History of Coteau-du-Lac, Québec, Canada

In 1688, on the map of New France drawn up by Franquelin, we can see the rapids of “Côteau Saint-François”. Then, from 1721, the Charlevoix historian sent to New France to report on the state of the colony, named the places Coteau-du-Lac.

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Coteau-du-Lac was part of the seigneury of Soulanges in 1702, the year of the concession of this seigneury, even if colonization only really began in 1768 with the arrival of the first families.

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1779 - The construction of the canal at Coteau-du-Lac (first lock canal in North America) began in 1779 under the command of William Twiss.
Soldiers in the King's Royal Regiment of New York, a colonial unit made up of Loyalists, were mobilized to dig the canal out of rock using rudimentary tools and techniques.
www.pc.gc.ca/ eng/ lhn-nhs/ qc/ coteaudulac/ natcul/ c.aspx

In 1812, an important fort was built there, supposed to protect the first canal with locks in North America, the construction of which began in 1779.
The British garrison lived there until 1856. A customs post was installed there to control trade. between Lower Canada and Upper Canada and with the United States.
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1833 - Église de Saint-Ignace established at Coteau-du-Lac

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1873
COTEAU DU LAC, or ST. IGNACE, a thriving post village in Soulanges co., Que., situated on the River St. Lawrence, 3 miles from Coteau Landing, 36½ miles S.W. of Montreal. It contains several stores and hotels, and grist and sawmills. Pop. 300.
Lovell's gazetteer of British North America; J. Lovell; Montreal, 1873

1895 - Coteau du Lac / Saint Ignace
Coteau du Lac, or Saint Ignace, a post-village in Soulanges co, Quebec, on the St. Lawrence, 363 miles S.W. of Montreal. Pop. 300.
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

1916
Coteau du Lac, or Saint Ignace, a post-village of Soulanges co., Quebec, on the St. Lawrence, 36 1/ 2 miles SW. of Montreal. Pop. 300.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher

Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Coteau-du-Lac and its surrounding areas:
Coteau-du-Lac National Historic Site: Start your journey with a visit to the Coteau-du-Lac National Historic Site. This site is home to the first Canadian canal and was a key transportation route in the 19th century. Explore the canal, the locks, and the interpretive center to learn about the area's history.

Lac Saint-François: Enjoy some relaxing time by the beautiful Lac Saint-François. You can swim, sunbathe, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll along the shores. It's a perfect spot for a day of family fun.

Boating and Fishing: The lake offers excellent opportunities for boating and fishing. Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and explore the calm waters. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching various species of fish, including bass and walleye.

Le Nichoir Bird Conservation Center: Located nearby in Hudson, Quebec, this center is a must-visit for bird lovers. You can learn about local bird species, their conservation efforts, and even observe injured birds ... Read MORE...