Complete Travel Guide to Dowling, Canada
Comprehensive travel guide to Dowling, Canada. Discover history, culture, attractions, and practical information for your visit to this authentic destination.
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- Country:Canada
- State/Province:Ontario
- Population:19993


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Complete Travel Guide to Dowling, Canada
Dowling Dorval is an on-island suburban city on the island of Montreal in southwestern Quebec, Canada. In 2016, the Canadian Census indicated that the population increased by 4.2% to 18,980. Although the city has the largest surface area in Montréal’s west side, it is among the least densely populated. Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport constitutes about 60% of the city's land; consequently, all of Dorval's population is concentrated in the southern part of the city. Positioned at coordinates 46.59111°N, -81.33917°E, Dowling occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Dowling place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. Home to 19993 residents, Dowling maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Dowling represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Dowling reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Canada, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Ontario province, Dowling contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Canada's regional character. The role of Dowling in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Dowling discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Canada while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.
Historical Heritage of Dowling
History The history of Dorval dates back more than 350 years to 1665 when Sulpician priests established a mission on the outskirts of Ville-Marie, a French settlement which later became known as Montreal Dorval was originally named Gentilly It was later renamed La Présentation-de-la-Vierge-Marie.
In 1691, the domain of La Présentation, originally owned by Pierre Le Gardeur de Repentigny, was acquired by Jean-Baptiste Bouchard dit d'Orval "d'Orval" (French for "of Orval") was added to Bouchard's name by his father Claude in reference his birthplace Orval in Montigny-Lengrain, France.
It was incorporated as a village in 1892, a town in 1903, and a city in 1956 (in French it was termed a _cité_ , an Old French term from which the English legal term "city" originates) Residential street in Dorval As with many other settlements on the island of Montreal, the Grand Trunk Railway, which came to Dorval in 1855, was highly instrumental in attracting many wealthier families, mostly English-speaking, in search of a summer refuge in proximity to their downtown residence and place of work.
Access to Dorval from Montreal was also facilitated by the extension of streetcar service to Dorval's eastern city limits in the interwar period After the Second World War many middle-class families migrated to Dorval from the city of Montreal and from other parts of Canada.
This migration was made possible by the widening of highway 20 and by the large-scale construction of new dwellings This new housing consisted mostly of single family homes with some townhouses and low-rise apartment buildings, built on lands previously used for agriculture and recreational activities.
The post-war period also saw the construction of Dorval Gardens shopping centre in 1954, one of Greater Montreal's first mall-style shopping centres Today the shopping centre remains the city's principal centre of retail trade The island named Dorval Island, settled in 1860 and located less than one kilometre offshore from Dorval, constitutes the separate city of L'Île-Dorval despite being a summer cottage community with only five permanent residents as of the Canada 2011 Census.
The island is connected to the city of Dorval by a private ferry service On 1 January 2002, as part of the 2002–2006 municipal reorganization of Montreal, Dorval was merged into the city of Montreal, being combined with L'Île-Dorval to form the Dorval–L'Île-Dorval borough of Montreal.
After a change of government and a 2004 referendum, Dorval was reconstituted as a city on 1 January 2006 Although Dorval had the legal status of _cité_ prior to the merger, the reconstituted city has the status of _ville_ (see Types of municipalities in Quebec).
Nevertheless, the municipal government refers to itself as the "_Cité de Dorval_ " "History of Dorval" ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ Cite error: The named reference `maires` was invoked but never defined (see the help page) Cite error: The named referen.
The historical trajectory of Dowling demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.
Historical preservation efforts in Dowling reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.
The legacy of historical development in Dowling remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.
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Geographic Environment and Natural Setting
The topographic characteristics of Dowling result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.
Hydrological systems in the Dowling region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.
Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Dowling area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.
Natural resource availability in Dowling has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.
The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Dowling demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.
Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Dowling create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.
Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions
The climatic regime of Dowling reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.
Temperature variations in Dowling create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.
Precipitation patterns in Dowling determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.
Seasonal weather patterns in Dowling create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.
The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Dowling demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.
Climate considerations for visitors to Dowling include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.
Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions
Demographics In the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Dorval had a population of 19,302 living in 8,716 of its 9,058 total private dwellings, a change of 1. The demographic composition of Dowling reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 7% from its 2016 population of 18,980. The demographic composition of Dowling reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. With a land area of 20. 07 sq mi), it had a population density of 923. The demographic composition of Dowling reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 8/sq mi) in 2021. Canada census – Dorval community profile 20212016 Population19,302 (+1. The demographic composition of Dowling reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 7% from 2016)18,980 (+4. 2% from 2011) Land area20. 07 sq mi) Population density923/km2 (2,390/sq mi)907. The demographic composition of Dowling reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 7/km2 (2,351/sq mi) Median age45. 3) Private dwellings9,058 (total) 8,716 (occupied)8,818 (total) Median household income$77,500$64,689 References: 2021 2016 Historical populations of DorvalYearPop. The demographic composition of Dowling reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ±% 1901481— 19111,005+108. 2% 19515,293+158. 4% 195614,055+165. ±% 196118,592+32. 3% 196620,905+12. 7% Visible Minorities (2021) Ethnicity Population Percentage (%) Not a visible minority 13,700 72% Visible minorities 5. The demographic composition of Dowling reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 320 28% #Languages According to the Office québécois de la langue française, Dorval has been officially recognized as a bilingual municipality since 2005-11-02. Linguistic diversity in Dowling demonstrates the region’s role as a crossroads of cultural interaction and historical influence. Home Language (2021) Language Population Percentage (%) English 10,390 54% French 4,740 25% Other 2,430 13% Mother Tongue (2021) Language Population Percentage (%) English 7,890 41% French 5,125 27% Other 4,765 25% 1. The demographic composition of Dowling reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ^ a b c d Cite error: The named reference cp21b
was invoked but never defined (see the help page). “2021 Community Profiles”. 2021 Canadian census. Statistics Canada. Retrieved 19 October 2023. “2016 Community Profiles”. 2016 Canadian census. Statistics Canada. Retrieved 6 January 2022. Laframboise, Kalina; Parrillo, Felicia (9 January 2023). “Montreal municipalities take action to keep bilingual status under Quebec’s Bill 96 | Globalnews. Retrieved 20 April 2023. “Organismes reconnus offrant des services dans une langue autre que le français”. 19 December 2022. Retrieved 20 April 2023. ]: Population *[±%]: Percent change. The demographic composition of Dowling reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life.
The cultural landscape of Dowling represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.
Social organization in Dowling reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.
Traditional arts and crafts in Dowling continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.
Religious and spiritual practices in Dowling provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.
Language use and cultural expression in Dowling demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.
Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Dowling provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.
Economic Activities and Development Patterns
Economy Air Inuit and La Senza have their headquarters in Dorval. houses the headquarters of its Bombardier Aerospace division in Dorval. Previously Inter-Canadien had its headquarters in Dorval. Air Canada Centre, the headquarters of Air Canada, are located on the grounds of Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport and in Saint-Laurent, Montreal, near Dorval. "Contact us Archived 2009-09-30 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 8 October 2009. "Contact Us Archived 13 March 2013 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 4 December 2010. "La Senza Corporation Attn: Online Store Customer Service 1608, Boulevard St-Régis Dorval, Quebec, Canada H9P 1H6. "Aerospace Directory Archived 8 July 2011 at the Wayback Machine. " Bombardier Inc. Retrieved 4 December 2010. "400 Côte-Vertu Road West Dorval, Québec Canada H4S 1Y9. " Address in French Archived 18 October 2015 at the Wayback Machine: "400, chemin de la Côte-Vertu Ouest Dorval (Québec). "World Airline Directory. " _Flight International_. 25–31 March 1998. "795 Stuart Graham Boulevard North, Dorval, H4Y1E4, Quebec, Canada" 5. "Investors Contacts Archived 4 February 2016 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 4 December 2010. "Air Canada Centre, 7373 Côte-Vertu Blvd. West Saint-Laurent, Quebec H4S 1Z3. "ab11e5b4-ccb1-430e-9a7c-598d63c7480b. gif Archived 6 July 2011 at the Wayback Machine. " City of Montreal. Retrieved 4 December 2010. Retrieved 4 December 2010. "Our headquarters are located at 7373 Cote Vertu Ouest, Dorval, Quebec.
The economic structure of Dowling reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.
Traditional economic activities in Dowling often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.
Local markets and commercial activities in Dowling serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.
Agricultural production in Dowling demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.
Service sector development in Dowling has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.
Economic development opportunities in Dowling focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.
Transportation and Regional Connectivity
Transportation infrastructure serving Dowling reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Canada. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Dowling.
Regional connectivity from Dowling provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.
Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities
Education The Centre de services scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys operates Francophone public schools, but were previously operated by the Commission scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys until 15 June 2020. The change was a result of a law passed by the Quebec government that changed the school board system from denominational to linguistic. Schools include: * Centre d’éducation des adultes Jeanne-Sauvé (adult school) * École secondaire Dorval-Jean-XXIII (secondary school) * École primaire Gentilly (primary school) The Lester B. Pearson School Board (LBPSB) operates Anglophone public schools. * Dorval Elementary School, formerly known as Courtland Park Elementary School until 2006. The Kativik School Board (now known as Kativik Ilisarniliriniq in English) formerly operated the Kativik Senior Education Centre in Dorval. In the district’s early history, senior high school students had to attend classes there to get a high school diploma. During its history, most students dropped out of the program rather than completing it; the centre was a long distance from Nunavik, where the students came from. 1. “Centre de services scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys”. 2. “Main entrance”. Archived from the original on 11 December 2014. Retrieved 7 December 2014. 3. MacLeod, Roderick and Mary Anne Poutanen. A Meeting of the People: School Boards and Protestant Communities in Quebec, 1801-1998. McGill-Queen’s Press, 2004. ISBN 0773527427, 9780773527423. p. 393.
Educational institutions in Dowling serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.
Planning Your Visit to Dowling
Successful visits to Dowling require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.
The most meaningful experiences in Dowling often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.
Practical considerations for visiting Dowling include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.
The rewards of visiting Dowling extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.
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