Kentville is one of the main towns in the Annapolis Valley.
The area was first settled by Acadians, but after they were expelled from the area in 1755, British people started inhabiting the area. Settlement was expedited by the United Empire Loyalists during the American Revolution. It was originally known as Horton's Corner, but was named Kentville in 1826 after Prince Edward, Duke of Kent (brother of King George III), who visited the area in 1794.
Agriculture, especially growing apples, is the dominant industry in the area. Also, the Michelin tire company now has a plant near Kentville.