Wednesday, July 20, 2022

My Canal

Article written by Martin Paquin, former lock keeper at the Lachine Canal National Historic Site

I worked for many years at the Lachine Canal locks as a lock keeper and supervisor. I loved going there every day and meeting my "second family," as I often liked to call my valued colleagues. When we were together, the days flew by; boaters were sure to receive exemplary service, and shore visitors were happy to come and chat with us on the grounds. We were always available to tell the story of the canal and explain the operation of the locks to interested people.  

One morning, a charming woman in her eighties came to tell me that she had spent her youth on the banks of the Lachine Canal, when her husband operated the locks just as I was doing. That was over 50 years earlier and the memories were as sharp as ever. Spontaneously, I asked the lady if she wanted to assist me with the day's operations. Filled with emotion, she was delighted to operate the door to release the boats that were in my lock. This moment brought great joy to us both; we took pictures and exchanged a few words, and she left with a huge smile on her face.

To tell you how proud I was that day to have contributed to that lady's happiness... it's indescribable. Wearing my Parks Canada uniform, I felt like I had made a difference in someone's life. I often felt that way over the years that followed; working at the Lachine Canal National Historic Site means literally being a part of the lives of the people you meet, and above all, it means leaving your mark on an already rich history.