Cocagne, New Brunswick, is a charming Canadian community that boasts a rich history and stunning geography. Once part of an eponymous local service district (LSD), Cocagne later became an incorporated rural community in Kent County, New Brunswick. Today, it is part of the rural community of Beausoleil.
Cocagne's name is derived from Cockaigne, a mythical paradise in medieval French literature. The community is situated at the mouth of the Cocagne River on the Northumberland Strait. The Mi'kmaq name for the area, as identified by William Francis Ganong, is Wijulmacadie, which refers to a plant found along the river.
In 1866, Cocagne was a farming community with approximately 65 families. By 1871, the population of the community and surrounding district had grown to 900. By 1898, Cocagne had become a sub-port of entry with a population of 250. The community has had a post office branch since 1837.
On 1 January 2023, Cocagne amalgamated with all or part of six LSDs to form the new rural community of Beausoleil. Despite this, the name Cocagne remains in official use, as do the names of other communities within the former rural community.
Cocagne is located around the mouth of the Cocagne River in Cocagne Bay. It is situated at the crossroads of Route 535 and Route 134, and also marks the northern terminus of Route 530. The community's unique location offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of New Brunswick.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Cocagne had a population of 2,757 living in 1,214 of its 1,430 total private dwellings. This represented a change of 4.1% from its 2016 population of 2,649. With a land area of 69.23 km2 (26.73 sq mi), Cocagne had a population density of 39.8/km2 (103.1/sq mi) in 2021.
Cocagne, New Brunswick, is a community that beautifully blends history and nature. Whether you're a history buff or a nature lover, Cocagne offers something for everyone.
