km 14

The construction of the Soulanges Canal was a long and difficult undertaking. Throughout the excavation work, frequent landslides complicated the canal’s construction. The sections between Coteau-du-Lac and Les Coteaux were the most challenging. Their soil had a high concentration of soft, greasy blue clay, resulting in frequent landslides. Workers had to constantly reinforce the banks with riprap.

From May to September, the team worked 10 hours a day, earning $1.50 daily. Stonecutters and masons could earn up to $3.25 per day. Working conditions were extremely harsh, and 22 workers lost their lives during the seven years of construction of the Soulanges Canal.