Causapscal

Causapscal lies where the Matapédia and Causapscal rivers meet in the valley of the Gaspé interior. The surrounding landscape combines forested hills, salmon rivers and narrow corridors through the Appalachian uplands. The Mi'kmaq name refers to a rocky bed, swift water or stony point, tied directly to the river rather than to a later town.

Indigenous families travelled the Matapédia corridor to reach the Restigouche estuary, the St Lawrence and the Bay of Chaleur. Fishing, hunting and canoe routes connected several watersheds. Acadian and French traders later entered the route, exchanging metal goods, cloth and food with Mi'kmaq communities.

The river junction was the fixed point of this country. Causapscal's identity belongs to an Indigenous route across the wooded interior. Furs, fish and forest materials moved along the river junction, where travelers changed routes before crossing the highlands. Salmon, eels and forest game supported camps near the confluence, where travellers could shelter before entering the steep valley. Moose, beaver and salmon supplied food and exchange goods, and canoe routes connected the St Lawrence and Restigouche drainages.