Hantsport, formerly known as Halfway River, owes its early growth to its strategic location halfway between Windsor and Kentville on the Avon River, facilitating trade and transportation.

The town's economy was significantly shaped by the shipbuilding industry, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries, which employed a large portion of the local population.

Hantsport's geography is characterized by its position on the Avon River estuary, a region known for its dramatic tidal range, which has played a pivotal role in its history and economy.

The Minas Basin Pulp and Power Company, established in Hantsport, became a major employer and contributor to the local economy throughout the 20th century, focusing on pulp and paper production.

Hantsport's population experienced fluctuations influenced by the rise and decline of its key industries, with periods of growth during shipbuilding and later stabilization around the pulp and paper industry.

The Port of Hantsport, while no longer as prominent as in its shipbuilding heyday, still plays a role in the local economy, handling various types of cargo and contributing to maritime activities.

St. Andrew's Anglican Church, a historical landmark in Hantsport, showcases the town's architectural heritage and its connection to the early settlers and their religious practices.

The Hantsport Memorial Community Centre serves as a hub for local events, recreation, and community gatherings, reflecting the town's emphasis on community engagement and social interaction.

Hantsport’s location near the Bay of Fundy provides opportunities for tidal power research, though the town itself doesn't host a major tidal power facility.

Despite not being a UNESCO World Heritage Site itself, Hantsport is situated close to the Landscape of Grand Pré, a designated site that highlights the Acadian history of the region.

While Hantsport doesn't host major national festivals, local celebrations and community events, often centered around maritime traditions, contribute to its cultural identity.

Historically, Hantsport has been represented within larger political districts in Nova Scotia, impacting its influence on provincial policies and resource allocation.

The town's reliance on resource-based industries has influenced its environmental concerns, leading to local initiatives focused on sustainable practices and ecological preservation.

Hantsport's early settlers were primarily of European descent, contributing to the cultural tapestry of the region and establishing traditions that continue to be observed today.

Hantsport maintains a strong connection to its maritime past through local historical societies and museums, preserving artifacts and narratives that document its shipbuilding heritage.