North Rustico, a charming town nestled in Queens County, Prince Edward Island, is a Canadian gem that boasts a rich history and vibrant tourism scene. Known affectionately as "The Crick" by locals and visitors alike, North Rustico is a community that has grown from a small village into a bustling town since its incorporation in 1954.
The origins of North Rustico date back to around 1790 when it was founded near a small natural harbor along the Gulf of St. Lawrence coast. Initially, it was home to Acadian populations who had escaped British capture and deportation during the Seven Years' War. However, the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries saw an influx of English, Scottish, and Irish settlers.
The town's name, Rustico, is derived from Rassicot, one of the first settlers from France. A significant historical landmark in the area is the Farmers' Bank of Rustico in nearby South Rustico. Founded under the leadership of Father Georges-Antoine Belcourt, it received Royal Assent for its act of incorporation at the Court of Windsor on April 7, 1864. This bank is often considered the first community-based bank in Canada and was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1959.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, North Rustico had a population of 648 people living in 321 of its 386 total private dwellings. This represented a 5% increase from its 2016 population of 617. With a land area of 2.64 km2 (1.02 sq mi), the town had a population density of 245.5/km2 (635.7/sq mi) in 2021.
North Rustico is a popular destination for tourists, offering a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy sea kayaking, cycling, walking, deep-sea fishing, skating, boating, and hiking. The town is also famous for its Canada Day celebration every year on July 1. This event attracts over 10,000 people and includes festivities in the park, a parade down main street, a boat parade on Rustico Harbour, and a fireworks display over the bay.
Like other Maritime provinces, North Rustico's weather can be somewhat unpredictable. Winter temperatures range from -3 to -11 degrees, while Autumn and Spring temperatures vary from 8 to 22 degrees. Summer temperatures hover around 20 degrees, making it an ideal time for tourists to explore the town's outdoor activities.
