In the Footsteps of our Ancestors
New France

The activity is part of the program La culture à l’école and can be subsidized. LEARN MORE HERE

About the activity

Travel back in time to the era of New France with a tour of the former Châteauguay seigneury and its historic mill!

Accompanied by our historical characters, your students will discover the daily lives of the region’s earliest inhabitants. They’ll meet the miller, who will explain how the mill works and the importance of wheat through an exciting relay race.

A local resident will then give them a glimpse into life in New France by discussing dietary habits, hygiene practices, and customs that shaped families’ daily lives.

As they follow in the footsteps of the first inhabitants in the heart of the refuge faunique Marguerite-D’Youville, students will also explore the vital role of the fur trade along the St. Lawrence River. They’ll have the opportunity to handle real furs and various period artifacts for a fun, hands-on historical experience in nature!

Through these interactive activities, games, and hands-on exploration of authentic objects, your students will experience history in a tangible and fun way in the exceptional setting of Île Saint-Bernard and the refuge faunique Marguerite-D’Youville.

The activity includes:

  • Our education team will lead activities and supervise the groups. We ask that educators and teachers stay with the groups to help manage them and enjoy the day.
  • Dedicated indoor spaces and/or picnic tables reserved for students.

On Île Saint-Bernard à Châteauguay.

Ideal for 4th, 5th and 6th grade primary school students.

Available as a full-day program only
Suggested schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (can be adjusted to suit your needs)

For the 2026-2027 school year

Per student, for full-day : 19 $ + tax

Free for teachers and chaperones, maximum three per group.

Our activities are part of the La culture à l'école program and can be funded. Page in French only.

Activities can be offered in bilingual upon request (if available). For more information, please contact us.

Available during spring and fall

→ Fill out the form

For more information, contact us at 450 698-3133 post 247 or at lydia.krascsenics@heritagestbernard.qc.ca

  • maximum of 2 classes at a time
  • Indoor spaces are reserved for the lunch period.
  • The activities take place outdoors and may be rescheduled in case of inclement weather.
Avis aux visiteurs

Mercredi 26 mars
Fermeture exceptionnelle à 15 h

L'assemblée générale annuelle (AGA) d'Héritage Saint-Bernard aura lieu à 16 h, au centre écologique Fernand-Seguin.

Afin que tous nos employés puissent y participer, le Café et le Pavillon de l’île fermeront exceptionnellement à 15 h.

Merci de votre compréhension