Trading posts were the first permanent European settlements in many parts of the new world and such was the case for the Lower North Shore. In these small agglomerations, cultures and lifestyles met and exchanged goods and services with only one common language, the language of commerce. The Europeans tended to live in more coastal habitats while the native Amerindian population settled along river banks and migrated seasonally to more appropriate hunting and trapping grounds. It was at the mouth of such rivers that trading posts were first situated.

Near the end of the 19^th century, several of these outposts were closed and local inhabitants were regrouped in what is today, La Romaine. Still today, a small French speaking community lives in harmony with a larger native Montagnais population.

The Montagnais reserve dates from the mid 1950s when the previously nomadic groups began to take part in the church. Father Alexis Joveneau, and Oblate from Belgium who had arrived around that time spent his life learning the customs of the Montagnais and earning their respect. The Montagnais community has developed a modern infrastructure, yet still maintains and promotes it's indigenous culture.

The Outer Islands offer excellent berry picking and bird watching. Local boat owners can give tours. Community Events

Spring: Hockey tournament, winter Carnival, Church sales and darts tournaments

August: Blessing of the Canoes

Fall: Crab Festival and Church sales