Pictou, town in Pictou County, Nova Scotia, Canada
Pictou is a small coastal town on Nova Scotia's north shore that has existed for more than 250 years. The center revolves around the harbor, where boats sit in the water and local shops, cafes, and museums line the streets.
The town was founded in the 18th century by Scottish settlers who emigrated from their homeland and brought the first large wave of settlement. This Scottish heritage has shaped the town's identity ever since and is kept alive through monuments and annual celebrations.
Pictou's name and character stem from the Scottish settlers who arrived in the 1700s, and this heritage remains visible throughout the streets today. Local artisans display their work in shops, while the waterfront and harbor activities reflect the community's deep connection to maritime life.
The town has hiking trails like the Trans Canada Trail for exploring, beaches for summer swimming, and the harbor for walking along. Information centers help visitors with maps and tips to get the most from their stay.
The harbor was the arrival point for the first major Scottish emigration wave and is therefore seen as the birthplace of this migration to North America. Many visitors do not know that Dr. Thomas McCulloch, an influential educator, came from here and shaped education in the region.
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