The First Nations inhabited this region well over 8000 years ago. In the 1600s, the French explored it. The Aboriginals passed on to them their sciences and technology regarding the conditions the environment imposed upon the lives of people. Many of them used their skills and knowledge to guide the French explorers during the 17th and 18th centuries.
The Ottawa River and its multiple affluents like the Rideau and Gatineau rivers and, upstream, the Mattawa, played for thousands of years a major role in the transportation of goods and people as well as in trade, the gradual establishment of the First Nations and the settlement of men and women from all over the world.
The exhibition Vanier-on-the-Ottawa, Today for Tomorrow recognizes the heroism of the First Nations and French pioneers who have explored the territory and fostered the emergence of habitats conducive to life, peace and prosperity. Pioneers, along with other settlers from the 19th century onwards, gave us enviable living conditions that will continue to improve for the well-being of all the citizens of Vanier. The exhibition also outlines the major input and roles of the community leaders who have promoted the evolution of Vanier throughout its multifaceted fields of life.
The Ottawa River, Mattawa River, Lake Nipissing, French River and the Great Lakes navigation network formed the Northern route that travellers preferred. The development of the region and the country depended largely on this route, marked over time with hope, perseverance and an active presence of people. This route has led us to Vanier-on-the-Ottawa.
