Complete Travel Guide to Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie, Canada
Comprehensive travel guide to Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie, Canada. Discover history, culture, attractions, and practical information for your visit to this authentic destination.
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- Country:Canada
- State/Province:Quebec
- Population:7972

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Complete Travel Guide to Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie, Canada
Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie Saint-Philippe is a city located in Roussillon Regional County Municipality in the Montérégie region of Quebec, Canada. It was established on July 1, 1855. The population as of the Canada 2021 Census was 7,597. As a municipal center, Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie serves as an important administrative and economic hub for the surrounding region, providing essential services and infrastructure that support both urban and rural communities. The strategic location of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie within Quebec County positions it as a key connector between regional centers and local communities, facilitating economic development and cultural exchange. Positioned at coordinates 45.35723°N, -73.47706°E, Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. Home to 7972 residents, Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Canada, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Quebec province, Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Canada's regional character. The role of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie
History The City of Saint-Philippe, officially constituted as a city in 2016, has origins that date back to the 17th century Originally, Saint-Philippe was part of the territory of the Seigneurie de La Prairie-de-la-Magdeleine, which covered the current territory of the municipalities of La Prairie, Brossard, Candiac, Sainte-Catherine and Saint -Philippe, as well as part of the territory of the municipalities of Saint- Lambert, Delson, Saint-Constant, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and Saint-Jacques- le-Mineur.
In 1647, the seigneury of La Prairie-de-la-Madeleine was granted by Jean de Lauzon to Abbé Jean de Laferté, a Jesuit and parish priest of La Madeleine in Paris It was in 1667 that the first families settled In 1744, the first parish of Saint-Philippe, the Fabrique de la côte Saint- Philippe, was founded.
It is following the cessation of eight arpents of land, in the Saint-Philippe coast of the Lordship of La Prairie-de-la-Magdeleine, by Sieur Louis Proveau and his wife Marianne Girou, and Dame Marie-Angélique Maheu, widow of the late Sieur Pierre François Girou, who allowed the construction of the first church.
This was blessed in 1751, under the title of Saint-Jean-François-Régis, the patron saint of the Jesuits in the province of France The second church of Saint-Philippe, the first built of stone, was blessed in 1782 This will contribute to the acceleration of the settlement of the small community.
The second church was in place until the partial fire of January 1843 and the blessing of the rebuilt church took place at the end of the same year Quickly becoming too small, a third church was built and blessed at the end of 1876 The new adjacent presbytery, which still exists today, was blessed in 1885.
On June 23, 1972, the neo-Gothic style church burned down It was an extremely rare example of this architectural type The inauguration of the new church, in 1973, of more modern architecture, contrasts with the old one The arrival of the 19th century brought its share of changes for Saint- Philippe.
The successive legislative changes in Lower Canada have an impact on the status of the municipality, and this, on several occasions The Municipality of the Parish of Saint-Philippe was created in 1845, under the leadership of Mr Amable Coupal, the first mayor of Saint-Philippe.
Two years later, in 1847, following the adoption of the "Act to make better provisions for the establishment of municipal authorities in Lower Canada", the Municipality of the Parish of Saint-Philippe was abolished, thus becoming part of the county of Huntingdon.
Montée Monette It was not until 1855, following the adoption of the "Lower Canada Municipalities and Roads Act" that the municipality of the Parish of Saint- Philippe regained its name and status It is this law that established the foundations of the municipal system in force today in Quebec.
The first mayor of Saint-Philippe under this new regime was Mr Joseph Normandin, who was also the son-in.
The historical trajectory of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.
Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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, Saint- Philippe had a population of 7,597 living in 2,856 of its 2,921 total private dwellings, a change of 20. The demographic composition of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 2% from its 2016 population of 6,320. The demographic composition of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. With a land area of 61. 92 sq mi), it had a population density of 122. The demographic composition of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 6/sq mi) in 2021. Canada census – Saint-Philippe community profile 202120162011 Population7,597 (+20. The demographic composition of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 2% from 2016)6,320 (+15. 0% from 2011)5,495 (+7. 3% from 2006) Land area61. 97 sq mi) Population density122. The demographic composition of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 6/km2 (318/sq mi)102. 0/km2 (264/sq mi)88. 5/km2 (229/sq mi) Median age37. 1) Private dwellings2,921 (total) 2,856 (occupied)2,627 (total) 2,129 (total) Median household income$103,000$79,842$70,522 References: 2021 2016 2011 Historical Census Data - Saint-Philippe, QuebecYearPop. ±% 1861 2,344— 1871 1,754−25. 4% 1921 1,264−21. 6% 1966 1,573+18. 3% 1976 2,292+38. 3% 1981 3,169+38. 5% 2006 5,121+31. 3% 2016 6,320+15. 0% 2021 7,597+20. 2% Population counts are not adjusted for boundary changes. The demographic composition of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Source: Statistics Canada Canada Census Mother Tongue - Saint-Philippe, Quebec Census Total French English French & English Other Year Responses Count Trend Pop % Count Trend Pop % Count Trend Pop % Count Trend Pop % 2021 7,595 6,605 13. 8% 2016 6,320 5,830 13. 1% 2011 5,480 5,125 5. 3% 2006 5,115 4,855 31. 7% 2001 3,875 3,685 5. 9% 1996 3,640 3,495 n/a 96. Cite error: The named reference cp2021a
was invoked but never defined (see the help page). “2021 Community Profiles”. 2021 Canadian census. Statistics Canada. February 4, 2022. Retrieved 2022-08-22. “2016 Community Profiles”. 2016 Canadian census. Statistics Canada. Retrieved 2022-04-29. “2011 Community Profiles”. 2011 Canadian census. Statistics Canada. Retrieved 2014-02-18. ^ a b 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016, 2021 census 6. “1971 Census of Canada - Population Census Subdivisions (Historical)”. The demographic composition of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. _Catalogue 92-702 Vol I, part 1 (Bulletin 1. Statistics Canada: 76, 139. ]: Population *[±%]: Percent change. The demographic composition of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life.
The cultural landscape of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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
The economic structure of Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.
Economic development opportunities in Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie.
Regional connectivity from Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Centre de services scolaire des Grandes-Seigneuries is the French school board. * École secondaire Fernand-Seguin in Candiac * École primaire des Moussaillons-et-de-la-Traversée (Saint-Philippe) * pavillon de la Traversée * pavillon des Moussaillons Riverside School Board serves as the English school board. * St. Lawrence Elementary School in Candiac * Heritage Regional High School in Longueuil 1. “École des Moussaillons | École des Moussaillons”. August 29, 2024. 2. “Riverside School Board”. Riverside School Board. 3. “St. Lawrence School”. 4. “Heritage Regional High School”.
Educational institutions in Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie
Successful visits to Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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 Saint-Philippe-de-La Prairie 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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