A walk to discover Aylmer’s heritage

Drazen Seslija

A good dozen participants took part in an interpretive walk led by historian Lynne Rodier in the Aylmer area near the Auberge Symmes Museum on Sunday, September 27, 2026.

The activity offered participants the opportunity to explore the area’s cultural landscape through various historical elements. Place names, works of art, old photographs, historical maps, and select artifacts from the museum served as points of reference along the route.

The walk also provided a better understanding of the influence of the Ottawa River and Lake Deschênes on Aylmer’s development, as well as the role played by transportation routes, agriculture, and trade.

Two tours were offered over the weekend. The one on Sunday, September 27, titled “The Navigators’ Neighborhood: Sawmills, Navigation, and Vacation Resorts,” focused on the history closely tied to navigation and the activities that have shaped the area.

For participants who spoke with the Bulletin, the activity also provided an opportunity to rediscover their own neighborhood.

“I really like community-building events like these in Aylmer, and this was my first time visiting the museum!” said Ludovic Brazeau, a resident of Aylmer.

Lyne Beauregard, also a resident of Aylmer, appreciated the connection between physical activity and learning about history. “It gave me a chance to get some exercise and discover the cultural side of Aylmer. Our heritage is a rich part of our history as residents,” she explained.

At the end of the walk, participants had the chance to continue their exploration with a free, self-guided tour of the Auberge Symmes Museum.