Forges du Saint-Maurice National Historic Site of Canada

This national historic site is home to the remains of Canada’s first ironworks.
Established in 1730, the forges operated for over 150 years.
A visit to the site will reveal all about the production of iron and cast-iron objects that were essential to the needs of the military and village inhabitants at the time.
We’ll also tell you about the trades at the Forges, from the molder to the founder, the blacksmith and the charcoal-maker, all of whom had an important role to play in the colony!
The Forges du Saint-Maurice site is magnificent.
The beautiful and proud Grande Maison, its endless green spaces and the many archaeological remains that recall the birth and evolution of Canada’s first iron and steel industry will captivate you.
Activities: tours of the Grande Maison and the blast furnace, guided tours, multimedia show with model of the village, pedestrian circuit, interpretation trail with intelligent panels, hiking and picnic.

The big house

When you arrive, head for the Big House.
Inside, an interpreter-guide will welcome you and tell you about the variety of activities on offer.
You’ll be able to visit the original cellars of the vast building, featuring displays of the products that have made the Forges famous.
On the 2nd floor, you can watch a captivating sound and light show.
A huge, hyper-realistic model depicts the village of Les Forges in 1845, when the company was in its heyday.

Blast furnace sector

The tour then moves outside to the blast furnace area.
Here, for over 150 years, thousands of tons of cast iron were produced, essential for the manufacture of castings and iron objects.
The blast furnace is visually impressive!