The word ponchon is a term used in the Îles de la Madeleine to refer to a molasses barrel and also happens to play a key role in one of the region’s most popular stories.

In the early 20th century, when winter came, the only way for the Islanders to communicate with the rest of the world was by telegraph. However, during the winter of 1910, the underwater cable connecting them to the mainland broke. With no means of communication and fearing that they would sooner or later run out of supplies, the Islanders decided to launch a ponchon equipped with a sail, which they had filled with letters to the governments asking for assistance.

Two weeks later, the ponchon was found by a passerby on a beach on Cape Breton Island, in Nova Scotia. He opened the barrel, read the letters and, realizing the gravity of the situation, took it upon himself to mail them. Some time later, ships arrived at the Islands to provide assistance to the population. What a story, right?

Travel to the Îles de la Madeleine to discover for yourself the Islands’ rich and colourful repertoire of tales and legends. You’re sure to be delighted!

Photo credit: Illustration of the ponchon, reproduced in the Îles de la Madeleine Official Tourist Guide