The LeNoir Forge a Nova Scotia Provincial Heritage Building, long-associated with the LeNoir family, was built before 1826. During this period of history shipbuilding and repair was flourishing on Isle Madame. The forge produced materials that were used in this industry. By the end of the 19th century the heyday of wooden sailing ships was over, business dwindled and the forge eventually fell into disrepair.
The Isle Madame Board of Trade took on the sponsorship to restore this stone building as a 1967 centennial and municipal project. The forge is a one and half story structure of Acadian proportions. At the time of restoration the north and south walls were practically intact; however, many stones were missing from the east wall. The west wall had to be completely rebuilt.
The LeNoir Forge Museum houses a working forge operated by volunteers, and a collection of tools and artifacts that tell some of the stories of the people of Isle Madame. The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm in June. In July and August, it is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Sept. to mid Oct. the museum is opened Tuesday to Friday 1:00 – 5:00. The remainder of the year, the museum is open by appointment.
