LJI Reporter
Tashi Farmilo

The city of Gatineau, in collaboration with the Société Pièce sur Pièce, the Réseau du
patrimoine de Gatineau et de l’Outaouais, and the Université du Québec en Outaouais (UQO),
proudly hosted the 5th edition of the “Rencontres du Patrimoine” at UQO’s Pavillon Taché. This
event, a key gathering for heritage enthusiasts since its inception in 2014, aimed to promote,
protect, and enhance the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The program featured a diverse range of presentations and discussions covering various
aspects of the Outaouais region’s history and heritage. Highlights included the opening
conference by historian Catherine Ferland on “400 Years of Beer in Quebec: A Fizzy History,”
and presentations on topics such as the Archéo-Pontiac project, the unique “twang” accent of
the Ottawa Valley, and the preservation of forest history along the Dumoine River.

Daniel Champagne, Mayor of Gatineau, emphasised the importance of the event, stating,
“These gatherings reflect the dedication of Gatineau’s residents to the valourization of our
history and heritage. This keen interest continues through various initiatives undertaken by the
city, including the deployment of the commemorative art program and financial support for
projects that preserve and promote our history, heritage, archives, folklore, and genealogy.”

Murielle Laberge, Rector of UQO, highlighted the significance of hosting the event at the
university, “Our unique programs and research activities, especially in the fields of museology
and heritage, underscore the importance of regional heritage and the challenges and means of
its preservation and enhancement. This vital task requires close collaboration with the region’s
cultural, artistic, and heritage community.”

The “Rencontres du Patrimoine” served as an essential platform for local heritage actors and
enthusiasts to exchange ideas and insights, furthering the understanding and appreciation of
the Outaouais region’s historical and cultural treasures.

Looking ahead, the event also coincides with the Salon du patrimoine de l’Outaouais and the
Salon des exposants du congrès de la Fédération Histoire Québec, both held at the Église de
Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours, offering attendees a comprehensive exploration of the region’s
heritage.

For more information on upcoming events and to view the full program, visit piecesurpiece.ca .

Photo: In the fall of 2023, as part of the rich tapestry of heritage initiatives in the Outaouais
region, the Archéo-Pontiac project invited the community to participate in public archaeological
digs in Quyon, uncovering remnants of a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post from 1821 to
1837 and educating over a hundred participants and forty students about the region’s rich
cultural heritage. (TF) Photo courtesy of les Amis du Sault-des-Chats