Soulanges Canal Heritage Study
Built between 1892 and 1899, the Soulanges Canal connects Lake Saint Francis to Lake Saint Louis, facilitating trade with the Great Lakes. Its sinuous course passes through cultural landscapes with diverse historical, landscape, and archaeological features. In 1902, a hydroelectric power plant was built enabling the canal’s continuous use by providing innovative lighting and electrical operation of its technical components. In service until 1969, the canal’s influence on the region and local communities endures to this day.
To support the thoughtful and sustainable development of the future Soulanges Canal Park, EVOQ conducted a heritage interest study. This study, grounded in historical and contemporary surveys of the canal's surroundings and an analysis of its historic role, seeks to guide future interventions while preserving and integrating existing components reflecting the site’s values.
Mark Elsworthy
Bernard Hébert, archaeological heritage analyst
The Soulanges Canal embodies key elements of sustainable development oriented around social, cultural, economic, and environmental factors. The ecosystems associated with the canal are of central importance to its revitalization. This study adopts the perspective that the site in evolving, acknowledging both the past and future impacts of the canal on the land it occupies. The approach is directed toward sensible and eco-responsible development.
