Waskaganish
A Cree Community At The Rupert River Mouth, On The Site Of The First Hudson'S Bay Company Post (Fort Charles, 1668), With A Community Cultural Centre, The Rupert River Rapids And A Long Goose Hunting Tradition. A Heritage Fishing And Hunting Community On The Rupert River Bay · Waskaganish, Quebec
Waskaganish is a Cree community of about 2,500 people at the mouth of the Rupert River on James Bay, roughly 1,000 to 1,100 km north of Montreal. The name is said to mean little house in Cree, and the community stands on one of the oldest trading sites of the bay: in 1668 an English expedition built Charles Fort here, the first Hudson Bay Company post, and the place was later known as Rupert House. Today it is a living Cree town with a school, stores, a cultural centre and a long tradition of fishing, trapping and the spring and autumn goose hunt. The Rupert River, once a great canoe route, was partly diverted for hydro power, and many people here have strong views on that change. A paved side road of roughly 100 km leaves the James Bay Road to reach the village, so the visit asks for planning, with fuel, food and lodging arranged ahead. Visitors who come with patience and respect often find the warmest welcome of the trip.
Waskaganish, a Cree community of about 2,500 people at the mouth of the Rupert River on James Bay, reached by road about 1,100 km north of Montreal; coordinates approximate, Waskaganish, Quebec, Canada
Waskaganish keeps no formal visiting hours because it is a living community. The cultural centre, craft sellers, the hotel desk and stores are generally open about 9 to 5 on weekdays, with shorter weekend hours - confirm by phone before the drive. Boat trips on the Rupert River and the bay depend on tide, wind and a guide. The goose break in late April and May and the autumn hunt close offices and schools for a week or two while families go out to camp. Winter days are short and the road conditions can slow travel, so confirm before leaving the main highway.