The Roads That Shaped île Jésus (1926–1972)

Long before Laval became the city we know today, Île Jésus underwent a major transformation with the arrival of Quebec’s first major provincial highways.

Between 1926 and 1972, these new routes changed the way people travelled, connected communities, and envisioned the territory. This talk invites you on a journey through time to discover how four major roads helped shape the island: Route 8 to the Outaouais region, Route 11 to the Laurentians, Route 18 to Saint-Donat, and Route 38, a now-disappeared roadway that once circled the entire island. Together, these routes tell the story of the emergence of a modern road network and the early innovations of Quebec’s Department of Highways, from road surfacing to snow-removal techniques.

Speaker

Philippe Aubry is the creator of Histoire d’un Nord, a YouTube channel dedicated to the history of the Laurentians. Both a historian and a truck driver, he specializes in transportation history. His series on the Route 11 corridor—the predecessor of today’s Highway 117—received an award from the Fédération Histoire Québec in 2024.

Coffee and light refreshments will be served during this informal discussion, hosted by our in-house facilitator Maxime, whose contagious enthusiasm always makes for a lively exchange.

Psst! Your ticket also includes self-guided admission to the House’s two exhibitions. Take the opportunity to extend your visit and make the most of the experience!

Credit : SHGIJ