In the late 1960's through to the 70's, the Chateauguay Valley Highland Pipe band, existed in Huntingdon, QC. Mid 1989, 4 members of that band re-grouped for practice and some public performances. Gradually the numbers grew, with the aim of keeping this part of our Scottish heritage alive. Officially, we registered the Elgin & District Pipe band as a non-profit organization and painted the logo on our bass drum in 1997. The group is based in Huntingdon, Qc. and primarily performs in the Chateauguay Valley, Montreal area, Northern New York and Vermont.
In 2000, through an RCMP officer (one of the side drummer’s husband), the RCMP Community Pipe band concept was presented. The RCMP had a newly minted tartan created for their 125th Anniversary in 1997, and at the same time, authorized a kilted uniform for use in these community pipe bands. The Band chose in 2002 to have a dual identity: The Elgin and District Pipe band, with a more civilian pipe band look, and The RCMP Division "C" Pipe band, with the more regimental RCMP look. The RCMP tartan kilt is common to both. The RCMP supported the group by supplying 12 uniforms. The 1st function of the new look band was a parade in Woonsocket, R.I. in Oct 2002.
The pipe band is currently under the direction of
Pipe Major Wanda Goundrey &
Drum Major Mike Berube.