The document summarizes the past, present, and future of tourism in the Gesgapegiag First Nation community. It discusses: 1) The history of the church from 1914 to the present restoration project, as well as plans for a future museum and cultural space. 2) The Kateri Tekakwitha Mission which started in 1963 and its artisan production influenced by tourism, and current efforts to promote a new generation of craftspeople to revive the market. 3) The community's fishing cooperative from past offshore fishing to present midshore and inshore development, including new projects inspired by the success of existing ventures like the Gesgapegiag Lobster Hut.

1. Gesgapegiag Tourism
The past, present and future of

2. Past
The first church dates back
to 1914. Materials were recycled to
build a new church circa 1963;
it became a key tourism feature.
Present
Thanks to community support and
various fundraising, the church
is now being restored following a fire.
Future
The completion of the project will also feature
a museum and cultural space
for our community.
Kateri Tekakwitha Mission

3. Past
Established in 1963, artisan production and
demand increased to where a wholesale
operation developed; tourism influenced
success.
Present
In 2012, the Handicraft Coop was moved to
a new building in a different location;
suffered a decline in tourists and production.
Future
Current efforts promote a new generation
of basket makers and ash harvesters;
reviving the market-readiness of the Coop.
The Cooperative

4. Past
Fished Lobster, Rock Crab; selling
only to fish markets off-reserve.
Present
Midshore, Inshore development;
Joneve was established in 2014.
Wholesale fisheries and Lobster Hut
proves successful.
Future
Success inspires new Kelp project,
Salaweg, as well as an expansion
project for Gesgapegiag Lobster Hut.
Gesgapegiag Lobster Hut

5. Past
In 1980, an Economic Development plan
was initiated. In 1982, Gesgapegiag
owned the Relais La Cache on route 299.
Lack of development funds led to selling
the property in 1985.
Present
Gesgapegiag owns the Relais La Cache;
moving forward on business and
operational plans.
Future
Tourists enjoy a Mi’gmaq-influenced
outfitting business. Jobs are created for
community members.
The Cache

6. Past
The Powwow-circuit & social engagement at
festivals, were a few ways to take in Aboriginal
culture. Accommodations available were
camping or billeting with family/friends.
Present
Teamwork and forward-thinking results in the
purchase of a Chalet property nearby and a
Powwow Grounds Restoration project.
Future
Tourists have Mi’gmaq-themed
accommodations, eco-workshops, and access
to authentic cultural understanding. Jobs are
created in Gesgapegiag.
Chalets de l’Anse-Ste-Helene

7. The Micmacs of Gesgapegiag Band are dedicated to identifying
next-steps that support our traditional core values, business
development, and coordination to implement
a sustainable tourism strategy for Gesgapegiag First Nations.