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flag  History of Bedford, Québec, Canada

Journey back in time to Bedford, Québec, Canada

(Saint-Damien)

Visit Bedford, Québec, Canada. Discover its history. Learn about the people who lived there through stories, old newspaper articles, pictures, postcards and ancestry.

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Bedford, Québec, Canada - Bedford, Québec, Canada - Église de Saint-Damien, est. 1869 26, rue de l’Église, Bedford, QUÉBEC Source: Google maps

A small town in the Montérégie region, Bedford is known for its agricultural fairs and historic architecture.

The town of Bedford was an important business centre at the end of the 19th century and was long regarded as the seat of Missisquoi County. Fine examples of New England influence can be seen in the magnificent homes, as well as in the Anglican (1834), United (1871), and Catholic (1910) churches. Its wide main street (Principale), which features terraces, a park, a chocolate shop, and a bakery, is popular among residents and cyclists who choose the Bedford region for its magnificent landscapes and many trail options. In August, the Bedford agricultural fair enables visitors to connect with the rural setting. easterntownships.org



There is MUCH more to discover about Bedford, Québec, Canada. Read on!

Bedford Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Bedford, Québec, Canada - Église de Saint-Damien, est. 1869
26, rue de l’Église, Bedford, QUÉBEC
Source: Google maps
Bedford, Québec, Canada

Photograph
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Église de Saint-Damien, est. 1869
26, rue de l’Église, Bedford, QUÉBEC
Source: Google maps
Bedford, Québec, Canada -
Bedford, Québec, Canada

Map
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Bedford, Québec, Canada - Cable Foot Bridge, Bedford, Que.
Bedford, Québec, Canada

Postcard
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Cable Foot Bridge, Bedford, Que.
Bedford, Québec, Canada - Main Street looking East, Bedford, P.Q.
Bedford, Québec, Canada

Postcard
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Main Street looking East, Bedford, P.Q.
Bedford, Québec, Canada - Lovers Walk, Bedford, P.Q.
Bedford, Québec, Canada

Postcard
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Lovers Walk, Bedford, P.Q.
Bedford, Québec, Canada - Main Street, looking West
Bedford, Québec, Canada

Postcard
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Main Street, looking West

Discover Bedford: History, News, Travel, and Stories

Add informationAdd History/News/Story
In 1801, the Township of Stanbridge, of which the territory of Bedford is a part, was officially established.

grandquebec.com
The first settler arrived in the territory of Bedford in 1804 and settled along the Rivière du Brochet, which has a good number of falls and rapids. At the time, the river was called Stanbridge Falls.

grandquebec.com
Due to the hydraulic power of the river, many industries settle on its banks. Settlement was slow, however, and it was not until 1850 that a large number of workers and their families came to settle there.

grandquebec.com
In 1855, Bedford became the county seat of Missisquoi County.
Towards the end of the 19th century, some of the largest companies in Quebec opened factories there, such as the Corey Needles Co. Ltd (later known as the Excelsior Needle Co. of Torrington and which would later become the 'Exeltor Inc.), the Bedford Manufacturing Co., the Exchange Bank, the Dominion Telegraph Company, among others. These businesses attract many job seekers to the town of Bedford.
grandquebec.com
The town of Bedford was incorporated on November 11, 1866

grandquebec.com
1867 - Bedford
"Bedford - A brisk business village in Stanbridge Township, Missisquoi County, two miles, east of the railway station known as Stanbridge depot. It is situated on Pike river, on which stream in the village and vicinity are several mills, foundries, Ac, driving on active trade. Population of the place about 400. Distance from St. Johns, twenty miles ; Sweetsburg, eighteen miles ; and Philipsburg, eight miles. Mails are received daily. The Circuit Court for the county is held here, and it is also the headquarters of the Missisquoi Agricultural Society. There are two churches, Church of England and Methodist, an academy and district school. The scenery about here is very attractive, and the land of an excellent quality."
The Eastern Townships Gazetteer and General Business Directory: A Commercial Directory and Guide to the Eastern Townships of Canada, Containing Also Much Useful Information of a Miscellaneous Character ... January 1, 1867 Smith & Company
1869 - Église de Saint-Damien established at Bedford

www.gcatholic.org
Bedford was incorporated as a city on February 4, 1890

grandquebec.com
1895 - Bedford
Bedford, a post-village in Missisquoi co., Quebec,on Pike River, 2 1/ 2 miles from Stanbridge. It contains 3 churches, several stores and hotels, and manufactures of lumber, leather, scythes, &c. Pop. 1200.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott


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Here's a list of places to go and things to do in and around Bedford:
Bedford Historical Society Museum:

Start your exploration of Bedford's history at the Bedford Historical Society Museum. This small but informative museum houses artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the town's heritage.

Take a Stroll Through Town:

Bedford's streets are lined with picturesque old houses and historic buildings. Take a leisurely walk through town to admire the architecture and soak in the small-town charm.

Jay Peak Resort:

If you're visiting Bedford during the winter months, consider taking a short drive to Jay Peak Resort, a popular ski and snowboarding destination. It's about a 40-minute drive from Bedford.

Cycling:

The Eastern Townships region is known for its excellent cycling routes. Rent a bike and explore the scenic countryside around Bedford. The Missisquoi Valley Rail-Trail is a great option for a peaceful ride.

Missisquoi River:

The Missisquoi River flows near Bedford and offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. ... Read MORE...

Discover MY Roots: Bedford Ancestry

Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Bedford, Québec, Canada

We currently have information about 20 ancestors who were born or died in Bedford.

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Ancestors Who Were Married in Bedford, Québec, Canada

We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Bedford.

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Our Bedford Gift Ideas

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Poutine, Tourtière and Tarte au Sucre - I Love Québec! - Ceramic Mug

Savor the flavors of Québec with every sip from our vibrant Ceramic Mug! Crafted with love, this mug is a tribute to the iconic culinary delights of Québec, featuring mouthwatering illustrations of Poutine, Tourtière, and Tarte au Sucre. If you're passionate about Québecois cuisine or simply want to show your love for this beautiful province, this mug is the perfect choice.

Joyeuses fêtes de Noël à vous et vos proches! - Ceramic Mug

Introducing our festive holiday coffee mug, the perfect companion for cozy moments and heartwarming celebrations. Say "Joyeuses fêtes de Noël à vous et vos proches!" (Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones) with every sip, as you embrace the spirit of the season.

CANADA - Canadian Roots Genealogy Coffee Mug - Curling and Olympics

"My ancestors came from Canada. That explains a lot about my love for curling and watching the Olympics!"

Québec Roots Genealogy Coffee Mug Gift Idea - Celebrate Your Heritage in Style

Raise your morning cup to your rich Québecois heritage with this charming Québec Roots Genealogy Coffee Mug! Perfect for proud descendants of Québec, this ceramic mug features the bold phrase "Québec Roots" – a nod to the generations that have shaped your family’s history.
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Updated: 2/6/2025 10:21:06 AM