Acadia First Nation is composed of five reserves spread throughout the South Western shore of Nova Scotia and across three counties. Gold River Reserve was established on May 8^th, 1820. Local myths claim that the first settlers in the area panned for gold in the river adjacent to the reserve, which is how it got its name. Wildcat reserve is an aboriginal settlement that has managed to maintain its traditional activities such as hunting, trapping, fishing, and canoeing. The Reserve was established on June 8^th, 1820. Ponhook Reserve was established on June 8^th, 1843. Due to its isolated rural environment, the reserve becomes an ideal summer vacationland and hunting ground in the winter. Medway Reserve, established on May 8^th, 1865 is the smallest of the 5 reserves. There are very few band members that inhabit the land. Finally, the Yarmouth Reserve, which is now the most populated reserve, was established on June 8^th, 1887. However, before 1986, the reserve was situated on a swampy and inferior land until the band purchased the land at the opposite end of the original reserve.