09/01/2025
Val-Jalbert was a model company village, founded in 1901 by industrialist Damase Jalbert to house workers for his pulp mill on the Ouiatchouan River. The village featured modern infrastructure and diverse housing, but its existence depended on the mill. Following a pulp industry crisis, the mill closed in 1927, leading to the village's abandonment. Today, the well-preserved historic site serves as a tourist destination, showcasing its original layout and infrastructure.
Founding and Growth
1901: Damase Jalbert founded the village to support his new pulp mill, utilizing the power of the Ouiatchouan River's falls.
Company Village: Val-Jalbert was a "company town" where the company owned the site and buildings, planning the community with diverse housing for its workforce.
Modern Features: For its time, Val-Jalbert was a modern village, featuring electricity, indoor plumbing, and other amenities uncommon elsewhere in Quebec.
Decline and Abandonment
Industry Crisis: A crisis in the pulp industry led to layoffs in 1924.
Mill Closure: The mill officially closed its doors in August 1927 due to financial difficulties.
Desertion: With the closure of the mill, the inhabitants left the deserted site.
Preservation and Tourism
Government Acquisition: The Quebec government acquired the facilities in 1949, and the site opened to visitors in 1960.
Historic Site: The village is now largely intact, a well-preserved example of industrial architecture and a unique company village.
Tourist Destination: Val-Jalbert is a popular tourist site, where visitors can explore the mill, various buildings, and the natural beauty of the river and falls.