St. Anthony is a town located on the northern reaches of the Great Northern Peninsula in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It serves as a main service center for northern Newfoundland and southern Labrador. As of 2021, St. Anthony had a population of 2,180.

 

European settlement in St. Anthony dates back to the early 16th century when French and Basque fishermen used the well-sheltered harbour as a seasonal fishing station. By 1857, a census found 71 inhabitants in 10 families, and the population grew to 139 by 1891. The town experienced significant growth after the arrival of Dr. Wilfred Grenfell in 1900.

 

St. Anthony is a popular tourist destination known for its whale watching and proximity to the Viking settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows, a UNESCO World Heritage Site 40 km from the town. The town is also home to several historic sites and museums related to Dr. Wilfred Grenfell, including the Grenfell House Museum and the Grenfell Interpretation Centre.

 

Other notable attractions include the Rotunda, a display of ceramic murals depicting the culture and history of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Dockhouse Museum, which demonstrates how vessels were pulled out of the water for repairs in the late 1920s.

 

St. Anthony is located along the northern portion of Iceberg Alley, where iceberg and whale-watching seasons run from late spring to mid-summer. The town celebrates the annual arrival of icebergs with the Iceberg Festival, which starts on the first Friday in June.

 

St. Anthony is accessible by road, with the town at the end of The Viking Trail (Route 436). The nearest airport is St. Anthony Airport, located 51 km from the town.

 

History of Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada's history dates back to the early 16th century when French and Basque fishermen used the town's well-sheltered harbour as a seasonal fishing station. By 1857, a census found 71 inhabitants in 10 families, and the population grew to 139 by 1891.

 

The town experienced significant growth after Dr. Wilfred Grenfell's arrival in 1900. Grenfell, on behalf of the Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen, chose St. Anthony as the site for a small hospital that would later become the headquarters of the International Grenfell Association, founded by Grenfell in 1912. Several historic sites and museums commemorate Grenfell's work in St. Anthony.

 

Over the years, other sources of employment in St. Anthony have included a radar base built in 1951, a series of fish plants starting in 1944, and an airport built in 1957 and replaced in 1983. Tourism has also become an important industry as fishing stocks have dwindled, with visitors visiting historical sites related to Grenfell, the nearby Viking settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows, and natural attractions like icebergs and whales.

 

Geography of Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is a town located on the northern reaches of the Great Northern Peninsula. It serves as a main service center for northern Newfoundland and southern Labrador. The town is situated near the northern tip of the island of Newfoundland, approximately 306 miles (492 km) northeast of Corner Brook.

 

Key Geographic Features

• Location: Saint Anthony is positioned north of the entrance to Hare Bay on the northern peninsula of Newfoundland.
• Land Area: The town has a land area of 37.46 km² (14.46 sq mi).
• Population Density: The population density in 2021 was 58.2/km² (150.7/sq mi).

 

Climate

Saint Anthony experiences a subarctic climate (Köppen climate classification Dfc), characterized by long, cold winters and short, mild summers. The winters are milder than most of Canada at the same latitude due to the strong maritime influence, but they are still severe, with snow cover sometimes reaching as high as 276 cm (108.7 in).

 

These geographic and climatic features contribute to Saint Anthony's unique character and importance as a service center and tourist destination in Newfoundland and Labrador.

 

Demographics of Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, has a diverse demographic profile influenced by its historical and geographical context. Here are some key demographic details:

 

Population and Land Area

• Population, 2021: 2,180
• Population, 2016: 2,258
• Population Change, 2016-2021: -3.5%
• Land Area, 2021: 37.46 km² (14.46 sq mi)
• Population Density, 2021: 58.2/km² (150.7/sq mi)

 

Age and Marital Status

• Median Age, 2021: 50.5 years
• Married Couples, 2021: 76%

 

Language and Cultural Background

• Knowledge of Official Languages, 2021: 2,080
• English: 2,080
• French: 25
• Non-Official Languages: 140

 

These demographics reflect the town's historical growth, its role as a service center, and the cultural diversity of its population.

 

Economy of Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

The economy of Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, has evolved, with several key industries shaping the town's development:

 

Fishing and Fish Processing

• Saint Anthony has long been an important fishing and fish processing center, with a series of fish plants operating in the town since the 1940s.
• The town's well-sheltered harbour made it an attractive location for seasonal fishing operations by French and Basque fishermen dating back to the 16th century.
• The arrival of Dr. Wilfred Grenfell in 1900 and the establishment of the International Grenfell Association further boosted the local fishing industry.

 

Military Presence

• In 1951, a Pinetree Line radar site was built near Saint Anthony, bringing a U.S. military presence to the town. By 1962, 250 servicemen were stationed there.

 

Tourism

• As fishing stocks have declined, tourism has become an increasingly important industry for Saint Anthony.
• Visitors are attracted to the town's historical sites related to Dr. Grenfell, the nearby Viking settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows, and natural attractions like icebergs and whales.
• The annual Iceberg Festival, celebrating the arrival of icebergs in Iceberg Alley, is a major draw for tourists.

 

Other Industries

• A salt fish plant and cold storage facility were important economic drivers in the 1930s and 1940s.
• An airport was built in 1957 and replaced in 1983, providing transportation infrastructure for the region.

 

Saint Anthony's economy has evolved from a primarily fishing-based economy to one that now relies more heavily on tourism while maintaining some fishing and processing operations. The town's strategic location and natural assets continue to shape its economic development.

 

Education in Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada is home to several educational institutions and services:

 

College of the North Atlantic - St. Anthony Campus

• The St. Anthony campus of the College of the North Atlantic is the public college serving the region. It offers a variety of programs and courses. 

 

Academy Canada - ABE Learning Centre: St. Anthony

• This private career college provides adult basic education (ABE) programs in Saint Anthony. 

 

Department of Advanced Education & Skills

• The provincial government's Department of Advanced Education & Skills has an office in Saint Anthony. 

 

Beyond these formal educational institutions, Saint Anthony also has historical sites and museums related to the influential Dr. Wilfred Grenfell, who played a key role in the town's development. These include the Grenfell House Museum and the Grenfell Interpretation Centre. 

 

Saint Anthony serves as an important educational hub for northern Newfoundland and southern Labrador. The region offers a mix of public and private post-secondary options to residents and students.

 

Transport System of Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, has a well-developed transport system that includes air, road, and ferry services:

 

Air Transportation

• St. Anthony Airport is owned and operated by Transport Canada. It hosts two airlines with regular flights in and out of the town:
  • Air Labrador
  • PAL Airlines, which connects St. Anthony to major centers
• Visitors can fly directly to St. Anthony Airport or Deer Lake Airport and reserve a rental car

 

Road Transportation

• St. Anthony is accessible by road, located at the end of The Viking Trail (Route 436)
• Taxi services, including Town Taxi and Guy Strangemore, are available in the town.
• Car dealerships like Woodward Motors allow residents to purchase new or used vehicles.
• Rental car services are provided by companies such as Woodward Rent-A-Car Limited (National Rent-A-Car)

 

Ferry Transportation

• Visitors can take the Marine Atlantic Ferry from Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. They can drive the Trans-Canada Highway to Deer Lake and take The Viking Trail (Route 430) to St. Anthony.
• Provincial ferry services connect Newfoundland and Labrador

 

Ground Transportation Services

• Shuttle services like Danny's Airbus provide transportation from airports to St. Anthony.
• Travel agencies such as Carlson Wagonlit Harvey's Travel can assist with transportation arrangements.

 

The air, road, and ferry services make St. Anthony accessible from various parts of Canada and the United States, facilitating travel for residents, businesses, and tourists.

 

Living in Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Living in Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a strong sense of community. Here are some key aspects of living in Saint Anthony:

 

Geography and Climate

• Location: Saint Anthony is situated on the northern reaches of the Great Northern Peninsula, approximately 306 miles (492 km) northeast of Corner Brook.
• Climate: Saint Anthony experiences a subarctic climate (Köppen climate classification Dfc), characterized by long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Due to the strong maritime influence, the winters are milder than most of Canada at the same latitude.

 

Economy

• Fishing and Fish Processing: Saint Anthony has a long fishing and fish processing history. The town's well-sheltered harbour made it an attractive location for seasonal fishing operations by French and Basque fishermen dating back to the 16th century. The arrival of Dr. Wilfred Grenfell in 1900 and the establishment of the International Grenfell Association further boosted the local fishing industry.
• Tourism: As fishing stocks have dwindled, tourism has become an increasingly important industry for Saint Anthony. Visitors are attracted to the town's historical sites related to Dr. Grenfell, the nearby Viking settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows, and natural attractions like icebergs and whales.
• Other Industries: Saint Anthony also has a military presence, with a Pinetree Line radar site built in 1951. Additionally, the town has a series of fish plants and an airport, which provides transportation infrastructure for the region.

 

Education

• College of the North Atlantic - St. Anthony Campus: The St. Anthony campus of the College of the North Atlantic offers a variety of programs and courses.
• Academy Canada - ABE Learning Centre: St. Anthony: This private career college provides adult basic education (ABE) programs in Saint Anthony.

 

Attractions and Activities

• Historical Sites: Saint Anthony is home to several historic sites and museums related to Dr. Wilfred Grenfell, including the Grenfell House Museum and the Grenfell Interpretation Centre.
• L'Anse aux Meadows: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the location of the earliest evidence of Viking (and European) settlement in North America, approximately 40 km from Saint Anthony.
• Iceberg and Whale Watching: Saint Anthony is located along the northern portion of Iceberg Alley, where iceberg and whale watching seasons run from late spring to mid-summer. The town celebrates the annual arrival of icebergs with the Iceberg Festival.

 

Transportation

• Air Transportation: Saint Anthony Airport is owned and operated by Transport Canada. It hosts two airlines with regular flights in and out of the town.
• Road Transportation: Saint Anthony is accessible by road at the end of The Viking Trail (Route 436). Taxi services and car rental options are available in the town.
• Ferry Transportation: Visitors can take the Marine Atlantic Ferry from Sydney, Nova Scotia, to Port aux Basques, Newfoundland, and then drive to Saint Anthony.

 

Demographics

• Population: As of the 2021 Census, Saint Anthony had a population of 2,180, with a population density of 58.2/km² (150.7/sq mi).
• Age and Marital Status: The median age in Saint Anthony is 50.5 years, and 76% of households are married couples.
• Income and Employment: The average total income in Saint Anthony is $48,960, and the average after-tax income is $40,680.

 

Living in Saint Anthony offers a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and a strong sense of community, making it an attractive place to live and visit.

 

Healthcare in Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

The healthcare system in Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, has a rich history and continues to play an important role in the community:

 

Dr. Wilfred Grenfell and the International Grenfell Association

• Dr. Wilfred Grenfell, a medical missionary, chose Saint Anthony in 1900 as the site for a small hospital that later became the headquarters of the International Grenfell Association, which Grenfell founded in 1912.
• Several historic sites and museums, including the Grenfell House Museum and the Grenfell Interpretation Centre, commemorate Grenfell's work in Saint Anthony.

 

Healthcare Facilities and Services

• Saint Anthony is an important medical center for northern Newfoundland and southern Labrador.
• The town is home to various healthcare facilities and services, including:
  • Hospitals and clinics providing 24-hour nursing care, rehabilitation services, and specialized care
  • Dental, vision, and podiatry services
  • Pharmacy, laboratory, and radiology services
  • Hospice and palliative care
  • Telemedicine capabilities

 

Healthcare has been a cornerstone of Saint Anthony's development and continues to be an essential part of the town's infrastructure, serving the needs of the local and regional population.

 

Tourist Places in Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, offers a variety of tourist attractions and activities for visitors:

 

Iceberg and Whale Watching

• Saint Anthony is located along the northern portion of Iceberg Alley, where iceberg and whale-watching seasons run from late spring to mid-summer. Visitors can take boat tours to witness these natural wonders up close.
• The town celebrates the annual arrival of icebergs with the Iceberg Festival, which starts on the first Friday in June.

 

Grenfell Historic Properties

• Saint Anthony is home to several historic sites and museums related to Dr. Wilfred Grenfell, a medical missionary who played a key role in the town's development. These include the Grenfell House Museum, Myrtle Grenfell House, and the Interpretation Centre.

 

L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site

• Located approximately 40 km from Saint Anthony, L'Anse aux Meadows is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only authenticated Norse settlement in North America. Visitors can explore the reconstructed Viking village and learn about the fascinating Norse presence in Newfoundland.

 

Fishing Point Municipal Park

• This park offers scenic coastal trails, including the Daredevil Trail, which provides panoramic views of the town and the rugged coastline. Visitors can also enjoy the Fox Point (Fishing Point) Lighthouse and a seaside restaurant.

 

Ragna Rock Northern Brewing Company

• This Viking-inspired brewery and restaurant allows visitors to experience the local culture and enjoy hand-crafted beers and cuisine.

 

Other Attractions

• Visitors can also explore the Rotunda, a display of ceramic murals depicting the culture and history of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Dockhouse Museum, which showcases the town's maritime history.
• Hiking trails, such as the Santana Trail and the Whale Watchers Trail, offer opportunities to experience the region's natural beauty.

 

Saint Anthony's unique blend of natural wonders, historical significance, and cultural heritage make it a popular tourist destination on the Great Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland and Labrador.

 

Local Food of Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

The local cuisine of Saint Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is deeply rooted in the region's history and natural resources:

 

Seafood Specialties

• Cod: Saint Anthony is a major fishing town renowned for its fresh and flavorful cod dishes. Traditional preparations include salt cod, cod tongues, and cod au gratin.
• Lobster: Lobster is a prized catch in the waters around Saint Anthony, often served in dishes like lobster rolls and lobster bisque.
• Crab: Crab is another abundant local seafood in dishes like crab cakes and crab-stuffed mushrooms.

 

Game Meats

• Caribou: Caribou is a staple game meat in Newfoundland and Labrador and is often used in hearty stews and pies in Saint Anthony.
• Moose: Moose is another popular game meat, often prepared as roasts, stews, or burgers.

 

Foraged Ingredients

• Bakeapples: Also known as cloudberries, bakeapples are tart, golden berries that grow wild in the region. They are used in jams, pies, and cheesecakes.
• Partridgeberries: These small, red berries are a common ingredient in Newfoundland cuisine, appearing in sauces, jams, and baked goods.

 

Traditional Dishes

• Jiggs Dinner: A classic Newfoundland meal consisting of salt beef, cabbage, potatoes, turnips, and pease pudding.
• Toutons: Fried dough pockets, often served with molasses or maple syrup.
• Doughboys: Dumplings cooked in a stew or soup, similar to traditional Newfoundland dumplings.
• Brewis and Salt Beef: A dish with dried, salted cod and hardtack (ship's biscuit).

 

Baked Goods

• Figgy Duff: A traditional steamed pudding made with raisins, molasses, and spices.
• Tarts: Saint Anthony is known for its various fruit tarts, including bakeapple, partridgeberry, and lemon tarts.

 

The local cuisine of Saint Anthony celebrates the region's abundant seafood, game meats, and foraged ingredients, reflecting the town's history as a fishing and hunting community. These traditional dishes and ingredients are integral to the local culture and dining experience.

 

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