Seasonal stories & historical reading
History of Alma, Québec, Canada
Journey back in time to Alma, Québec, Canada
Also known as(St-Joseph-d'Alma) (Riverbend)
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Alma, Québec, Canada.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Alma
Alma is a charming city located in the Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, Canada. It was officially settled in 1867, and its development was closely tied to the construction of the Quebec and Lake Saint-John Railway. The city sits on the shores of the majestic Lake Saint-Jean, providing residents and visitors with stunning views and recreational opportunities.
Alma is known for its natural beauty, with lush landscapes, forests, and the nearby Saguenay River. The city experiences a typical Canadian climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
Economically, Alma has a diverse industrial base, including aluminum production, forestry, and hydroelectric power generation. The city's economy has evolved over the years, contributing to its growth and stability.
Culturally, Alma offers a mix of French-Canadian heritage and modern influences. You'll find various cultural events, festivals, and local attractions that showcase the rich history and vibrant community spirit. The people of Alma take pride in their traditions, and you can experience this through their art, cuisine, and celebrations.
Alma is a welcoming community that balances its industrial roots with a commitment to preserving its natural surroundings. Whether you're exploring the local parks, engaging in water activities on Lake Saint-Jean, or enjoying the hospitality of the residents, Alma offers a unique blend of history, nature, and modern living.
Alma is known for its natural beauty, with lush landscapes, forests, and the nearby Saguenay River. The city experiences a typical Canadian climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
Economically, Alma has a diverse industrial base, including aluminum production, forestry, and hydroelectric power generation. The city's economy has evolved over the years, contributing to its growth and stability.
Culturally, Alma offers a mix of French-Canadian heritage and modern influences. You'll find various cultural events, festivals, and local attractions that showcase the rich history and vibrant community spirit. The people of Alma take pride in their traditions, and you can experience this through their art, cuisine, and celebrations.
Alma is a welcoming community that balances its industrial roots with a commitment to preserving its natural surroundings. Whether you're exploring the local parks, engaging in water activities on Lake Saint-Jean, or enjoying the hospitality of the residents, Alma offers a unique blend of history, nature, and modern living.
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MAP
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VINTAGE ALMA
Alma Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Alma, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 (Riverbend) - St. Joseph D'Alma. Le Village et le Pont de Fer. 1924){kind=small}
St. Joseph D'Alma. Le Village et le Pont de Fer. 1924
Alma, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 (Riverbend) - Rue Commerciale, St. Joseph d'Alma){kind=small}
Rue Commerciale, St. Joseph d'Alma
Alma, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 (Riverbend) - Eglise St. Joseph D'Alma){kind=small}
Eglise St. Joseph D'Alma
Alma, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 (Riverbend) - Crescent Avenue, St. Maligne){kind=small}
Crescent Avenue, St. Maligne
Alma, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 (Riverbend) - Hotel Royal, St-Joseph D'Alma){kind=small}
Hotel Royal, St-Joseph D'Alma
Alma, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 (Riverbend) - Hotel Royal (Salon Monaco)){kind=small}
Hotel Royal (Salon Monaco)
Show more vintage photos, ads & postcards
Alma, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 (Riverbend) - Mill Road, River Bend, Que.){kind=small}
Mill Road, River Bend, Que.
Alma, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 (Riverbend) - Birdseye view of Alma, 1950s){kind=small}
Birdseye view of Alma, 1950s
Alma, Québec, Canada
Postcard
 (Riverbend) - Aerial View of Alma){kind=small}
Aerial View of Alma
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to ALMA
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 Alma: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Alma through the years.
Description of Alma
Born of the lumber industry in 1860, Alma quickly became a prosperous agricultural parish. It burst into the industrial age in 1923 with the start of construction of the Isle-Maligne hydro station on the Grande Décharge.
Alma
Alma, Québec, City, pop 29 998 (2006c), 30 126 (2001cA), inc 1979. Alma is located at the head of the Saguenay River near Lac Saint-Jean, 230 km north of Québec City. County seat of Lac Saint-Jean Est, headquarters of the judicial district of the same name, the present city contains 5 former municipalities: Alma, Riverbend, Isle-Maligne, Naudville and the parish of Alma.
Born of the lumber industry in 1860, Alma quickly became a prosperous agricultural parish. It burst into the industrial age in 1923 with the start of construction of the Isle-Maligne hydro station on the Grande Décharge. When completed in 1926, the station supplied power for the Arvida aluminum works and the Price paper mill in Alma. Population multiplied fivefold 1921-31.
During WWII...
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Alma
Alma, Québec, City, pop 29 998 (2006c), 30 126 (2001cA), inc 1979. Alma is located at the head of the Saguenay River near Lac Saint-Jean, 230 km north of Québec City. County seat of Lac Saint-Jean Est, headquarters of the judicial district of the same name, the present city contains 5 former municipalities: Alma, Riverbend, Isle-Maligne, Naudville and the parish of Alma.
Born of the lumber industry in 1860, Alma quickly became a prosperous agricultural parish. It burst into the industrial age in 1923 with the start of construction of the Isle-Maligne hydro station on the Grande Décharge. When completed in 1926, the station supplied power for the Arvida aluminum works and the Price paper mill in Alma. Population multiplied fivefold 1921-31.
During WWII...
1867 - St-Joseph-d'Alma is founded
Isle-Maligne is a town founded in 1924 by Quebec Development Company. Today, the borough is part of the Alma municipality.
The present town of Alma was formed in 1962 from the merging of four villages: Isle-Maligne, Naudville, Riverbend and St-Joseph d'Alma. The oldest of the villages, St-Joseph-d'Alma, was founded in 1867 by Damase Boulanger.
Alma is a charming town located in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, Canada. Nestled on the shores of Lac Saint-Jean, this area offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Here are some places to go and things to do:
Parc de la Caverne Trou de la Fée:
Start your adventure at this beautiful park, known for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails. The highlight is the Trou de la Fée (Fairy's Hole), a captivating cave formation. The trails offer a mix of easy walks and more challenging hikes, providing a great way to explore the local flora and fauna.
Downtown Alma:
Take a stroll through the heart of Alma and explore its downtown area. You'll find charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture, maybe pick up some souvenirs, and enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the cozy cafes.
Jardin Scullion:
If you're a fan of botanical gardens, Jardin Scullion is a must-visit. Located a short drive from Alma, this garden showcases a variety of plants and flowers in a beautifully landscaped setting. It's a tranquil spot to relax and appreciate nature's beauty.
Voie Verte des Bleuets (Blueberry Bike Trail):
Cyclists will love the Voie Verte des...
Read more
Start your adventure at this beautiful park, known for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails. The highlight is the Trou de la Fée (Fairy's Hole), a captivating cave formation. The trails offer a mix of easy walks and more challenging hikes, providing a great way to explore the local flora and fauna.
Downtown Alma:
Take a stroll through the heart of Alma and explore its downtown area. You'll find charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture, maybe pick up some souvenirs, and enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the cozy cafes.
Jardin Scullion:
If you're a fan of botanical gardens, Jardin Scullion is a must-visit. Located a short drive from Alma, this garden showcases a variety of plants and flowers in a beautifully landscaped setting. It's a tranquil spot to relax and appreciate nature's beauty.
Voie Verte des Bleuets (Blueberry Bike Trail):
Cyclists will love the Voie Verte des...
GENEALOGY IN ALMA
Discover YOUR Roots: Alma Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Alma through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Alma, Québec, Canada
We currently have information about 124 ancestors who were born or died in Alma.
View ancestors by year of birthMARRIAGES
Ancestors Who Were Married in Alma, Québec, Canada
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Alma.
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Updated: 1/23/2025 12:22:20 PM
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