Lockeport’s history is deeply connected to the sea. For generations, fishing, shipbuilding, coastal trade, and life along the Atlantic have shaped our community, leaving a rich collection of stories, landmarks, buildings, and traditions that can still be discovered throughout Lockeport today.
Learn more about the places and stories that help tell Lockeport’s unique maritime history.
Our Maritime Story
Lockeport’s story dates back to 1762, when the Locke and Churchill families arrived from Massachusetts and discovered the sheltered waters of Allendale Bay. Located between New England and the rich fishing grounds of the Grand Banks, the area offered an ideal location for fishing and trade. Jonathan Locke and Josiah Churchill became prominent figures in the growing settlement, which became known as Locke’s Island.
Locke’s Island grew into a busy maritime community, with fishing schooners, trade warehouses, hotels and fish plants supporting a thriving local economy. Ships carried lumber and salt cod from Lockeport to the West Indies and returned with molasses and salt, while fishing schooners regularly returned from the Grand Banks with their catch. A collapse in the fish market during the 1890s helped bring this period of prosperity to an end.
In 1907, local ratepayers decided a new direction was needed for the community, and the Township of Locke’s Island became the Town of Lockeport. More than a century later, Lockeport remains a working fishing community, with its connection to the sea reflected in its wharves, historic streetscape, landmarks and generations of families who have made their living from the Atlantic.
Explore Historic Lockeport
Take a walk through Lockeport and discover the homes, landmarks, stories and historic sites that offer a glimpse into generations of life in our coastal community.
Historic Streetscape
Lockeport is home to Nova Scotia’s first provincially registered historic streetscape. Located on South Street overlooking Lockeport Harbour, it includes five historic homes built by descendants of Jonathan Locke between 1836 and 1876.
Fisherman’s Memorial
The Fisherman’s Memorial honours the generations of fishermen whose lives and livelihoods have been connected to the sea. It stands as a tribute to Lockeport’s fishing heritage and the important role the fishery continues to play in the community today.
Veterans Memorial Park
Located in the heart of Lockeport, Veterans Memorial Park is home to the community’s cenotaph, honouring those who served and sacrificed in times of war. The park remains an important place of remembrance and gathering for Lockeport and the surrounding community.
Lockeport Lighthouses
Two lighthouses have long marked the waters around Lockeport: Carter Island Light and Gull Rock Light. These familiar coastal landmarks reflect Lockeport’s maritime history and the importance of safe navigation to generations of fishermen, mariners and vessels travelling along our shores.