Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce, a city nestled in the Municipalité régionale de comté Beauce-Centre in Quebec, Canada, is a hidden gem in the Chaudière-Appalaches region. With a population of 5,014 as per the Canada 2021 Census, this city is a testament to the rich history and vibrant culture of Quebec.
The city of Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce has a rich history dating back to 1736 when it was established as a seigneurie by Pierre de Rigaud de Vaudreuil. This makes it the oldest settlement in Beauce. In 1747, the territory was exchanged to Joseph de Fleury de La Gorgendière, who initiated the development of the settlement.
The city's constitution was renewed in 1999 when the city of Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce and the parish municipality of Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce amalgamated. Today, Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce is the seat of the judicial district of Beauce, boasting a high number of beautiful buildings for a city of its size.
Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce is not just about history; it's also about fun and excitement. The city holds an annual Truck drag race event, the Accélération de camions à St-Joseph-de-Beauce (Big Rig Drag Racing), which was established in 2004. This event attracts over 25,000 visitors from all over Canada and much of the United States, adding a dash of thrill to the city's serene ambiance.
The city's designation as the legal capital of Beauce in 1857 led to an influx of notables and the creation of new businesses. This economic prosperity between 1865 and 1911 saw the construction of a church, a presbytery, a convent, an orphanage, and a college by recognized architects. These buildings form an architectural ensemble classified as a historic site since 1985.
The city's prestigious public buildings inspired local notables to build opulent residences in the surrounding streets, earning the city the title of cultural capital of Canada in 2006.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce had a population of 5,014 living in 2,130 of its 2,219 total private dwellings. This was a change of 3.2% from its 2016 population of 4,858. With a land area of 114.7 km2 (44.3 sq mi), the city had a population density of 43.7/km2 (113.2/sq mi) in 2021.
In conclusion, Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce, Quebec, is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and excitement. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a thrill-seeker, this city has something to offer you.
