[4] Before the European settlers came in the early 1800s Greenfield was used exclusively as a seasonal hunting and fishing ground by the Mi'kmaq, who had settled the valley on either side of the river.
In 1840 the Government of Canada designated a reserve on the west side of the river chiefly for a burial ground and chapel.
[5] Besides the Jesuits, the first European settler to come to the area was Samuel Hunt Sr (1792–1872), who persuaded the natives to let him settle there by trading large amounts of liquor from his bootlegging operation.
Two local stores, a recreation centre, an RV park and a campground also employ small numbers of workers.
There are many activities for cottage owners to partake in during the summer months, including two slalom ski courses (one on the river, and another on Ponhook Lake) as well numerous public areas to swim in.