Saguenay, Québec
La Petite Maison Blanche (The Little White House)
The little house that stood up to a disastrous flood has become a symbol of perseverance.
Even after a number of massively destructive floods, La Petite Maison Blanche (The Little White House) stood firm against the torrents despite its near-century-long existence.
This simple home, square and unremarkable, was constructed in 1900 in the town formerly known as Chicoutimi. When a nearby dam overflowed due to an employee mistake the resulting flood caused minor damage to the town and it was not much of a surprise that the house remained. However, in 1996 when the same dam overflowed due to heavy rains the destruction was widespread, wiping away every other building surrounding the small white abode. The Little White House stood for four days while raging waters ran all around its base. When the flooding stopped the house was still standing tall and acted as a bright symbol of perseverance for the water-logged town.
Currently, La Petite Maison Blanche houses a museum which commemorates the floods. Instead of more structures around the house, a placid park was established all around the empty grounds. No matter what comes in the future this house will probably be the last thing standing.
Contributed by
Kilgore Trout
