Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Aylmer’s rich history will take centre stage this February with a variety of events celebrating the
area’s past and inviting the community to engage with its heritage. From open houses and
exhibitions to trivia nights and conferences, residents will have plenty of opportunities to explore
Aylmer’s historical legacy.

A key highlight is the Portes ouvertes at the Aylmer Heritage Association, taking place at 495
Ch. d’Aylmer. Visitors will have the chance to tour the former Methodist chapel (built in 1827),
one of Gatineau’s oldest structures, and explore the newly redesigned exhibition space
featuring “Aylmer au 19e siècle.” The first open house is scheduled for Sunday, February 16,
from 1:30 – 4:00 pm, with additional dates on Sunday, February 25, from 1:00 – 3:30 pm, and
Thursday, February 29, from 10:30 – 3:00 pm. The final open house will also offer an opportunity
for visitors to contribute to the association’s ongoing projects.

For those who enjoy a mix of history and competition, Soirée trivia au musée at Musée de
l’Auberge Symmes (1, rue Front) on Saturday, February 10, at 7:00 pm promises a fun-filled
evening. Teams of two to four players will test their knowledge of history, politics, pop culture,
and cinema, with prizes to be won.

A special evening awaits on Saturday, February 24, from 4:00 – 6:00 pm, with the Réception du
patrimoine 2024 at Maison du citoyen – Agora (25, rue Laurier). This event will celebrate local
contributions to heritage preservation, with certificates of excellence awarded to individuals and
groups dedicated to restoring and maintaining Gatineau’s historical sites. Attendance is free, but
reservations must be made by February 17.

For those interested in Aylmer’s medical and social history, the Souper-conférence “Quatre
générations de docteurs Church à Aylmer” will take place on Tuesday, February 27, at 6:00 pm
at Restaurant l’Académie (25, chemin de la Savane). Historian Lynne Rodier will explore the
impact of the Church family across four generations. The event is free, though attendees will
cover their own meals.

History and dance enthusiasts can visit the exhibition “Fernand Nault: une passion, un legs”,
running until March 17 at Maison du citoyen – Galerie Montcalm (25, rue Laurier). The
exhibition, curated by André Laprise, pays tribute to the life and work of renowned
choreographer Fernand Nault, whose legacy remains a vital part of Quebec’s artistic heritage.

With a packed schedule of events, February offers Aylmer residents and visitors a unique
opportunity to connect with the area’s rich heritage. For more information, visit:
https://www.gatineau.ca/portail/default.aspx?p=guichet_municipal/patrimoine .

Photo: The Aylmer Heritage Association invites residents and visitors to explore the area’s rich
history through a series of engaging events this February, including Portes ouvertes, exhibitions,
conferences, and interactive activities that highlight Aylmer’s cultural and architectural heritage.
(TF) Photo courtesy of the Aylmer Heritage Association