Sainte-Thérèse is a city located in southwestern Quebec, Canada, within the Thérèse-De Blainville Regional County Municipality. It is situated northwest of Montreal and is part of the Laurentides region. The city was officially constituted on June 1, 1849, and has a rich history tied to industrial development and recreational activities.

 

Sainte-Thérèse covered an area of approximately 9.58 square kilometres (3.70 square miles) and had a population of 26,533 as of the 2021 Census, reflecting a growth of 2.1% since 2016. The city has a high population density of about 2,798.8 people per square kilometre (7,249.0 per square mile).

 

Historically, Sainte-Thérèse was known for its heavy industry. It was home to several notable manufacturers, including Sicard Industries, the largest snow blower manufacturer in the world. 

 

From 1966 until 2002, the city hosted a General Motors assembly plant, one of the few outside Ontario. Other significant industries included a Paccar plant producing Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks and various piano factories like Pianos Lesage.

 

Sainte-Thérèse is not only an industrial hub but also a center for recreational activities. It is located near a network of cross-country ski trails that extend into the Laurentians, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. 

 

These trails are transformed into cycling paths in the summer, allowing for extensive biking excursions through scenic landscapes.

 

The city is well-connected by public transport, featuring the Sainte-Thérèse commuter rail station on the Exo Saint-Jérôme line. Local bus services are also available through CIT Laurentides, facilitating easy access to surrounding areas and Montreal.

 

Sainte-Thérèse exemplifies a blend of industrial heritage and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a unique community within the greater Montreal area. 

 

Its historical significance in manufacturing and its natural surroundings contribute to its appeal as both a residential area and a destination for visitors seeking outdoor activities.

 

History of Sainte-Thérèse Quebec, Canada

Sainte-Thérèse traces its origins back to 1683 when Joseph-Antoine Le Febvre de La Barre, governor of New France, granted the seigneury of the Thousand Islands to Michel-Sidrac Dugué de Boisbriand in recognition of his military services. 

 

The seigneury was exploited in 1714 when Marie-Thérèse Dugué de Boisbriand and her husband, Charles Piot de Langloiserie, took possession of the land.

 

In 1743, Suzanne de Langloiserie and her husband, Jean-Baptiste Céloron de Blainville, took over the seigneury. On October 15, 1789, Marie-Anne Thérèse de Blainville inaugurated the parish of Sainte-Thérèse-d'Ávila. 

 

The Village of Sainte-Thérèse was officially created on June 1, 1849, following a request from residents to the Terrebonne County Parish Council.

 

Sainte-Thérèse became known for its heavy industry in the 20th century. It was home to several major manufacturers, including:

• Sicard Industries, the largest snow blower manufacturer in the world
• A General Motors assembly plant from 1966 to 2002, one of the few outside Ontario
• A Paccar plant producing Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks
• Several piano factories like Pianos Lesage

 

Before the GM plant arrived in 1966, Machineries Dion, an agricultural equipment company, was the biggest employer in the region. Starting in the 1940s, it designed and produced steel combines.

 

Sainte-Thérèse has evolved from an early seigneury to an industrial hub to a recreational destination, reflecting its rich history and role within the greater Montreal region. Its manufacturing and outdoor activities mix continues to shape the city's character today.

 

Geography of Sainte-Thérèse Quebec, Canada

Sainte-Thérèse is located in the Laurentides region of southwestern Quebec, Canada, and serves as an off-island suburb northwest of Montreal. It is part of the Thérèse-De Blainville Regional County Municipality.

 

Geographic Location

Sainte-Thérèse is situated at approximately 45.6333° N latitude and -73.8500° W longitude. The city covers an area of 9.48 square kilometres (3.66 square miles) and is about 37 meters (121 feet) above sea level. 

 

It is bordered by several municipalities, including Blainville to the north, Rosemère to the south, and Saint-Eustache to the west, making it strategically located within the metropolitan area of Montreal.

 

Natural Features and Environment

The geography of Sainte-Thérèse is characterized by its proximity to the Laurentian Mountains, which provide a picturesque backdrop and contribute to the town's recreational offerings. 

 

Nearby is the southern limit of a network of cross-country ski trails, which allow residents and visitors access to winter sports. In the summer, these trails are converted into dedicated bicycle paths, promoting outdoor activities and tourism.

 

Demographics of Sainte-Thérèse Quebec, Canada

According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Sainte-Thérèse has a population of 26,533 residents, a 2.1% increase from the 2016 population of 25,989. 

 

The city spans an area of 9.48 square kilometres (3.66 square miles), resulting in a population density of approximately 2,798.8 people per square kilometre (7,249.0 per square mile) in 2021.

 

In terms of housing, there are 13,202 private dwellings in Sainte-Thérèse, 12,686 of which are occupied. This represents a 4.2% increase in occupied dwellings since 2016, indicating a growing residential community.

 

Age and Gender Distribution

The demographic profile of Sainte-Thérèse includes a diverse age distribution. While specific age breakdowns were not detailed in the search results, the overall trends in Quebec suggest a mix of young families and older residents, typical of suburban areas.

 

Language

French is the predominant language spoken in Sainte-Thérèse, aligning with the broader linguistic landscape of Quebec. The city is part of a predominantly French-speaking province, with a significant portion of the population being bilingual.

 

Sainte-Thérèse's demographics reflect a vibrant and growing community with a diverse population. The increase in population and housing occupancy indicates its appeal as a suburban area within the Montreal metropolitan region.

 

Economy of Sainte-Thérèse Quebec, Canada

Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec, has a diverse economy characterized by a blend of heavy industry, manufacturing, and recreational activities.

 

Industrial and Manufacturing Sector

Historically, Sainte-Thérèse has been known for its strong industrial base. Key contributors to the local economy include:

• Sicard Industries: Renowned as the world's largest manufacturer of snow blowers, Sicard Industries has played a significant role in the local economy.
• General Motors: From 1966 to 2002, the city was home to a General Motors assembly plant, one of Canada's few automobile assembly facilities outside Ontario. This plant significantly contributed to local employment and economic activity during its operation.
• Paccar: The city hosts a Paccar facility that manufactures Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks, further solidifying its reputation as a manufacturing hub.
• Machineries Dion: Before General Motors arrived, this agricultural equipment company was the region's largest employer. It is known for innovations such as the first pull-type forage harvester.
• Piano Manufacturing: Sainte-Thérèse was also home to several piano factories, including Pianos Lesage, contributing to the local craftsmanship and manufacturing reputation.

 

Economic Indicators

As of 2020, the average after-tax income for economic families in Sainte-Thérèse was approximately $89,500. The average total household income was about $82,600, with an average after-tax income of $68,700. The employment rate stood at 59.8%, while the unemployment rate was 7.8%.

 

Recreational and Tourism Sector

In addition to its industrial base, Sainte-Thérèse is a hub for recreational activities. The city is located near a cross-country ski trail network that attracts winter sports enthusiasts. These trails are transformed into bicycle paths in the summer, promoting outdoor tourism and recreational activities and contributing to the local economy.

 

Sainte-Thérèse's economy is a dynamic blend of heavy industry, manufacturing, and recreational activities. The presence of significant manufacturing companies, along with a focus on outdoor recreation, supports a diverse economic landscape that continues to evolve.

 

Education in Sainte-Thérèse Quebec, Canada

Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec, has a well-established educational system with various public and private institutions catering to different educational needs.

 

Public Education

The Commission scolaire de la Seigneurie-des-Mille-Îles (CSSMI) operates several Francophone public schools in Sainte-Thérèse, including:

• École Polyvalente Sainte-Thérèse: A secondary school that offers a variety of programs to students.
• École secondaire Saint-Gabriel: Another secondary institution serving the local community.
• École Arthur-Vaillancourt: A primary school providing foundational education.
• École du Trait-d'Union: Focused on primary education.
• École Le Tandem: A primary school strongly emphasizing community involvement.
• École Saint-Pierre: A primary institution serving younger students.
• École Terre-Soleil: Another primary school in the area.

 

Some students in Sainte-Thérèse may also attend schools in neighbouring municipalities, such as École Plateau Saint-Louis or École de la Renaissance in Blainville, and École secondaire Jean-Jacques-Rousseau in Boisbriand.

 

Anglophone Education

The Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board operates Anglophone public schools in the region, including:

• Pierre Elliot Trudeau Elementary School: Located in Blainville, serving part of the Sainte-Thérèse population.
• McCaig Elementary School: Situated in Rosemère, it also serves local students.
• Rosemère High School: Providing secondary education to Anglophone students.

 

Private Education

Sainte-Thérèse is home to Académie Sainte-Thérèse, a private French-language institution that offers a comprehensive educational experience from primary through secondary levels. This school is known for its strong academic programs and community involvement.

 

Higher Education

For post-secondary education, Collège Lionel-Groulx is located in Sainte-Thérèse. It offers a range of programs, including pre-university and technical courses, catering to students looking to further their education beyond secondary school.

 

The educational landscape in Sainte-Thérèse is diverse, with options for Francophone and Anglophone students across public, private, and post-secondary institutions. This variety supports the community's educational needs and contributes to the overall development of its residents.

 

Transport System of Sainte-Thérèse Quebec, Canada

Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec, has a well-developed public transportation system that includes commuter rail and local bus services. This provides residents and visitors with convenient options for travel within the town and to surrounding areas.

 

Commuter Rail

The Sainte-Thérèse commuter rail station is located on the Exo (Réseau de transport métropolitain) Saint-Jérôme line, which connects the town to Montreal and other municipalities along the route. This service allows easy access to the city and surrounding areas without needing a personal vehicle.

 

Local Bus Service

In addition to the commuter rail, Sainte-Thérèse is served by local bus routes operated by CIT Laurentides. This bus service allows residents to travel within the town and to nearby communities using public transportation, such as Blainville and Boisbriand.

 

Transportation Options

While public transit is readily available, Sainte-Thérèse is also accessible by other means. The town is located near major highways, making it convenient for residents and visitors to travel by car.

 

The combination of commuter rail and local bus services in Sainte-Thérèse provides a well-rounded public transportation system that caters to the community's needs. This accessibility contributes to the town's appeal as a residential and tourist destination within the Montreal metropolitan area.

 

Living in Sainte-Thérèse Quebec, Canada

Sainte-Thérèse, located in the Laurentides region of Quebec, Canada, offers a unique blend of suburban living, industrial opportunities, and recreational activities. Here’s an overview of what it's like to live in this vibrant community.

 

Community and Lifestyle

Sainte-Thérèse is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it attractive to young families and retirees alike. The community is characterized by a mix of residential neighbourhoods, parks, and local amenities, providing a comfortable living environment. 

 

The town is also home to various cultural and recreational activities, including access to cross-country ski trails in the winter and cycling paths in the summer, which promote an active lifestyle.

 

Education

The city has a robust educational system featuring several public and private schools, including institutions operated by the Commission scolaire de la Seigneurie-des-Mille-Îles for Francophone students and the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board for Anglophone students. Higher education options are available at nearby institutions, such as Collège Lionel-Groulx.

 

Transportation

Sainte-Thérèse is well-connected through public transportation. The Sainte-Thérèse commuter rail station on the Exo Saint-Jérôme line provides direct access to Montreal and surrounding areas. 

 

Additionally, local bus services operated by CIT Laurentides facilitate travel within the town and to neighbouring municipalities. Major highways also provide convenient access for those who prefer driving.

 

Economy

The local economy is diverse, with significant contributions from manufacturing and heavy industry, including companies like Sicard Industries and a former General Motors assembly plant. These industries provide numerous job opportunities for residents. 

 

The average income in Sainte-Thérèse is approximately $56,173, 22% lower than the provincial average in Quebec, indicating a relatively affordable cost of living compared to some urban centers.

 

Demographics

As of the 2021 Census, Sainte-Thérèse had a population of 26,533, reflecting a growth of 2.1% since 2016. The city has a population density of about 2,798.8 people per square kilometre (7,249.0 per square mile). The predominant language spoken is French, consistent with the broader linguistic landscape of Quebec.

 

Living in Sainte-Thérèse offers a balance of suburban comfort, industrial opportunity, and access to recreational activities. Its strong community feel, good educational facilities, and transportation options make it an appealing choice for those looking to settle in the greater Montreal area.

 

Healthcare in Sainte-Thérèse Quebec, Canada

Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec, offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents through a network of public and private facilities. Here’s an overview of the city's healthcare landscape.

 

Healthcare Facilities

1. CISSS des Laurentides: The Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux des Laurentides serves as the primary healthcare provider in the region. It is located at 100 Rue du Chanoine-Lionel-Groulx and offers various medical services, including emergency care, outpatient services, and specialized health programs. The facility is essential for the community's acute and chronic healthcare needs.
2. Clinique Mosaïque: This private clinic at 10 Rue Roux is known for its high-quality care and patient satisfaction. It offers various medical services, including family medicine and specialized consultations.
3. Passion Maternité: Located at 27 Rue Turgeon, this facility specializes in maternal and child health services, supporting expectant mothers and newborns. It has received positive reviews for its services.
4. Soins Eurêka: This clinic, located at 160 Boulevard du Curé-Labelle, offers a range of healthcare services, including family medicine and urgent care.
5. CHSLD du Boisé Sainte-Thérèse: This long-term care facility provides services for elderly residents who require ongoing support. It is located at 179 Place Fabien Drapeau and has mixed reviews regarding its services.

 

Accessibility and Transportation

Sainte-Thérèse is well-connected through public transportation, making it accessible for residents to reach healthcare facilities. The Sainte-Thérèse commuter rail station and local bus services operated by CIT Laurentides facilitate travel to medical appointments and services.

 

The healthcare system in Sainte-Thérèse is supported by various public and private facilities, ensuring that residents have access to essential medical services. With a focus on community health and specialized care, the city offers a comprehensive healthcare environment for its population.

 

Tourist Places in Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec, Canada

Sainte-Thérèse, located in the Laurentides region of Quebec, offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Here are some notable tourist places and experiences in the city:

 

1. Musée régional Joseph-Filion

This regional museum showcases the history and culture of the area through various exhibits and artifacts. It often hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, making it a great place to learn about the local heritage.

 

2. Théâtre Lionel-Groulx

A cultural hub in Sainte-Thérèse, this theatre hosts a range of performances, including plays, concerts, and other artistic events. It is a key venue for local artists and offers a vibrant cultural scene.

 

3. Parks and Recreational Areas

Sainte-Thérèse is known for its well-maintained parks, which provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy walking, picnicking, and recreational sports in these green spaces.

 

4. Cross-Country Ski Trails

During winter, Sainte-Thérèse serves as a gateway to a network of cross-country ski trails that extend into the Laurentians. These trails are popular for skiing and snowshoeing, attracting outdoor enthusiasts.

 

5. Cycling Paths

In the summer, many of the ski trails are converted into dedicated cycling paths, allowing for scenic bike rides through the region's beautiful landscapes. This makes Sainte-Thérèse an excellent spot for cycling excursions.

 

6. Local Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, Sainte-Thérèse hosts festivals and community events celebrating local culture, music, and food. These events provide a great opportunity to experience the community spirit and engage with residents.

 

Sainte-Thérèse offers a mix of cultural, recreational, and historical attractions catering to various interests. Whether exploring local museums, enjoying outdoor activities, or participating in community events, visitors will find plenty to see and do in this charming Quebec town.

 

Local Food of Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec, Canada

Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec, boasts a vibrant culinary scene that reflects its residents' and visitors' diverse tastes and preferences. Here are some notable local food establishments and specialties to explore:

 

1. Café Eden

Located at 74 Rue Turgeon, Café Eden is a popular spot known for its cozy atmosphere and quality coffee. It offers a variety of drinks, pastries, and light meals, making it a great place for breakfast or a casual lunch.

 

2. Campagna

Situated at 26 Rue Turgeon, Campagna is celebrated for its market cuisine, emphasizing local seasonal products. The restaurant's Italian roots shine through in its beautifully presented dishes, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

 

3. Mama Deluca's

This local favourite at 305 Boulevard du Curé-Labelle specializes in pizza and Italian cuisine. Known for its friendly service and delicious offerings, Mama Deluca's is a great choice for a casual dining experience.

 

4. La Griottine

Located at 286 Boulevard du Curé-Labelle, La Griottine is a well-reviewed restaurant offering a menu that features a mix of French and local dishes. Its inviting ambiance and quality service make it a popular dining destination.

 

5. Restaurant Kupkao Thaï

For those craving Thai cuisine, Restaurant Kupkao Thaï at 16A Rue Turgeon offers a range of authentic dishes, all highly rated for their flavour and presentation.

 

6. Pomme Frite

If you're in the mood for classic Quebecois fast food, Pomme Frite is the place to go. Known for its poutine and gourmet burgers, this eatery emphasizes the use of local potatoes and offers a variety of toppings and flavours.

 

7. Atelier Sushi

This sushi restaurant has gained popularity for its creative rolls and poke bowls. It is located in Sainte-Thérèse and offers a casual dining experience with high-quality sushi at reasonable prices.

 

8. DEUX Wine Bar

For wine enthusiasts, DEUX offers a selection of natural wines paired with seasonal dishes. It’s a great spot for a relaxed evening out, enjoying good food and wine in a beautiful setting.

 

9. L’Atelier de la Pâtisserie

A delightful bakery and café, L’Atelier de la Pâtisserie is known for its pastries, cakes, and artisanal breads. It’s an ideal stop for those with a sweet tooth or looking for a light snack.

 

Sainte-Thérèse's culinary landscape is rich and varied, offering something for everyone—from casual eateries to more refined dining options. The local food scene will satisfy your cravings, whether you're in the mood for Italian, Thai, or classic Quebecois fare.

 

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