Nation:
- Lawrence Paul - He was a former chief, or leader, of the Membertou First Nation.
- Donald Marshall, Jr. - He was a well-known Mi'kmaq activist who worked for justice.
- Donald Marshall, Sr. - He was a former Grand Chief, a very important leader for the Mi'kmaq people.
- Glen Gould - He is an actor, musician, and comedian.
- Daniel Christmas - He was a former senator, which means he was a member of Canada's Parliament.
- Noel Doucette - He was a former Chief of the Potlotek First Nation. Even though he led a different community, he grew up in Membertou.
- Rita Joe - She was a famous Mi'kmaq poet and songwriter.
- Charlie Herney - He was a member of the Mi’kmaq Grand Council for over 30 years. He also served as the Putu's for 18 years, which is a key role in the Mi'kmaq Grand Council.
The Land of Membertou First Nation
The Membertou First Nation is made up of four different land areas. Here is a look at these parts:
| Community | Area | Location | Population | Date established |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caribou Marsh 29 | 219.3 hectares (542 acres) | 8 km. southwest of Sydney | 0 | April 28, 1882 |
| Malagawatch 4 (1/5 share) | 661.3 hectares (1,634 acres) | 62 km. southwest of Sydney | 0 | August 2, 1833 |
| Membertou 28B | 103.6 hectares (256 acres) | 1.6 km. south of Sydney | 1,103 | August 31, 1925 |
| Sydney 28A | 5.1 hectares (13 acres) | 1.6 km. northeast of Sydney | 0 | September 7, 1921 |
