Sorel-Tracy, a city in southwestern Quebec, Canada, is a geographical gem nestled at the end of the Champlain Valley. It's located at the confluence of the Richelieu River and the St. Lawrence River, on the western edge of Lac Saint-Pierre. This city, downstream and northeast of Montreal, is the result of a voluntary amalgamation in 2001 between two cities, Sorel and Tracy.
Sorel-Tracy's history dates back to 1642 when Sorel was founded. Tracy, on the other hand, was founded on February 10, 1954, but prior to that, it was a parish municipality known as Saint-Joseph de Sorel. The city is known for its rich history of early exploration by the French, which led to armed conflict with various indigenous peoples. The Battle of Sorel, which occurred on June 19, 1610, is a significant historical event where Samuel de Champlain and his allies held off the powerful Mohawk people in New France.
Sorel-Tracy is the fourth-oldest city in the province of Quebec. Its formation began when Charles Huault de Montmagny, the first Governor and Lieutenant-Governor of New France, built Fort Richelieu here as a defense for settlers and river travellers against the Iroquois. The city's name, Sorel, comes from the first seigneur of the area, Pierre de Saurel, who was in command of a regiment that landed in New France in August 1665.
Sorel-Tracy is renowned for its manufacturing related to the steel industry and metallurgy. Its shipyard has built units of three frigates for the Canadian forces, and two ships in the late 1960s. The city also operates a ferry linking it to the village of Saint-Ignace-de-Loyola, enhancing its connectivity and transportation.
As of the Canada 2021 Census, Sorel-Tracy had a population of 35,165. French Canadians make up more than 97% of the city's population, with less than 2% of the population being foreign-born or second-generation immigrants. Anglo-Canadians make up less than 1% of Sorel-Tracy's inhabitants.
Sorel-Tracy is within 75 kilometres (47 mi) of both Montreal and Trois-Rivières and is easily accessible via Autoroute 30 from the west and via Route 132 from the east and west. A year-round ferry operates on the St. Lawrence River between Sorel-Tracy and Saint-Ignace-de-Loyola, providing a convenient mode of transportation for residents and visitors alike.
Sorel-Tracy, Quebec, is a city that beautifully blends history and modernity. Its rich history, thriving industry, and diverse population make it a unique destination in the heart of Quebec. Whether you're a history buff, an industrial enthusiast, or a traveller looking for a new destination, Sorel-Tracy has something to offer.
