For centuries, the St. Lawrence River has been at the heart of Canada’s story. Long before European explorers arrived, Indigenous peoples used its waters as vital travel routes, fishing grounds, and trading networks, shaping the rich cultural history of the region.
In the 16th century, French explorer Jacques Cartier sailed the St. Lawrence, paving the way for the establishment of New France. The river soon became a lifeline for early settlements, supporting the fur trade, agriculture, and the growth of communities that would eventually become major cities like Montreal and Quebec City.
Today, the St. Lawrence River remains one of Canada’s most iconic waterways. Flowing more than 3,000 kilometres from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, it continues to connect communities, support international trade, and inspire generations with its natural beauty and historical significance.
1535 – Jacques Cartier, with three ships, sails up the River which he has just discovered (1535) : Painted by Gudin.1800 – This engraving presents a view of Québec City from the river. Boats can be seen on the river.1870 – Saint Lawrence River and Village of Cédars : Lemaitre direxit.1870 – View of Québec City from the St. Lawrence River.1875 – Crossing the River St. Lawrence before Québec in Winter.1899 – Lake Saint-Pierre.1900 – Photograph of the city of Rimouski. Distant view.1910 – Boats on the St. Lawrence River.1914 – Sorel and Batiscan.1917 – Sorel- Warship on the river: Edgar Gariépy.1921 – Montmorency- Sailing ship sailing on the river: Reproduction by Edgar Gariépy.1927 – Photograph of the river and Lévis. It shows boats sailing on the river as well as buildings in the foreground.1927 – Québec – St. Lawrence River : Edgar Gariépy.1930 – Photograph of an unidentified vessel sailing on the river.1930 – Photograph of Sillery taken from the river. Saint-Michel Church can be seen in it.1930 – Photograph of the village of La Prairie.1933 – Photograph of a ship moored in the waters of the river opposite Montréal. People can be seen walking on the frozen river.1933 – Photograph of a ship moored on the river opposite Montréal. People can be seen walking on the frozen river.1950 – Photograph of Verchères on the banks. A boat can be seen sailing on the river.1963 – Nighttime observation of a dredge: Henri Rémillard.
Dalia, a photojournalist hailing from Montreal, is deeply passionate about documenting events and sharing stories about people's lives. She is on track to graduate from Concordia University with a degree in journalism and a minor in art history. Currently, Dalia holds the position of Editor-in-Chief at her school's newspaper, The Concordian. Following graduation, she aims to secure a full-time reporting job at a major news outlet.
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