Vallee Richelieu Attractions From its source in Lac Champlain,
south-east of Montréal, the Rivière Richelieu winds its way
northwards to enter the St Lawrence at Sorel. The 130 km (80
mi.) long river played a significant role in the history of both
New France and New England, but even before the arrival of
Europeans it was a busy trade route and communications corridor
for the Indians. During the period of Anglo-French conflict,
especially the years between 1754 and 1763, the Richelieu gave
the warring nations and their Indian allies two-way access to
the area east of Montréal. Only a few information boards along
the river's course now recall those troubled times; today the
quite delightful Richelieu Valley is the preserve of tourists
and others in search of relaxation. Boucherville still has a
large number of 18th c. houses, among which are La Chaumière
(416 rue Ste-Famille; built 1741), the Manoir Pierre-Boucher
(468-470 Bd. Marie-Victorin) and the Maison Lafontaine (1780).
In addition the church of St-Fami