Episode 11: Des forges street

Rue des Forges, the main commercial artery of Trois-Rivières, owes its name to the Saint-Maurice Ironworks, the first industrial establishment in Canada located north of the city. Considered the country's first iron industry, the Ironworks produced a variety of iron objects, ranging from wood stoves to cannonballs.

A major fire in 1908 struck the downtown area and completely changed its appearance. It was rebuilt with a uniform architectural style inspired by the city of Boston: three-story buildings combining shops and apartments.

In the 20th century, the city became an economic hub thanks to the pulp and paper industry, benefiting from the natural resources of the Mauricie region. Four large factories were established, each attracting numerous workers, thereby accelerating demographic and economic growth. In 1927, Trois-Rivières was recognized as the world capital of newsprint.

Throughout the ages, Rue des Forges has always been a place filled with shops, restaurants, and social life. Even today, Rue des Forges remains the heart of Trois-Rivières' vitality.