In the Township of Potton, the sense of place runs deeper than coordinates on a map—it’s a pulse, a memory, a shared breath. It’s the echo of boots on a dance floor, the warmth of a campfire after a long day in the woods, the steady rhythm of tires on gravel as cyclists rise with the land, and the hush of stories unfolding beneath a maple’s shade. But as development gains momentum and the familiar contours of the community begin to shift, many long-time residents find themselves quietly asking: Has our place changed—or have we simply lost sight of it?
A Mosaic of Interests, A Patchwork of Belonging
Potton is rich in diversity—not just in its natural beauty, but in the passions of its people. Some find their place in the woods with a rifle, while others find theirs in streams and lakes with a fishing rod. Some carve it out on hiking trails, ski slopes, or golf greens. Still others feel most at home in music halls, dance floors, or literary circles. These varied interests form a vibrant mosaic, but they also present a challenge: How do we cohabitate when our sense of place begins to feel infringed upon?
The answer lies in empathy and intentional community-building. When one group’s activities dominate the cultural landscape, others may feel pushed out—not by malice, but by imbalance.
A Story That Stings: When Home Stops Feeling Like Home
I recently spoke with a woman who grew up in Mansonville and still lives here. She’s a business owner, an event organizer, and a passionate contributor to the region. Yet today, she runs her events in a neighbouring municipality—not because she wants to, but because she no longer feels at home in her own town.
Her story hit me hard. It’s not just about logistics or economics—it’s about identity. It’s about the emotional dislocation that occurs when the places we love no longer reflect who we are.
Cultural Hubs: More Than Just Business
Over the years, many cultural hubs have quietly disappeared—not only in Mansonville, but across the Eastern Townships. Thankfully, a few businesses are beginning to reopen or change hands, offering a glimmer of hope. Yet one venue in particular stood out for its lasting impact. To some, it may have seemed like just another bar or restaurant. But to others—especially those who fish, hunt, and embrace country living—it was something far more meaningful.
It was a cultural anchor. A gathering place where fishing tournaments, hunting parties, and impromptu country nights brought people together in celebration and connection. In truth, every night felt like a country night. Its closure didn’t just leave a blank spot on the calendar—it left a void in the community's soul. For many, it was a cornerstone of identity, a place where traditions were not only honoured but lived.
This isn’t simply sentimentality. It’s a powerful reminder that physical spaces hold emotional weight. They tether us to each other, to our shared stories, and to the rhythms of community life. When those spaces vanish, so too can the sense of belonging that once held us together.
How Do We Rebuild?
Rebuilding a sense of place isn’t about nostalgia—it’s about moving forward with purpose. It means cultivating belonging, honouring our roots, and embracing the full spectrum of voices in our community. Here are a few ways we can do that:
- Community Conversations
Let’s create welcoming forums where residents can share what home truly means to them. These spaces can spark dialogue, deepen understanding, and help shape a shared vision for the future.
- Events for Everyone
While Potton’s municipality already offers a rich variety of activities, we might consider reintroducing some of the diverse programming once hosted by local cultural hubs.
- Celebrate Our Heritage
Tools like Potton’s interactive historical circuits offer a powerful way to reconnect with the stories that shaped our region. Let’s continue to explore and celebrate the legacy that lives in our landscapes and landmarks.
- Elevate Displaced Voices
Many, like the woman from Mansonville, feel unheard. It’s time to welcome them back—not just as attendees, but as leaders and co-creators of our community’s future. Their experiences and insights are crucial to creating a space that truly belongs to everyone.
A Place for All
Potton’s strength lies in its ability to hold multiple identities at once—heritage and innovation, tradition and change. But that strength requires care. We must acknowledge that development, while often essential for progress, can quietly reshape the cultural fabric of a place. It’s up to us—residents, organizers, leaders—to guide that growth with intention, ensuring that everyone, from lifelong locals to new arrivals, feels a genuine sense of belonging.
Because a sense of place isn’t just about where you are. It’s about who you’re allowed to be when you’re there.
To know more about the sense of place:
Why sense of place is important
Character Counts: How to Create a Sense of Place in Your Community