The Nackawic Lions Club was officially granted its charter on January 16, 1971, during a period of significant change and development in the region. The community of Nackawic itself was newly established to accommodate residents displaced by the creation of the Mactaquac Power Dam on the St. John River, located approximately 40 kilometers downstream.
The formation of the Lions Club came at a pivotal time, as the community was still taking shape. Just a few years later, the town experienced a surge in growth with the opening of the St. Anne–Nackawic Pulp and Paper Company Ltd., which quickly became the primary employer in the area. This influx of residents and economic activity provided fertile ground for a strong and active service club.
The Club's Charter Night was held at the Royal Canadian Legion Building, marking the beginning of a longstanding tradition of service, leadership, and community involvement. The event was supported by more than 30 businesses and organizations, not only from Nackawic and its immediate surroundings but also from communities as far away as Woodstock and Fredericton. This regional support reflected the importance of service organizations in uniting and uplifting newly formed communities.
Since its founding, the Nackawic Lions Club has remained committed to the core values of service, fellowship, and community engagement. Over the decades, the Club has taken part in countless local initiatives, fundraising efforts, and service projects, all aimed at improving the lives of residents in Nackawic and beyond.
Today, the Nackawic Lions Club continues to serve as a cornerstone of the community—honouring its past while building a better future.