100th

Holly Smith, LJI Journalist

SHIGAWAKE: The municipality of Shigawake proudly marked its 100th anniversary from July 11 to 13 with a weekend full of celebration, remembrance, and heartfelt community spirit. The centennial brought together residents, visitors, and families across generations to honour the rich history and enduring identity of this small but proud Gaspesian town.

With a weekend packed with events, from ATV rides and traditional games to historical displays, community meals, and heartfelt tributes, the celebration captured everything that makes Shigawake a true gem of the region.

Weekend Highlights: Food, fun, and local pride

Festivities kicked off on Friday afternoon with a BBQ at the Log Cabin, where locals and visitors gathered to enjoy grilled favourites and reconnect under the summer sun. The event was family-friendly and full of laughter, a perfect start to a memorable weekend. Local Member of Parliament Alexis Deschênes was also present to speak with residents and take part in the celebrations.

On Saturday, July 12, over 140 people attended the brunch at the Fair Grounds. Tables were full of food and conversation as old friends and new neighbours came together to mark the milestone.
At 11 a.m., engines revved as more than 70 participants took part in the ATV rally, exploring scenic trails and countryside. Riders of all ages joined in the fun, adding adventure and energy to the day.
Later that afternoon, at 2 p.m., traditional children’s games brought classic fun to the Fair Grounds, where you could hear echos of children laughing and playing, and parents cheering from the sidelines.

At 8 p.m. a lively barn dance featuring the Homegrown Country Band drew a crowd of enthusiastic residents, adding music and fun to the centennial celebrations.

Honouring the community: Youngest and oldest awards

As part of the centennial, the town honoured several individuals who represent both the newest generation and the most seasoned residents of Shigawake: Youngest female: Ellie Hottot; youngest male: Sawyer Almond; Second-oldest citizen: Joyce MacKenzie and oldest citizen: Sarah MacKenzie. (honoured posthumously)

The award for oldest citizen was accepted by Judy McCune the daughter of Sarah MacKenzie, who sadly passed away in early July. The moment was a moving tribute to Sarah’s legacy, and the applause was filled with both warmth and respect.

A walk through time with SPEC

Adding a historical touch to the weekend, The Gaspé Spec presented a slideshow of newspaper clippings spanning the past 50 years of life in Shigawake. Residents and municipal staff were delighted to see photos, headlines, and moments from the past, from community events and elections to fairs and festivals, all chronicled through decades of local coverage.

The display brought back memories and gave many a new appreciation for the town’s history and the role the community paper has played in preserving it.

Words from former mayor Garry Hayes

Former mayor Garry Hayes addressed attendees with a message focused on the strength and importance of Shigawake’s independence. He emphasized that remaining a separate municipality helps protect local services and avoid rising taxes that could come with amalgamation.

He also praised the town’s strong anglophone population and the welcoming, close-knit nature of its people, values that have helped sustain Shigawake for a century.

Looking ahead with pride

The Mayor of Shigawake, Rolande Beebe, told SPEC that the Centennial event was a great success and praised the citizens for their participation and everyone who contributed to making the event memorable. Reflecting on the weekend’s significance, she added, “It was a special time to share great memories. May we continue to be united and welcoming everyone in this beautiful town.”

Shigawake’s 100th anniversary was more than a celebration of years gone by, it was a reminder of what makes the town thrive: connection, tradition, and community pride. As residents looked back with gratitude, they also looked forward with optimism, knowing that the same spirit that built Shigawake will carry it into the next century.