It was founded by the Talpin family in 1796, who came from New England in search of good farming land. The town blossomed in the 19th century, due to the influx of United Empire Loyalists and the development of the granite industry.
Stanstead is located upon the Canada-USA border, across from Derby Line, Vermont. Notable landmarks in Stanstead include Centenary United Church and the Haskell Free Library and Opera House.