Efficient and Elegant Structures

All along the route, there are masonry structures and innovative designs that came from the imagination and vision of Chief Engineer Thomas Monro (1831–1903), which add to the beauty and efficiency of the new canal.

Near the locks, to prevent water overflow caused by their height, large water basins were built, featuring elegant arched footbridges that allowed lock operators to move from one side to the other.

Solid abutments were constructed on each bank of the canal to support the weight of swing bridges installed at road crossings.

In 1900, entrance lighthouses were erected at both ends of the canal to guide ships arriving from Lake Saint-Louis or Lake Saint-François. These vessels had to execute precise maneuvers to enter the canal and avoid the rapids of the St. Lawrence River.

View of the equipment and structures at the western entrance to Lock No. 5 of the canal, circa 1907
Source: © Collection of Luke De Stéphano

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.