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River Crossings. The river has always been the backbone of the Gatineau Hills. The swiftly flowing waterway was a boon to Indigenous hunters, fur traders and logging companies, but at one time in history it was a huge impediment to farmers and other residents, delaying progress for decades. Until 1914, there were no bridges in the central Gatineau Valley and all crossings had to be made by scow or small boat in spring and summer, and by ice bridges in winter. This photograph shows farmer Levi Reid from the
River Crossings. The river has always been the backbone of the Gatineau Hills. The swiftly flowing waterway was a boon to Indigenous hunters, fur traders and logging companies, but at one time in history it was a huge impediment to farmers and other residents, delaying progress for decades. Until 1914, there were no bridges in the central Gatineau Valley and all crossings had to be made by scow or small boat in spring and summer, and by ice bridges in winter. This photograph shows farmer Levi Reid from the east shore arriving at Farm Point ready to journey along the west side where the area's community services were located.
(Photo - GVHS #01319)