An Impressive Undertaking
The construction of the Soulanges Canal began in June 1892. The 23.4-kilometer route passed through four municipalities: Pointe-des-Cascades, Les Cèdres, Coteau-du-Lac, and Coteau-Landing (now Les Coteaux).
The construction site was divided into 13 sections, each assigned to a different private contractor which would be responsible for the execution and management of their part. Each contract outlined the specifics of the work to be done, the materials to use, and the deadlines to be met. All sections were built simultaneously to reduce the overall construction time.
The scope of work varied from section to section, but the main tasks involved excavating the canal, building various structures (locks, jetties, and abutments), and performing masonry work. Construction took place primarily from May to October each year.
Contractors faced numerous challenges, from innovating techniques and materials to dealing with the natural instability of the ground. The complexity of the work led to constant conflicts between engineers and contractors, many of whom failed to meet their contractual obligations.
Over the seven years of construction, 7 out of the 13 sections had their contract cancelled and transferred to other contractors, resulting in additional costs and significant delays.
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