Why a historical Site?

We live in a place that was occupied long before us. Its inhabitants shaped it, roamed its forests and rivers, built their homes, raised their families, founded businesses, built roads and railways, and mined copper. First, there were the Indigenous peoples, the Abenaki, who occupied this territory for thousands of years. Then there were the Loyalists who chose to remain loyal to the English crown and fled the United States. Finally, French Canadians became the majority. And together, they are now Quebecers.

We come as a continuation of their legacy and would like to highlight the entire journey they have taken.

Carte 1813

Territory, Mission, and Activities:

The Site focuses on the history of Bolton Township, established in 1797 and comprising the following municipalities: Bolton-Est, Bolton-Ouest, Austin, Saint-Benoit-du-Lac, Saint-Étienne-de-Bolton, Eastman, and the western part of Magog.

The purpose of the site is to,

• bring to the public the rich history of Bolton Township and its surrounding region;
• encourage historical research, protection, conservation, and development of movable, immovable, and intangible heritage (such as traditional knowledge);
• present various activities: talks, chronicles, exhibitions, publications, etc.
• give a voice to all those who want to tell a story about the township.
• We believe that knowledge of history is essential because it helps us understand the present and perhaps glimpse what the future might hold.