GRAND FALLS, N.B. [Peter Paul Media] — Nestled along the Saint John River in northwestern New Brunswick, Grand Falls is a town whose identity has been shaped by both nature and human ingenuity.
Famous for its dramatic waterfall that gives the town its name, Grand Falls is a place where industry, culture, and community intersect against the backdrop of one of Canada’s most scenic river valleys.
Grand Falls takes its name from the waterfall on the Saint John River, a 23-meter drop that has long attracted visitors, settlers, and entrepreneurs. Long before European settlers arrived, the Maliseet (Wolastoqiyik) people navigated the river, fishing and trading along its banks. The falls provided both a natural landmark and a resource-rich environment.
European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century. Lumber and fur trade drove initial settlement, with the falls providing power for early mills and a natural transportation route. By the mid-1800s, a small village had grown along the river, with the waterfall at its heart.
From village to town
Grand Falls officially became a town in the early 20th century, with a population bolstered by French-speaking Acadians, English settlers, and Irish immigrants. The town’s bilingual character emerged from this mix, a trait that endures today.
The timber industry dominated early economic life. Logs were floated downriver to mills and markets farther south, and sawmills cropped up along the riverbanks.
Later, the hydroelectric potential of the falls was recognized, leading to the development of small-scale power projects that energized local industry and residential areas.
By the 1920s and 1930s, Grand Falls had diversified. In addition to forestry, agriculture became a key economic driver, with potato farming and dairy operations thriving in the fertile river valley. This blend of industry and farming gave the town a strong, self-reliant economy.
Community life has always been centered around the Saint John River and the falls. Grand Falls’ downtown grew as a hub for commerce, education, and social gatherings. Local schools, churches, and cultural centers fostered a sense of shared identity, blending Francophone and Anglophone traditions.
Today, the Grand Falls Gorge is a major attraction. Boardwalks, observation platforms, a zip line, tourist centre and hiking trails allow visitors to experience the natural power and beauty of the falls, safely.
Seasonal events, such as riverfront festivals and community celebrations, bring locals and tourists together, celebrating the town’s history and its scenic surroundings.
The town’s tourism appeal is complemented by cultural offerings, including local art galleries, music events, and historical exhibits that recount the story of the Maliseet people, early settlers, and the evolution of Grand Falls into a modern community.
Modern growth and identity
While small in population compared to larger New Brunswick cities, Grand Falls has maintained its relevance as both a regional service center and a cultural hub. The community balances economic development with preservation of natural landscapes, ensuring that the Saint John River and the falls remain central to life in the town.
Modern industries include food processing, forestry, and retail services, and bilingual education ensures that the town’s Francophone and Anglophone residents continue to thrive together. Community initiatives and municipal planning emphasize sustainability, tourism, and the preservation of historical landmarks.
Grand Falls’ story is one of adaptation and resilience. From its early days as a settlement along a powerful river to its present role as a vibrant small town, the falls have remained a central figure — shaping the economy, culture, and identity of the community.
Visitors and residents alike appreciate not just the natural beauty but also the sense of continuity: the town that grew around a waterfall remains closely tied to the river, to its history, and to the people who call it home. Grand Falls, New Brunswick, stands as a reminder that even the smallest towns can hold a rich tapestry of heritage, industry, and culture.
Featured Photo:
The Grand Falls Gorge is seen on June 1, 2025 / Peter Paul Media.
Peter Paul Media 