The Membertou First Nation (Mi'kmawi'simk: Maupeltu) is a Mi'kmaq First Nation band government in the tribal district of Unama'ki, also known as Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. As of 2012, the Mi'kmaq population is 814 on-Reserve, and approximately 481 off-Reserve.[1] It operates a community radio station CJIJ-FM. Currently, Membertou has become the most well-off First Nation in Atlantic Canada.[2]
Membertou is mostly an urban First Nation community. Named after the Grand Chief Henri Membertou (1510-1611) the Membertou First Nation belongs to the greater tribal group of the Mi'kmaq Nation.
Membertou was not always situated at its present location. Many years ago, Membertou (formally known as the Kings Road Reserve) was located just off of Kings Road, along the Sydney Harbour. In 1916, the Exchequer Court of Canada ordered the relocation of the 125 Mi’kmaq; the first time an aboriginal community had been legally forced through the courts to relocate in Canadian history. In 1926, the Membertou Community was officially moved to its present-day location in the vicinity of Mira Road, Nova Scotia.
Membertou First Nation has been successful in diversifying its economy, featuring a convention centre, gaming centre, gas bar, business centre, a hotel and other investments within the community. The Membertou Sports and Wellness Centre, which features a YMCA and two NHL-sized rinks opened in 2016.[3]
Currently, a business development called Seventh Exchange is being built across from the Highway 125 interchange.[4] It will feature big box stores and light-commercial and retail development. It will be similar to Dartmouth Crossing in the Halifax Regional Municipality.
Membertou First Nation is composed of four parts as shown:
| Community | Area | Location | Population | Date established |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caribou Marsh 29 | 219.3 hectares (542 acres) | 8 km. southwest of Sydney | 0 | April 28, 1882 |
| Malagawatch 4 (1/5 share) | 661.3 hectares (1,634 acres) | 62 km. southwest of Sydney | 0 | August 2, 1833 |
| Membertou 28B | 103.6 hectares (256 acres) | 1.6 km. south of Sydney | 1,103 | August 31, 1925 |
| Sydney 28A | 5.1 hectares (13 acres) | 1.6 km. northeast of Sydney | 0 | September 7, 1921 |
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46°6′53.84″N 60°11′25.44″W / 46.1149556°N 60.1904000°W / 46.1149556; -60.1904000
