The Isle Madame Historical Society

Located on Cape Breton’s southernmost tip, Isle Madame has a rich history that enthusiasts have sworn to protect. The Isle Madam Historical Society was born out of this pride and determination.

First inhabited in 1713, the island was apparently named in honour of Louis XIV’s second wife, Madame De Maintenon.

The Society’s mission is to collect, preserve and exhibit artefacts and documents relating to the island’s social, cultural and natural history for the benefit of current and future generations. Visitors will find all this and more in the museum at 708 Veterans Memorial Drive.

The Society’s splendid site includes a genealogy centre, community archives, the Le Noir Forge Museum, a large boat barn that’s been converted into an exhibition hall, as well as a gift shop. You’ll quickly realize that Isle Madame was a busy shipbuilding and repair hub at one point in its history.

The Le Noir Forge Museum will thrill and amaze you! Special events are also held at various times in the summer, so ask about them before you visit.