Aylmer Heritage Association hosts events to celebrate and preserve local heritage

Tashi Farmilo

The Aylmer Heritage Association (APA) is inviting the community to participate in two special events this February to celebrate Heritage Month. The association, dedicated to preserving and highlighting the unique characteristics of Old Aylmer, is hosting an open house and a volunteer day to raise awareness and support for the preservation of the area's historical treasures.

The open house event will take place on Sunday, February 25th, from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm at the old Methodist chapel, located at 495, chemin d'Aylmer. Built in 1827, the chapel is the oldest building in Gatineau. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the re-imagined exhibition space, meet members of the Association, and learn more about the heritage of Aylmer. The event is a chance to celebrate the area's rich history and to encourage community involvement in its preservation.

In addition to the open house, the APA is seizing the opportunity presented by the leap year to organize "The Overtime Day" on Thursday, February 29th, from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm. This volunteer event invites community members to assist the association in various tasks, including inventory management, organizing reference materials, and cataloging vintage costumes. The day offers a chance for volunteers to contribute to the preservation efforts while learning more about Aylmer's heritage.

The Aylmer Heritage Association emphasizes that the preservation of built heritage is not at odds with development and densification objectives. Instead, it enhances the community's appeal by maintaining its historical identity. The association hopes to engage as many people as possible in its efforts to ensure that Aylmer's heritage riches are preserved for future generations.

For those interested in attending the open house or volunteering on "The Overtime Day," please contact the Aylmer Heritage Association at

associationpatrimoineaylmer@gmail.com or visit their website at associationpatrimoineaylmer.com for further details.

Photo caption: Hosted by the APA: The open house is an event to celebrate Heritage Month, showcase the oldest building in Gatineau, and raise awareness about preserving Old Aylmer's historical treasures.

Photo credit: Courtesy of the Aylmer Heritage Association