Coldbrook, a suburban community nestled in Kings County, Nova Scotia, Canada, is a charming blend of history and modern living. As of the 2021 census, this quaint community is home to 1,206 residents.
The history of Coldbrook is as rich as the soil that nurtures its apple orchards. The area was initially known as "Colebrook," named after a community in Wales. However, the arrival of the Windsor and Annapolis Railway in 1869 marked a significant shift, and the village was renamed Cold Brook Station.
The railway's arrival spurred the growth of two saw mills and a large apple export warehouse built in 1908. The late 1920s saw the establishment of a bulk oil depot for White Rose Gasoline. In 1946, the United Fruit Companies apple growers co-op constructed a pair of large warehouses and a processing plant in Coldbrook. This plant later transformed into the Scotian Gold Co-operative plant in 1957, which continues to be a significant employer with its plant and retail store.
In March 1990, Coldbrook became the "end of track" for the Dominion Atlantic Railway when the line abandoned all of its tracks west of Coldbrook. Rail service ended completely in 1993, marking the end of an era.
The 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada provides a detailed snapshot of the demographics of Coldbrook. The community is divided into two parts: Coldbrook part A and Coldbrook part B.
Coldbrook part A had a population of 233 living in 112 of its 112 total private dwellings, a change of -2.9% from its 2016 population of 240. With a land area of 2.18 km2 (0.84 sq mi), it had a population density of 106.9/km2 (276.8/sq mi) in 2021.
Coldbrook part B, on the other hand, had a population of 973 living in 388 of its 399 total private dwellings, a change of -5.1% from its 2016 population of 1,025. With a land area of 4.94 km2 (1.91 sq mi), it had a population density of 197.0/km2 (510.1/sq mi) in 2021.
Together, Coldbrook part A and B had a combined population of 1,206 in 2021, marking a -4.6% decrease compared to the combined population from 5 years prior.
Coldbrook, Nova Scotia, with its rich history and vibrant community, offers a unique blend of past and present, making it a fascinating place to visit or call home.
