After the fall of the French stronghold in Louisbourg in 1758, British forces destroyed many French settlements, including the chapel on Miniku. The Mi’kmaq, however, continued to hold Miniku as a sacred place. In 1792, Grand Chief Michael Thomas successfully petitioned the British colonial government to grant the Mi’kmaq legal rights to the land on Miniku, solidifying its status as a spiritual and cultural center for the Mi’kmaq people.

In the centuries that followed, Potlotek continued to serve as a focal point for Mi’kmaq culture. One of the most enduring traditions is the annual St. Anne’s Mission, a pilgrimage that draws Mi’kmaq people from across Atlantic Canada and beyond. The mission, held every July, is both a religious and cultural event where participants reaffirm their faith, renew family ties, and celebrate Mi’kmaq traditions. Chapel Island, as it is commonly known today, was designated a National Historic Site in 2003 in recognition of its importance to the Mi’kmaq people.

The economic history of Potlotek is also significant. Like many Mi’kmaq communities, Potlotek has relied heavily on the commercial fishery, especially after the 1999 Marshall Decision, which affirmed the treaty rights of the Mi’kmaq to fish for a moderate livelihood. The community operates Apaqtukewaq Fisheries, which is a cornerstone of local employment and economic development. Potlotek has diversified its economy by developing tourism and other community-driven enterprises, such as the Potlotek Expedition Gas & Convenience store.

Today, Potlotek First Nation is home to approximately 753 registered members, with the majority living on reserve. The community continues to preserve its Mi’kmaq language and traditions while building a modern, thriving economy. Through annual events, educational programs, and economic initiatives, Potlotek remains a vibrant part of the broader Mi’kmaq nation.