Nestled in the heart of La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau Regional County Municipality, Denholm, Quebec, Canada, is a charming municipality located 40 kilometres north of Gatineau. This picturesque town, situated along the eastern shores of Lake Sainte Marie, is a part of the Gatineau River and is a popular destination for cottage vacationing and outdoor sports.
Denholm's landscape is a harmonious blend of gently rolling hills, part of the Gatineau Hills, and numerous glacial lakes such as Cardinal, Normandeau, Plomb, Priest, Rond, and Sam Lakes. The highest point in Denholm is near the Gatineau River, reaching an elevation of 472 meters.
One of the notable geographical features of Denholm is Lac McArthur, located at an elevation of 333 metres. This lake is in close proximity to the Réserve écologique André-Michaux and is downstream from Lac du Chevreuil to the east, draining into Lac Holme to the north. The Lac du Plomb road runs along its east shore, offering scenic views for visitors.
The history of Denholm dates back to between 1851 and 1861 when permanent settlement of the area began. The Denholm Township was proclaimed in 1869, named after a Scottish village located north-east of Hawick in Roxburghshire. The Township Municipality of Denholm was formed in 1924, and its post office was established in 1951.
The early 20th century saw a boost in Denholm's development due to the presence of asbestos, serpentine, and calcite mines. Although mining activity no longer exists today, the largest sheet of mica ever mined in the world came from one of these mines.
On October 11, 2003, the Township Municipality of Denholm changed its statutes and became the Municipality of Denholm. A significant event in recent history was the destruction of the City Hall by fire on May 23, 2010. However, by spring 2016, a new City Hall was constructed at 419 Chemin du Poisson Blanc, often used as a rally point for visitors and tourists.
As of 2021, Denholm is home to 274 private dwellings occupied by usual residents out of a total of 561. The linguistic composition of the town is diverse, with 67.3% of the population speaking French as their first language, 29.7% speaking English, and 2% speaking both French and English.
Denholm, Quebec, with its rich history and stunning natural beauty, offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure for its residents and visitors alike. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Denholm has something for everyone.
