Grande-Digue, a community with a rich Acadian heritage, is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Shediac, 15 minutes from Bouctouche, 20 minutes from Moncton, and about an hour from Kouchibouguac National Park. Many Acadians sought refuge in Grande-Digue after their expulsion in 1755, but they only received land grants in 1791.

The predominant culture in the community is Acadian, and Acadian French is the most commonly spoken language. However, due to the influx of summer tourists and cottagers, almost the entire population is also proficient in English.

Established in 1988, the Pioneers Museum in Grande-Digue was created to meet the community’s demand for a place to preserve their artifacts.

The first building was a chapel in memory of the one built in 1788 near the coast. Then the museum acquired and renovated a school (1880), a barn (1890) and a lighthouse (1912).

 

These heritage buildings allow it to preserve and display the artifacts of our pioneers. The pioneers were Acadians who, 20 years after the Great Uprising of 1755, were still looking for land to settle. 

The Historical Society of Grande-Digue Inc. was founded and incorporated in 1978. 

The Church of the Visitation is probably the oldest wooden church still being used in New Brunswick. The famous church bell (named Mary), weighing 1,351 lbs., was purchased in 1865.  

Grande-Digue is encircled by rivers that boast some of the warmest waters in the North Atlantic. Its appeal as a popular summer vacation destination is enhanced by activities such as boat trips, kayak rentals, windsurfing, swimming, and beach hiking.

The parish of Grande-Digue is officially twinned with the parish of Saint James, Louisiana. 

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