Legendary French Canadian Raftsman Jos Montferrand Designated as National Historic Person

GATINEAU, QC, Aug. 19, 2024 — Canada has a rich tapestry of history, woven with tales of extraordinary individuals who have shaped the nation’s identity. Today, one such figure, Jos Montferrand, has been officially recognized as a National Historic Person by the Government of Canada, an honor that cements his place in the annals of Canadian folklore.

The announcement was made by the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada. Montferrand, a 19th-century French Canadian folk hero, was known for his extraordinary physical strength, courage, and unyielding spirit. As a foreman and master raftsman in the Ottawa Valley’s lumber industry, Montferrand’s exploits not only captivated his contemporaries but also became the stuff of legend, passed down through plays, novels, and songs.

Montferrand, who stood nearly two meters tall—an impressive height for his time—was a towering figure both literally and figuratively. His feats included winning boxing matches in Montréal, where his unparalleled strength and fighting prowess earned him the title of Canadian boxing champion. Beyond his physical abilities, Montferrand was celebrated for his role as a protector of French Canadians, embodying the resilience and determination of a community navigating the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Revered as ‘Joe Mufraw’ in the United States, Montferrand’s legend spread beyond Canada, carried by French Canadian loggers who traveled across North America. His story is a vivid illustration of the masculine culture that thrived in the working-class world of the 19th century, particularly in the grueling conditions of lumber camps.

The designation of Montferrand as a National Historic Person is a testament to his enduring legacy. The initiative to honor Montferrand was led by the Maison des Cageux (Raftsmen House), a museum dedicated to preserving the history of raftsmen who navigated the St. Lawrence River. Co-founders Isabelle Regout and Alexandre Pampalon expressed pride in the recognition, noting that Montferrand’s story is integral to understanding the maritime heritage of Canada.

Minister Guilbeault highlighted the significance of this designation, stating, “Jos Montferrand is foundational to the stories of the legendary raftsmen of the St. Lawrence River. He is emblematic of the courage and physical strength working-class French Canadians embraced in lumber camps, and inspired novelists and songwriters who were captivated by his exploits.”

This honor is part of Parks Canada’s broader mission to commemorate the people, places, and events that have shaped Canada’s history. With over 2,240 designations nationwide, the program seeks to connect Canadians with their past, fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse and complex stories that define the nation.

For those interested in learning more about the designation process or nominating a person, place, or event of historic significance, Parks Canada encourages visits to their website.

Jos Montferrand’s story, larger than life, continues to inspire and resonate, reminding us of the rich cultural heritage that forms the backbone of Canada’s national identity.