Saint-Anicet is a charming municipality nestled in the Le Haut-Saint-Laurent Regional County Municipality in the Montérégie administrative region of Quebec. As of the Canada 2021 Census, this quaint town is home to 2,754 residents.
Saint-Anicet is beautifully situated in the southwestern Montérégie region of Quebec, on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River. Its location offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Saint-Anicet is more than just its main population centre. It encompasses several other locations within its boundaries, each with its unique charm:
The municipality is blessed with beautiful waterways that pass through or are situated within its boundaries. The Rivière La Guerre (45°08′40″N 74°21′03″W) runs in a southeast to northwest direction to the Saint Lawrence River, adding to the natural beauty of the region.
Saint-Anicet has a rich history that dates back to 1788 when the geographic township of Godmanchester was surveyed. By 1795, a group of Acadians had settled in the area, followed by Irish and French Canadians. In 1810, a mission named after Pope Anicetus was established, which became the Parish of Saint-Anicet-de-Godmanchester in 1827. The post office opened in 1851, and on July 1, 1845, the Parish Municipality of Saint-Anicet was formed. It merged into the Municipality of Beauharnois Number Two on September 1, 1847, but was reestablished on July 1, 1855. On December 10, 2011, the parish municipality changed statutes to become a regular municipality.
One of the main attractions in Saint-Anicet is the Tsiionhiakwatha/Droulers archaeological site interpretation center located in the south of the municipality. This site is where an important Iroquoian village in Quebec was located around 1450. Approximately 500 St. Lawrence Iroquoians established a village near the La Guerre River. The centre opened on May 15, 2010. Droulers-Tsiionhiakwatha was designated a Site du patrimoine constitué under provincial legislation in 2005, and a National Historic Site of Canada in 2007, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
