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History of Bedford, Québec, Canada
Journey back in time to Bedford, Québec, Canada
Also known as(Saint-Damien)
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Bedford, Québec, Canada.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Bedford
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
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
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MAP
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VINTAGE BEDFORD
Bedford Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Bedford, Québec, Canada
Photograph
 - Église de Saint-Damien, est. 1869
26, rue de l’Église, Bedford, QUÉBEC
Source: Google maps){kind=small}
Église de Saint-Damien, est. 1869
26, rue de l’Église, Bedford, QUÉBEC
Source: Google maps
26, rue de l’Église, Bedford, QUÉBEC
Source: Google maps
Bedford, Québec, Canada
Map
 - ){kind=small}
Bedford, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 - Cable Foot Bridge, Bedford, Que.){kind=small}
Cable Foot Bridge, Bedford, Que.
Bedford, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 - Main Street looking East, Bedford, P.Q.){kind=small}
Main Street looking East, Bedford, P.Q.
Bedford, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 - Lovers Walk, Bedford, P.Q.){kind=small}
Lovers Walk, Bedford, P.Q.
Bedford, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 - Main Street, looking West){kind=small}
Main Street, looking West
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to BEDFORD
I Love QUÉBEC Mug – Poutine, Tourtière & Tarte au Sucre Quebec Coffee Cup
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.
CHRISTMAS - FRENCH CANADIAN Coffee Mug – Celebrate Family, Heritage, and Holiday Cheer
Sip Christmas the way your ancestors would have loved it with this festive French-Canadian coffee mug. Featuring the elegant greeting “Joyeuses fêtes de Noël à vous et vos proches!” (Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones), it’s perfect for genealogy enthusiasts, Francophiles, and anyone who cherishes family traditions. Joyeuses fêtes de Noël – literally “Happy Christmas holidays,” which is a common way to wish someone a merry Christmas and holiday season in French. à vous et vos proches – “to you and your loved ones,” adding a friendly, inclusive touch.
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!"
CANADA - Canadian Roots Ceramic Coffee Mug - Maple Syrup and Apologies Edition - Genealogy
Embrace your Canadian heritage with our "My ancestors came from Canada" ceramic coffee mug! Perfect for sipping your favorite brew while reflecting on your roots, this mug features a moose sampling maple syrup and a humorous caption that reads, "My ancestors came from Canada. That explains a lot about my love for maple syrup and apologizing!" Whether you're enjoying your morning coffee or unwinding with an evening tea, this mug is sure to bring a smile to your face.
QUÉBEC, Canada Roots Canadian Genealogy Coffee Mug Gift Idea - Celebrate Your Quebec 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.
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Bedford: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Bedford through the years.
In 1801, the Township of Stanbridge, of which the territory of Bedford is a part, was officially established.
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.
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.
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.
The town of Bedford was incorporated on November 11, 1866
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."
1869 - Église de Saint-Damien established at Bedford
Bedford was incorporated as a city on February 4, 1890
Show more local history, news & stories
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.
1916
Bedford, a banking post-town of Missisquoi co., Quebec, on Pike River, 2 1/ 2 miles from Stanbridge. It is on the Canadian Pacific R., and has manufactures of lumber, leather, scythes, etc. Pop. in 1901, 1364.
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
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. ...
GENEALOGY IN BEDFORD
Discover YOUR Roots: Bedford Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Bedford through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Bedford, Québec, Canada
We currently have information about 24 ancestors who were born or died in Bedford.
View ancestors by year of birthMARRIAGES
Ancestors Who Were Married in Bedford, Québec, Canada
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Bedford.
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Updated: 2/6/2025 10:21:06 AM
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