Archaeologists excavate haunted François-Leclerc house in Quebec

Archaeologists and researchers conducted public excavations at the reputed haunted François-Leclerc house in Notre-Dame-des-Neiges, Quebec, during the summer of 2024 ^[1], ^[2].

The effort blends historical preservation with local folklore, as officials seek to secure the physical integrity of a building central to regional legends. By uncovering artifacts before the structure is solidified, the project ensures that the material history of the site is documented before permanent stabilization occurs ^[1], ^[2].

The Maison François-Leclerc was built in 1824 ^[3]. It has since become a landmark in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, known as much for its architectural age as for the ghost stories associated with its halls ^[2], ^[3].

Municipal officials of Notre-Dame-des-Neiges supported the initiative to safeguard the site ^[1]. The preservation budget for the house totals $200,000 ^[1], ^[3]. This funding covers the archaeological digs and the subsequent work required to prevent the building from deteriorating further ^[1].

The public nature of the excavations allowed the community to engage with the process of uncovering the home's secrets. Researchers focused on locating specific artifacts that could provide insight into the daily lives of the building's former inhabitants, details that often contrast with the supernatural myths surrounding the property ^[1], ^[2].

Stabilizing the structure is the final goal of the current phase of work. Once the archaeological survey is complete, the focus will shift toward the physical reinforcement of the 1824 masonry and timber to ensure the house remains standing for future generations ^[1], ^[3].