Lacolle, Quebec, a quaint municipality nestled in southern Quebec, Canada, is a place of rich history and vibrant culture. Located in the administrative area of the Montérégie, on the Canada–United States border, Lacolle is a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The Lacolle River, which runs eastward through the middle of the town, adds to the picturesque charm of this place.
The history of Lacolle, Quebec, can be traced back to July 4, 1609, when Samuel de Champlain and his entourage stopped briefly at the mouth of a small stream for a meal before continuing southward up the Richelieu River into the lake which now bears his name. In his journal, Champlain referred to the location of the delta as "Lacole". When translated literally, the term means the neck of a bottle or that which is above the shoulders.
Lacolle was the site of three significant battles in the early 19th Century. Two of these battles took place during the War of 1812. The Battle of Lacolle Mills (1812) was a short engagement in which a small garrison of Canadien Militia, with the assistance of Kahnawake Mohawk warriors, defended a makeshift log blockhouse from an American invasion force led by Major General Henry Dearborn.
In the Battle of Lacolle Mills (1814), a garrison of 80 men of the 13th Regiment of Foot and a Congreve rocket detachment of the Royal Marine Artillery, later reinforced by a company of the Canadian Voltigeurs and the Grenadier company of the Canadian Fencibles, successfully defended a blockhouse and stone mill building from an attacking American force of 4,000 men led by Major General James Wilkinson.
The Battle of Lacolle was fought on November 7, 1838, between Loyal Lower Canada volunteer forces under Major John Scriver and Lower Canada rebels under Colonel Ferdinand-Alphonse Oklowski. The half-hour battle ended in a rebel defeat.
As of the Canada 2011 Census, Lacolle, Quebec, had a population of 2,680. Interestingly, more people cross the border illegally from the United States there than at any other point. Almost nineteen thousand people were detained in 2017. The nearest town across the border is Champlain, New York.
Lacolle, Quebec, boasts a small industrial park featuring Arneg Inc, Soudure HMC inc, and a Recycling complex operated by Compo Haut-Richelieu inc. (headquartered in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu). These industries contribute significantly to the local economy and provide employment opportunities for the residents.
In conclusion, Lacolle, Quebec, is a place of historical significance, cultural richness, and industrial growth. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or someone looking for a unique travel experience, Lacolle, Quebec, has something to offer.
