Hidden Towns Beneath The St. Lawrence Seaway

Have you ever heard of the hidden towns beneath the St. Lawrence Seaway? These towns, once bustling with life, now lie submerged under the waters of the Seaway. In the 1950s, the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway required flooding several communities. Homes, schools, and businesses were all lost to make way for this massive project. Today, divers and historians find these underwater towns fascinating. They offer a unique glimpse into the past, frozen in time. Imagine walking down streets that once echoed with laughter, now silent and still. These hidden towns beneath the St. Lawrence Seaway hold stories waiting to be told.

The Lost Villages of Ontario

The St. Lawrence Seaway project, completed in 1959, transformed the landscape of Ontario. To make way for this massive engineering feat, several towns were flooded and now lie beneath the waters. These submerged towns, known as the Lost Villages, hold a unique place in Canadian history.

1. Aultsville

   • Once a bustling community, Aultsville had schools, churches, and a vibrant social life. Today, divers can explore remnants of its streets and buildings.

2. Farran’s Point

   • Known for its shipbuilding industry, Farran’s Point was a key player in the local economy. The town's remains now serve as a haunting underwater museum.

3. Mille Roches

   • Mille Roches was famous for its beautiful stone houses. These structures, now submerged, attract divers and history enthusiasts alike.

4. Wales

   • This small village had a rich agricultural heritage. The underwater ruins of Wales offer a glimpse into the farming life of the past.

The Sunken Towns of Quebec

Quebec also saw several towns submerged due to the St. Lawrence Seaway project. These towns, once full of life, now rest quietly beneath the water's surface.

5. Dollard-des-Ormeaux

   • Named after a French hero, this town had a strong sense of community. Its underwater remains are a testament to its storied past.

6. Iroquois

   • Iroquois was relocated before the flooding, but the original town site remains underwater. Divers can explore its submerged streets and foundations.

7. Pointe-Fortune

   • This town was known for its strategic location and trading post. The underwater ruins of Pointe-Fortune tell the story of its importance in regional trade.

8. St. Joseph d'Orléans

   • A small but vibrant community, St. Joseph d'Orléans was known for its church and local festivals. The church's underwater remains are a poignant reminder of the town's past.

The Underwater Ghost Towns of New York

The St. Lawrence Seaway also affected towns in New York. These ghost towns, now submerged, offer a unique underwater adventure for those interested in history and diving.

9. Barnhart Island

   • Once a thriving community, Barnhart Island now lies beneath the waters. Its submerged buildings and streets are a fascinating dive site.

10. Croil Island

    • Known for its beautiful landscapes, Croil Island was a popular spot for locals. The underwater ruins of its homes and gardens are a testament to its former beauty.

11. Waddington

    • Waddington was partially flooded, with some areas still above water. The submerged parts of the town offer a unique glimpse into its past.

12. Louisville Landing

    • This small town was known for its fishing industry. The underwater remains of Louisville Landing provide a fascinating look at its maritime heritage.

Discovering the Sunken Towns

The hidden towns beneath the St. Lawrence Seaway offer a unique glimpse into the past. These submerged communities, once bustling with life, now lie silent under the water. Exploring these towns can be a fascinating experience, whether through diving or visiting museums that showcase artifacts and stories from the era. The history of these towns is a reminder of the sacrifices made for progress and the resilience of the people who once lived there. If you're interested in history and adventure, these sunken towns are worth exploring. They provide a rare opportunity to connect with a piece of history that is often overlooked. So, next time you're near the St. Lawrence Seaway, take a moment to think about the towns that lie beneath the surface and the stories they have to tell.