Verchères, Quebec, an off-island suburb of Montreal, is a charming community nestled on the south bank of the Saint Lawrence River. As of the 2011 Canada Census, this quaint town in Montérégie, Quebec, boasted a population of 5,692.
In the 17th century, Verchères was the backdrop for a dramatic event that has since become a part of local folklore. The settlement was the target of an Iroquois raid, which was reportedly thwarted by the quick thinking of a 14-year-old girl named Madeleine, now known as Madeleine de Verchères. Today, a cast-iron statue of Madeleine de Verchères stands proudly by the former location of the settlement stronghold on the shore of the Saint-Lawrence river, a testament to her bravery.
The name Verchères has also been immortalized in the world of boating. In French, Verchères can be used as an adjective to describe a specific type of rowboat invented in the town at the end of the 19th century, known as the "chaloupe verchères." A specimen of this rowboat is on permanent outdoor display during the summer and fall at the Parc Jean-Marie Moreau, located across from the town office.
The motto of Verchères, "In Tenebris Lumen Rectis Corde," reflects the town's resilient spirit. The streets of Verchères are mostly named after the patronyms of residing families, but also honor local people who have made significant contributions to Canadian history.
