LaSalle

Suddenly, a vision of canoes navigating treacherous rapids fills your mind. This is LaSalle. LaSalle hugs the southern shore of Montreal Island, right where the mighty St. Lawrence River churns into the Lachine Rapids. LaSalle wasn’t always part of Montreal. It began as a separate municipality, incorporated in 1912. Its namesake is the French explorer René-Robert Cavelier de La Salle, the area’s first seigneur. He arrived here in 1668, establishing a fortified town originally called Saint-Sulpice, later known as La Petite Chine, or Lachine. This area played a significant role in early trade routes. Before the Lachine Canal, goods had to be portaged around the rapids along a trail, the Chemin LaSalle, now LaSalle Boulevard. LaSalle boasts more than just its namesake’s legacy. It is home to Angrignon Mall, a bustling commercial hub, and the historic Fleming windmill, a symbol of the borough’s industrious past. The Lachine Canal and the Aqueduct Canal offer picturesque recreational spaces for residents and visitors. Nestled within LaSalle’s borders is the Île aux Hérons, a vital migratory bird refuge, and the fascinating Saints-Anges archaeological site, whispering tales of centuries past. LaSalle is also a borough of diverse neighborhoods, each with a distinct character. From the modern high-rises of Angrignon Est to the historic homes of the Highlands sector, LaSalle showcases a blend of architectural styles and community vibes. As you stand here, imagine the echoes of voyageurs and traders, the rush of the rapids, and the steady growth of a community that has embraced its past while looking towards the future. LaSalle: a place where history, nature, and urban life converge.