A new Quebec‑based podcast produced by CBC Montreal, together with local community groups and residents, is documenting the 100‑year anniversary of Rouyn‑Noranda. The series, released throughout 2026, follows the city’s centennial celebrations and offers listeners a guided tour of the milestones that have shaped the mining town since its founding in 1926.
The audio program weaves together on‑the‑ground reporting from community participants with archival material that traces the city’s rapid growth after the Noranda mine opened. That mine sparked a gold and copper rush, drawing prospectors and families from across the globe to the remote region of western Quebec. Over the ensuing decades, the influx of settlers built a diverse cultural fabric that continues to define Rouyn‑Noranda today.
Listeners hear accounts of the year‑long festivities planned by the municipality and local organizations, including street fairs, historical exhibitions, and concerts that highlight the city’s heritage. The podcast also features interviews with long‑time residents who share personal recollections of how the mining industry influenced daily life, education, and the built environment. By pairing these narratives with present‑day event coverage, the series illustrates how the community balances remembrance of its industrial roots with aspirations for future development.
The collaboration between CBC Montreal and Rouyn‑Noranda’s civic groups underscores the importance of media partnerships in preserving regional history. As the city marks a century since the Noranda mine’s opening, the podcast serves both as a celebration of past achievements and a platform for residents to voice hopes for the next hundred years. The series is available on major streaming platforms and is promoted through local venues, inviting a broad audience to engage with the story of Rouyn‑Noranda’s evolution from a mining camp to a modern Quebec city.