Step back to an era of simpler times in this Provincially Registered Historical Home originally built in 1878 by Thomas H. Pope. Six years later he sold his home to the local Methodist church for use as its parsonage. Lucy Maud Montgomery was only 19 when she came here in 1894-95, to board with the Reverend John F. and Mrs. Ada Estey, while in her first teaching position at Bideford No. 6 School.
Rustico is one of the oldest communities established in 'La Nouvelle Acadie' following the Treaty of Paris in 1763 and is the oldest Acadian settlement in Prince Edward Island. From this region many Acadians emigrated to other communities such as Bloomfield and St. Charles on Prince Edward Island, Rogersville, Saint-Paul and Acadieville in New Brunswick and Matapedia in Quebec. From the cradle of this contemporary 'l'Acadie de l'île', bordering on Rustico Bay and the National Park of Prince Edward Island, visitors may see numerous buildings and dwellings which together serve as a legacy of the past and commemorate the determination and ingenuity of the Acadians. The Farmers' Bank of Rustico, a National Historic Site houses an exhibit of the Rustico Acadians. Enjoy the visit. A nominal fee is charged for a tour of the exhibit and a visit to the Doucet House.