History is everywhere along Shefford Street. Heritage façades stand shoulder to shoulder with lively cafés, restaurants, and boutiques. Yet what defines Old-Bromont today is the energy.

It didn’t always look like this. In the late 18th century, this landscape was dense forest travelled by the Abenaki and home to abundant wildlife. American Loyalists later arrived with a mandate to develop the surrounding townships. In 1793, Captain John Savage settled here with his family, helping attract new settlers and leaving a lasting mark on what would become Bromont.

Thanks to its close proximity to the Yamaska River and early railway lines, the area soon evolved into a small industrial centre known as West Shefford, with butter dairies, butcher shops, saddlers, and grain merchants shaping the village economy. Over time, that industrial past gave way to the charming modern-day tourist destination we know today.

Exploring the village’s past

Old-Bromont has carefully preserved its architectural heritage. Interpretation panels throughout the village reveal the stories behind many of its historic buildings. Stop by the Tourist Information Office and you’ll also find a micro-museum filled with fascinating anecdotes that bring the village’s past vividly to life.

Historic buildings, new stories: 

Old-Bromont’s buildings reflect a prosperous industrial past – and remain just as lively today as homes to welcoming local businesses. Two addresses capture this spirit particularly well.

Antiques, décor & much more:LA BELLE VIEILLERIE

The charming buildings that now house La Belle Vieillerie once served as the Kennedy store, a gathering place for farmers in the late 1800s. Today, sisters Catherine and Jessica continue their family tradition through their shop – the oldest business on Shefford Street. Inside, antiques, decorative objects, vintage jewellery, and artisan pieces crafted from reclaimed materials mingle with thoughtfully selected second-hand clothing.

Gifts & décor: EMA ROSE

The Maison Leduc-Normandin has lived many lives: a milliner’s workshop, a lively home for a family of ten children, a funeral parlour, and even a restaurant. Today, its distinctive architecture houses Ema Rose, a charming boutique curated by owner Joliane. Elegant displays showcase decorative pieces, lamps, furniture, and a wide selection of Québec-made products.