The Acadian Comeback

A typical Nova Scotia house  and yard with a very typical Acadian star.

Before the Canada trip I knew about the Expulsion of the Acadian population of thousands "French Neutrals" from Acadie by the British forces in the 18th century. What I didn’t know, was that after 1764 and the Treaty of Paris Britain shifted its policies and Acadians were allowed to return in small groups, though their original lands were never restored.

As you drive the Maritime Provence's roads and byways the evidence of Acadians is

The Acadian flag is an adaptation of the
French tricolor.

everywhere.  The Acadian flag flies over many homes.  The Acadian star decorates many houses. 

I expected Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island to be solidly English speaking. That is not the case at all…French is likely to the the first language spoken to you by a grocery store cashier in the town of Shediac, or Bouctouche. In Cheticamp French is likely the first language of the Snow Crab fishermen. Driving you encounter Acadian museums, Acadian history centers.  In Nova Scotia a stretch of road is called the Acadian Highway.  There is the Acadian coast. 

I found family names on signs: Cormier Farms: You-Pick-Strawberries, Pierre Cormier DDS., LeBlanc Insurance. Their names are on the landscape in places like Cormier-Village, New Brunswick and River Hébert in Nova Scotia.   

Festivals celebrate Acadian music and food. Every other year there is a great Acadian Reunion that attracts thousands of people. There is a recipe for Acadian Poutine. Acadian women still hook rugs. Gift shops stock Acadian sox, Acadian hats, Acadian backpacks, shot glasses, placemats.

Acadians have a stubborn, fierce pride. These folks have a proud heritage and they are not embarrased to celebrate their identity.  I have to admit, that by the time I left the Maritimes, I felt a bit of Acadian pride myself. I am considering decorating my California cottage with an Acadian star. 

The word Acadia is found on ships, movie theaters, and this University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia.

Acadia - Wikipedia