Grand-Mère, Quebec

Grand Mère is a settlement in central Quebec, Canada on the Saint-Maurice River. As a result of the municipal reorganization in Quebec which took effect at the beginning of 2002, Grand-Mère now forms part of the City of Shawinigan. Population (2001) 13,179.

History

Grand-Mère was founded in 1898. Like some of its neighbouring towns, it owes its economic origins to the St-Maurice river on which it is located. A major hydroelectric dam that was built on the river in 1916 was one of the oldest and largest Hydro-Québec generating stations. The dam was replaced by a larger dam in 2004. The abundance of relatively inexpensive electricity led to the development of industry, primarily based on the production of paper. Logs which were used for the paper pulp were floated downstream on the St-Maurice to the paper mill from more northerly areas. The mill, which has changed ownership over the decades, has had a lasting impact on the town, from the creation of its award-winning golf course to the construction of several of the town's historic buildings.

The surrounding area consists of forested hills, lakes, and flat plains and farms, with much glacial activity still evident. The Mauricie region in which Grand-Mère is located has been struggling economically for decades, and boasts some of the most inexpensive real estate in Canada.

The name of the town comes from a rock formation that was pulled from the bottom of the river. It resembles an old women with a bun at the base of her head ("grand-mère" is French for grandmother). The formation is now in a small park overlooking the St-Maurice River.

The area's biggest attraction is La Mauricie National Park.

Education

There are five public schools. All of them are affiliated to the "Commission scolaire de l'Énergie" school board.

References

*fr icon [http://www.villesindustrielles.com/mauricie.htm Les villes industrielles du Québec - Two pages of current and historical photographs of Grand-Mère]
*fr icon [http://www.toponymie.gouv.qc.ca/ct/topos/odo.asp?Speci=26536 Commission de toponymie du Québec - Grand-Mère]