Historically, the 9,000 acres (3,600 ha) of St Fergus parish formed a detached portion of Banffshire.

On 30 November 1941, 11-year-old John Paul, 12-year-old James Reekie and Corporal Ronald Cumbley of the Royal Engineers were killed by a landmine.

During mine clearing operations by 11th Company Bomb Disposal, a British Empire Medal was awarded to Sgt Robert Husband.

Sgt Husband assisted a platoon officer dealing with mines that had fallen down a cliff when rough weather caused a bank of sand to collapse.

The St Fergus Gas Terminal situated to the north of the village, began operating in 1977 and was officially opened on 9 May 1978.