Seasonal Employment

As ice on the St. Lawrence River brought canal operations to a halt during the winter, most jobs at the Soulanges Canal were seasonal. With the exception of a few highly specialized positions, workers followed twelve-hour shifts, alternating between day and night schedules.

In the early 20th century, despite the demanding working conditions, wages remained low, averaging $9 per week.

Diver René Chevrier emerging from the water, circa 1915
Source: © Collection of the Société de recherches historiques de Pointe-des-Cascades

This income, paid only during the sailing season, required workers to demonstrate adaptability and ingenuity to successfully balance the family budget throughout the year.

It wasn't until the Second World War and the federal government's adoption of the Unemployment Insurance Act in July 1941 that workers' wages improved and winters became more comfortable.

Repair of the gates of Lock No. 4 in Les Cèdres, October 1918
Source: © Vaudreuil-Soulanges Archives Center, Soulanges Canal Collection, i03-1-212

This project was carried out as part of the cultural development agreement (2024) between the Quebec Ministry of Culture and Communications (MCC) and the MRC of Vaudreuil-Soulanges (MRCVS). It is also made possible through the support of the MRCVS and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MAMH) under the 'Signature Innovation' component of the Regions and Rurality Fund.