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Black and white photograph of a dogsled race on the Des Prairies River in winter. Hundreds of people are standing on the river’s snowy shore and six dogs harnessed together are pulling a sled.

Property of Pierre Boily, Dogsled race on the Marigot [backwater] in winter, circa 1939

When we talk about how rivers are used, we usually think about summer. But for decades, people were eager for winter to come so they could take advantage of the thick ice that formed. It had many uses. Residents could travel from one shore to another without paying a toll. They also enjoyed winter activities such as skating and even dogsled racing! Pierre Boily, a resident of Pont-Viau, shared with us this photograph of a childhood memory. Who would believe that this type of activity took place on the Des Prairies River!