Created in 1785 it was originally called Sydney County and included the now Guysborough County. In 1836 Guysborough County was established and just over 20 years later what was left of Sydney County changed its name to Antigonish County.

The word Antigonish is of  Mi'kmaq origin, possibly derived from Nalegitkoonecht meaning "where branches are torn off". It is said that there were bears in the area that broke down branches to get beech nuts.

The county town of Antigonish is home to Saint Francis Xavier University, one of the top under graduate universities in Canada. .

To experience some of the county's magnificent costal beauty take a drive along Antigonish County's North Shore (via Highway 337 and Highway 245), where coastal cliffs fall into the sea and fishing remains a large part of everyday life. Stop at any of the fishing ports along the way, to experience first-hand, daily life by the sea and take the time to savour the panoramic views overlooking Antigonish Harbour, St. George's Bay and the Northumberland Strait.