L’Isle-aux-Allumettes
When the first fur traders arrived, the Algonquins had already settled on the island and controlled the river crossings. This is why Samuel de Champlain named the island Île des Algonquins during his expedition in 1613. The Iroquois came to exterminate the Algonquin tribe around 1650, and Tessouat, rich in duties and trade, was ambushed by the Iroquois on his return from Quebec. A battle took place on the shore of the island between the Paquette and Allumette rapids. After the annihilation of the Algonquins, the island returned to a wild state for some 170 years.
In 1836, Fathers de Bellefeuille and Dupuis reported to Mgr Bourget, Bishop of Montreal, that L’Isle-aux-Allumettes was beginning to be inhabited, but was still at the extreme limit of colonization. They point out that sixty families live on the island. They also declare the need to organize to defend the religious interests of both settlers and Indians.
In 1839, Father Moreau asked the bishop for permission to build a chapel on the island. Father John Brady, Father Moreau’s assistant, three lay people and sixty-six families put further pressure on the bishop to build a chapel at Church Point. St. Alphonsus de Liguori Church was canonically erected in Church Point in 1839. In 1849, there were 150 Catholic families and 25 Protestant families; in 1861, there were 160 Catholic families on the island.
There were 5 French families on the island in 1856: Vincent Demers, J.B. Chartrand, Joseph Chaput, Fabien Allard and J.B. Vaillancourt.
The original Township of Allumettes Island included the present-day municipalities of L’Isle-aux-Allumettes, Chichester and Sheenboro. In 1857, Chichester and Sheenboro formed their own municipalities. The village of Chapeau separated on January 1, 1874, and Allumette Island East on May 20, 1920. On December 30, 1998, the municipalities of Chapeau Village and Allumette Island East amalgamated with the original municipality of Allumette Island Township.
Irish Catholics lived on Allumettes Island Est, while French Catholics, recruited by logging contractors from the Quebec City area, occupied the central and western parts of the island.
According to the 1871 census, the population of L’Isle-aux-Allumettes was 1503. The religious breakdown was as follows: 1324 Catholics, 48 Anglicans, 90 Wesleyan Methodists, 28 Presbyterians, 10 unnamed Protestants, 1 Baptist, 1 Congregationalist and 1 undeclared. In the same year, the population of Pembroke was 1,550, a difference of 47 people.
The current municipality of L’Isle-aux-Allumettes was formed in 1998 by the amalgamation of the villages of Chapeau, St-Joseph, Desjardinsville, Demers Centre, Île Morrison and Allumettes Island Est.
CHICHESTER
The municipality of Chichester, Quebec, boasts a rich history linked to the majestic Ottawa River. In the late 19th century, from 1873 to 1876, the township undertook the monumental engineering feat of building huge wooden locks in the Culbute Channel of the Ottawa River. Considered the largest wooden locks in Canada, they reflect the ambitious spirit of the time, which aimed to facilitate steamboat traffic on the river’s upper reaches.
Known as the Culbute Locks and accompanied by an imposing dam, these structures were vital for navigation and trade in the region. However, despite their initial promise, the locks went into rapid decline. By the autumn of 1889, they had succumbed to the relentless forces of the river and the gradual degradation caused by natural wood-rotting agents. The once-thriving waterway was abandoned, leaving behind a legacy both ambitious and vulnerable.
Today, the municipality of Chichester is an example of resilience and adaptation. Its landscape, once dominated by ambitious engineering projects, is now home to a vibrant mix of farming, forestry and tourism. Fertile land sustains farming communities, while forests continue to support the timber industry. In addition, the region’s natural beauty and historical intrigue attract visitors from all walks of life, contributing to the municipality’s diverse economic landscape.
As Chichester navigates the currents of time, its history reminds us of the delicate balance between human ingenuity and the forces of nature. From the grandeur of the Culbute Locks to the tranquility of its current activities, the municipality continues to evolve, embracing its past while moving forward into the future.
SHEENBORO
Sheenboro, another historically rich municipality situated in the scenic province of Quebec, has a captivating past that is as intriguing as it is diverse.
Originally inhabited by the Algonquin people, Sheenboro’s history dates back centuries before the arrival of European settlers. The land’s natural beauty and abundance of resources attracted early indigenous communities, who thrived along the banks of the Ottawa River.
European exploration and colonization began in the 17th century, with French fur traders and missionaries establishing a presence in the region. The area became a vital hub for the fur trade, facilitating interactions between indigenous peoples and European settlers.
In the 19th century, Sheenboro witnessed significant growth with the arrival of Irish immigrants fleeing famine and seeking new opportunities in North America. These settlers brought with them their culture, traditions, and Catholic faith, shaping the identity of the community for generations to come.
The construction of the first church in Sheenboro, St. Paul the Hermit, in the mid-1800s, marked a pivotal moment in the municipality’s history. The church not only served as a place of worship, but also as a focal point for social gatherings and community events, creating a sense of unity among residents.
Throughout the 20th century, Sheenboro continued to evolve, adapting to changes in industry, technology, and society. Agriculture, forestry, and tourism emerged as key economic drivers, contributing to the prosperity of the municipality and its inhabitants.
Today, Sheenboro remains a close-knit community, proud of its heritage and resilient spirit. Its rich history, shaped by indigenous roots, European settlement, and immigrant contributions, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of those who have called this land home. As Sheenboro looks to the future, it does so with reverence for its past, embracing progress while cherishing the traditions that have defined its identity for centuries.
WALTHAM
The municipality of Waltham, Quebec boasts a history deeply intertwined with the region’s development. Waltham’s story is one of enduring community, resourcefulness, and a strong connection to its natural surroundings.
Waltham’s roots trace back to the mid-19th century, with early settlers drawn by the fertile land and the promise of the burgeoning timber industry. Waltham’s growth was organically tied to the logging trade and agriculture. The Ottawa River, a natural highway, facilitated the transportation of timber and goods, making Waltham a key point in the regional economy. The perseverance of these early pioneers, clearing land and establishing farms, laid the groundwork for the community that thrives today.
Over the decades, Waltham evolved as a resilient and adaptable community. While the timber industry has seen its fluctuations, the municipality has consistently leveraged its natural assets. Forestry remains a significant economic driver, providing employment and sustaining a way of life deeply connected to the land. Furthermore, farming, passed down through generations, continues to contribute to the local economy and character of Waltham.
Today, Waltham is a vibrant example of a rural Quebec municipality that harmoniously blends its historical roots with contemporary life. Its picturesque landscapes and access to the Ottawa River make it an attractive destination for tourism, drawing visitors seeking outdoor activities and a tranquil escape. This diversification, alongside its enduring agricultural and forestry sectors, showcases Waltham’s ability to adapt to changing times while preserving its unique identity.
As Waltham navigates the currents of the 21st century, its history stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its people and the profound connection to its natural environment. From its early days as a logging and farming settlement to its present-day blend of industries and tourism, Waltham continues to thrive, embracing its past while looking forward to a prosperous future.
