Whapmagoostui
(In Cree: ᐙᐱᒫᑯᔥᑐᐃ - "Place of the Beluga")
(Wap-ma-goo-stu-e)
Whapmagoostui is a picturesque and culturally rich Cree community located in northern Quebec, Canada. Situated on the eastern shore of Hudson Bay at the mouth of the Great Whale River, it is one of the northernmost communities in the province. Whapmagoostui, meaning "Place of the Beluga" in the Cree language, reflects the area's deep connection to its natural surroundings and traditional way of life.
The town shares its location with the Inuit community of Kuujjuarapik, fostering a unique cultural exchange between the Cree and Inuit peoples. Whapmagoostui is accessible primarily by air or seasonal water routes, contributing to its remote and serene atmosphere.
With a population of approximately 1,000 residents, Whapmagoostui thrives on its close-knit community spirit and dedication to preserving Cree heritage. The local economy is supported by traditional activities such as hunting, fishing, and trapping, alongside modern ventures in education, administration, and tourism.
Rich in history and tradition, Whapmagoostui offers visitors an opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of the Cree people while enjoying the pristine beauty of the northern wilderness. The community also serves as a vital hub for fostering cultural and environmental sustainability in the region.
Our History
Whapmagoostui has a rich and storied history that reflects the deep cultural roots of the Cree people and their connection to the land. The area has been home to the Cree Nation for thousands of years, serving as a critical site for traditional hunting, fishing, and trapping activities.
The name "Whapmagoostui," meaning "Place of the Beluga," signifies the community's historical ties to the beluga whales that migrate through the waters near the Great Whale River and Hudson Bay.
European contact in the region began in the 17th century with the fur trade, as Hudson's Bay Company established trading posts along Hudson Bay to facilitate commerce with Indigenous peoples. Whapmagoostui became a key location for trade, with the Cree playing an essential role as trappers and traders. This interaction profoundly influenced the community's history, integrating new tools and goods into traditional ways of life.
In the 20th century, the community experienced significant change with the arrival of missionaries and the establishment of residential schools, which impacted traditional practices and culture. Despite these challenges, Whapmagoostui has remained a resilient and culturally vibrant community. The Cree have worked tirelessly to preserve their language, customs, and governance, while also engaging with modern education and economic opportunities.
The community shares its location with the Inuit settlement of Kuujjuarapik, which has fostered a unique relationship between the two groups. Historically, the Inuit and Cree peoples coexisted in the area, with periods of both collaboration and tension. Today, the two communities work together in many ways while maintaining distinct cultural identities.
Whapmagoostui has also been at the forefront of environmental advocacy, as its residents have resisted projects like the proposed Great Whale hydroelectric development in the 1990s, which threatened the local ecosystem and traditional Cree territory. The community's commitment to protecting the land and waterways remains a cornerstone of its identity.
Today, Whapmagoostui stands as a symbol of resilience and cultural pride, embodying a blend of ancient traditions and modern aspirations while continuing to honor its historical legacy.
Photos Taken by: Yves Tremblay
