Chelsea invites residents to help choose their official name

Tashi Farmilo

As part of its 150^th anniversary, the Municipality of Chelsea is inviting residents to help define a meaningful part of the town’s identity: choosing an official name—also known as a gentilé—for the people who live here. The public consultation, led by the Recreation Department, runs till May 28 and encourages the community to suggest thoughtful, original ideas that could become part of Chelsea’s story for generations to come.

While Chelsea’s heritage dates back to 1875, when its first municipal council was formed, there has never been a widely recognized or officially adopted term for its population. In the context of this milestone year, the municipality sees the naming process as a way to both celebrate its deep roots and express its evolving, inclusive spirit. The anniversary slogan, “Honouring our roots, cultivating our future,” reflects this dual vision.

Submissions should aim to capture the character of Chelsea, while being respectful of both official languages and inclusive in gender expression and must align with the toponymic standards of Québec. To guide the creative process, residents might look to examples such as Chelseans, Chelseaites, or Chelsoniens, while also exploring more imaginative or locally meaningful options that reflect the town’s bilingualism and cultural landscape. Ultimately, the chosen name should feel authentic to Chelsea’s identity and resonate with both newer arrivals and long-established families.

Beyond the practical task of choosing a name, the initiative is seen as a way to strengthen community bonds and celebrate shared identity. It’s a rare opportunity for residents to contribute something lasting, a name that will reflect who they are and where they belong.

To take part, visit the consultation page:
https://consultations.chelsea.ca/projects/consultation-publique-pour-trouver-un-gentile-aux-residentes-de-chelsea