Chambly is a city in the Montérégie region of Quebec, Canada, approximately 25 kilometres southeast of Montreal. It is situated along the Chambly Basin, a widening of the Richelieu River, and is known for its rich history and cultural significance.

Historically, Chambly was an important strategic location, particularly during the French and British colonial periods. The city was first occupied by Fort-Chambly, a wooden fence built in 1665 by Captain Jacques de Chambly, a French army officer. 

The fort was destroyed by Iroquois Indians in 1702 but later rebuilt in stone. It played a significant role during the American invasion of 1775 and the War of 1812.

The city's economy has evolved. The Chambly Canal, completed in 1843, was a critical shipping link to the US-Lac Champlain region until 1901. 

A diverse manufacturing sector dominates the economy today, including shoe, clothing, and food processing industries, metal fabricators, and growing pharmaceutical and electronic outputs.

Tourism has become increasingly crucial in Chambly, with the redevelopment of the Chambly Canal for recreational purposes, the restoration of Fort Chambly (1983), and waterfront development for boating and shoreline recreational activities since the early 1990s.

The city's cultural heritage is also celebrated through various historical sites, including Fort-Chambly National Historical Park, the monument and home of Colonel de Salaberry (a hero of the War of 1812), and Jacques-de-Chambly Historical Village, a collection of 18th- and 19th-century buildings.

Chambly's population as of 2021 is approximately 31,444, with a density of 1,253.7/km2 (3,247/sq mi). The city is governed by a mayor, Alexandra Labbé, and is part of Beloeil—Chambly's federal and provincial riding.

Chambly, Quebec, has a rich history, cultural significance, and a strong economy. Its strategic location along the Chambly Basin and the Richelieu River has made it an important center for trade and commerce throughout its history, and its historical sites and recreational activities continue to attract tourists and locals alike.

 

History of Chambly, Quebec, Canada

Chambly, Quebec, Canada, holds a significant historical legacy from the 17th century. Initially established as a strategic point in the defense of New France against English and Iroquois threats, Chambly was home to Fort-Chambly, a wooden fence constructed in 1665 by Captain Jacques de Chambly. 

The fort was crucial during various conflicts, including the American invasion 1775 and the War of 1812. Over the years, Chambly became an agricultural market center, focusing on cash crops, dairying, and fruit growing. 

The city's economy diversified with the emergence of manufacturing sectors, including shoe, clothing, food processing, metal fabrication, and pharmaceutical and electronic industries. I completed the Chambly Canal in 1843 and enhanced trade links to the US-Lake Champlain region until 1901.

Tourism has become a significant aspect of Chambly's identity, with the restoration of Fort Chambly in 1983, the redevelopment of the Chambly Canal for recreational purposes, and the development of waterfront activities since the early 1990s. 

The city boasts historical sites like Fort-Chambly National Historic Park, the monument and home of Colonel de Salaberry, and the Jacques-de-Chambly Historical Village, which showcases 18th—and 19th-century buildings.

From its strategic military significance to its economic and cultural evolution, Chambly's rich history reflects a blend of heritage preservation and modern development, making it a notable destination in Quebec, Canada.

 

Geography of Chambly, Quebec, Canada

Chambly, Quebec, Canada, is located in the Montérégie region, inland from the South Shore of the Saint Lawrence River. It sits on the Richelieu River in the Regional County Municipality of La Vallée-du-Richelieu, with coordinates at 45°27′00″N 73°17′27″W. 

The city covers a total area of 27.60 km2 (10.66 sq mi) and had a population of 31,444 as of 2021, an 8% increase from 2016. 

Mayor Alexandra Labbé governs Chambly, part of the federal riding Beloeil—Chambly and the provincial riding Chambly. The city is easily accessible via highways A-10 and R-112; its postal and area codes are 450 and 579.

 

Demographics of Chambly, Quebec, Canada

The demographics of Chambly, Quebec, Canada, reveal a population of 31,444 as of 2021, residing in 12,405 of its 12,609 total private dwellings. 

This marks an 8% increase from the 2016 population of 29,120. The city covers a land area of 25.08 km2 (9.68 sq mi), resulting in a population density of 1,253.7/km2 (3,247.2/sq mi) in 2021. 

The median age in Chambly is 38.3, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.0:1. The majority of the population speaks French, with 86.6% using French as their mother tongue, followed by English at 4.2%. 

The city has a diverse linguistic landscape, mixing English, French, and other languages its residents speak.

 

Economy of Chambly, Quebec, Canada

Chambly, Quebec, Canada's economy is characterized by a diverse manufacturing sector that serves as the city's economic center. Traditionally known for its shoe, clothing, and food processing industries, Chambly has seen a shift towards a broader industrial landscape. 

Metal fabricators, pharmaceutical companies, and electronic manufacturers have emerged as critical players alongside the established sectors in the city's economy. 

Additionally, Chambly is home to an industrial waste treatment plant, the first of its kind in Quebec, showcasing the city's commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.

 

Education in Chambly, Quebec, Canada

Education in Chambly, Quebec, Canada, is supported by various educational institutions. The city is home to École Madeleine-Brousseau (Elementary) and École secondaire de Chambly (Secondary 1, 2, and 3). 

Additionally, Fort Chambly National Historic Site, which Parks Canada manages, offers educational programs and workshops. These programs aim to introduce students to history through interactive activities, guided tours, and hands-on learning experiences.

 

Transport System in Chambly, Quebec, Canada

The transport system in Chambly, Quebec, Canada, is well-developed, offering residents and visitors convenient options for getting around the city. 

The Exo Chambly-Richelieu-Carignan sector provides public transit services, including commuter and local bus services, making it easy to navigate Chambly and its surrounding areas. 

This transportation network connects Chambly with neighbouring communities like Richelieu and Carignan, enhancing accessibility and mobility within the region. 

Additionally, taxi services like Taxi Live Chambly and limousine services like Mimo Limousine Car Service & Private Chauffeurs offer alternative transportation options for individuals in Chambly.

 

Living in Chambly, Quebec, Canada

• Chambly is an off-island suburb of Montreal in the Montérégie region of southwestern Quebec, Canada. It sits on the Richelieu River in the Regional County Municipality of La-Vallée-du-Richelieu.
• As of 2021, Chambly's population is 31,444, living in 12,405 of its 12,609 private dwellings. This represents an 8% increase from the 2016 population of 29,120.
• The city has a diverse linguistic landscape. 86.6% of the population speak French as their mother tongue, followed by 4.2% speaking English.
• Chambly's economy is centred around a diverse manufacturing sector, including long-standing industries like shoe, clothing, and food processing and newer sectors like metal fabrication, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.
• The city offers public transit services through the Exo Chambly-Richelieu-Carignan network, providing residents and visitors with commuter and local bus options.
• Chambly is home to several historical and cultural attractions, such as the Fort Chambly National Historic Site, the Chambly Canal National Historic Site, and various museums and heritage sites.
• Mayor Alexandra Labbé governs the city and is part of the federal riding of Beloeil—Chambly and the provincial riding of Chambly.

Chambly offers its growing population a blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, offering residents and visitors a unique experience in the Montérégie region of Quebec, Canada.

 

Healthcare in Chambly, Quebec, Canada

Healthcare in Chambly, Quebec, Canada, is well-supported, with various medical facilities and healthcare services available in the city. 

Chambly boasts several hospitals and medical facilities, including Manoir Soleil, Residence Andre Michaud, Hôpital Charles-LeMoyne, CLSC de la Vallée-des-Forts, Centre De Sante & De Services Sociaux Haut-Richelieu, Centre Hospitalier Pierre-Boucher, and McGill University Health Center. 

These institutions provide essential healthcare services to Chambly's residents, ensuring access to quality medical care within the city and the surrounding areas. 

Additionally, the presence of over 870 management healthcare jobs in Chambly highlights the city's focus on healthcare management and the availability of career opportunities in the healthcare sector, further enhancing the healthcare infrastructure and services in the region.

 

Tourist places in Chambly, Quebec, Canada

Some of the top tourist places in Chambly, Quebec, Canada, include:

1. Fort Chambly National Historic Site: A classic French fortification built between 1709 and 1711, now a National Historic Site of Canada with a museum and interpretive center.
2. Chambly Canal: A National Historic Site built in 1843 to bypass Richelieu River rapids, popular for tourists, pleasure boats in summer, and ice skaters in winter.
3. Parc des Ateliers Lieu historique national du Canal-de-Chambly: A historic park showcasing the industrial heritage of the Chambly Canal.
4. Rapides de Chambly: Scenic rapids on the Richelieu River offer beautiful views and recreational opportunities.
5. Parc des Rapides: A park rated 4.6, known for its natural beauty and recreational facilities.
6. Ferme Guyon: A highly-rated farm offering various activities and experiences for visitors.
7. Place des Barges: A well-reviewed location in Chambly, known for its scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance.
8. FG Chocolatiers: A popular destination for chocolate lovers, offering high-quality chocolates and confectionery products.

These attractions offer a mix of historical, natural, and recreational experiences, making Chambly a charming destination for tourists to explore and enjoy. 

 

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