Saint-Jérôme’s Iron Bridge, Built in 1886

The Rivière du Nord was an essential resource and the economic engine of the small town of Saint-Jérôme. Far too often, though, spring floodwaters would destroy the few bridges spanning the river. In April 1885, while Labelle was in Europe, all the bridges on the Rivière du Nord were swept away by a sudden spate. At Saint-Jérôme, the damage was significant: the red bridge, which had just been built, was destroyed, and the bridge belonging to the Rolland mill was also carried away. Never since its founding had the town suffered a disaster on this scale. Before long, there was talk of building an iron bridge. Just like their priest, the residents of Saint-Jérôme were determined to improve their town’s infrastructure. They felt Saint-Jérôme needed a durable, yet elegant structure to help consolidate the progress and advancement of their community.