Discover the remains of the first iron industry in Canada, the Forges du Saint-Maurice, in the Mauricie region halfway between Montréal and Québec City. Step into the Grande Maison (the “ironmasters’ house”) to admire the iron and cast iron items manufactured at the forges, then stop at the blast furnace to learn more about this community of craftsmen who, for 150 years, provided the objects needed for the development and defense of the colony.
In Mauricie, halfway between Montréal and Québec City, discover the remains of Canada’s first industrial village. Enter the Grande Maison to admire the iron and cast iron pieces made at the Forges, then stop at the blast furnace to learn more about this community of artisans who, for 150 years, provided both military and domestic items. Plan your picnic and take full advantage of the vast site surrounding the rich history of the Forges near the Saint-Maurice river.
What to do?
In addition to the exhibits and the indoor multimedia show, take some time to discover new features:
The new immersive experience “1600°C trial by fire” will immerse you in the unknown world of the blast furnace workers. Follow the instructions of the master founder and try to perform all the steps of the cast iron manufacturing process. Will you be a good apprentice? Come live the experience with the new immersive installation designed to put you to the test and see if you’re up to it! Shovel, load, skim . . . and heat it up!
“Diabolus ex machina” is an audio tour by Fred Pellerin. This walking tour is in the form of a false documentary which will immerse you in the historical and legendary universe of Forges-du-Saint-Maurice, seen through the playful glasses of the storyteller. The storytelling course is available in 14 audio capsules accessible directly on your smart device or by using one of the portable devices available on site. (The audio path is offered only in French but a written English translation is available.)