Municipality of
Thorne, Quebec
History of Thorne
History of Ladysmith, Quebec
On May 1st, 1861, the township of Thorne was officially separated from Clarendon, becoming an independent entity. However, Thorne was still too small to establish its own municipality, as the required population threshold for that status was 300. As a result, Thorne was annexed by the municipality of Leslie. In 1867, a new arrangement was made: Leslie became independent, and Thorne joined with the neighboring township of Cawood, forming the United Townships of Thorne and Cawood.
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At the County Council Quarterly Meeting on September 13, 1876, a petition was presented by the residents of the townships of Alleyn and Cawood, requesting to be de-annexed from Thorne. The County Council approved this request on December 26, 1876. Just six days later, on January 1, 1877, the Township of Thorne officially became a Municipal Corporation, with Mr. John Rennix serving as its first mayor. Mr. Rennix was succeeded by Mr. James Martin in 1879. Both men had previously served as mayors during Thorne's time as part of other municipalities.
Rennix and Martin had guided Thorne through sixteen years of reorganization, from its separation from Clarendon in 1861 to its full municipal status in 1877.
Nearly 130 years later, the municipality of Thorne continues to thrive, despite its long history. Many families of German descent have called the area home for generations, and people still return, either as permanent residents or to visit relatives. The strong family ties within the community endure. Thorne has also embraced new residents who have chosen to settle in the area, contributing to its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
The area's stunning lakes have contributed to a significant increase in the number of cottages, as many people flock to Thorne during the summer months to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and the tranquility the region offers. Its proximity to the cities of Ottawa and Gatineau makes Thorne a convenient and peaceful retreat for those seeking respite from urban life.
Like much of the world, the Municipality of Thorne has experienced significant evolution over the past century. It will be fascinating to see the direction in which the community moves over the next hundred years. However, just as our forebears faced challenges with resilience, the residents of Thorne—whether full-time or seasonal—remain ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of the future.