As Pictured Above: The 1950 convention brought 3,800 Racqueteers to Lewiston and was profiled by Life Magazine.
During one snowshoe convention Lewiston once hosted a magnificent ice palace crafted from the frozen waters of No Name Pond. The 1935 palace was a colossal structure, weighing 85 tons and reaching 26 feet high.
LE MONTAGNARD
Snowshoe Club of Lewiston
Lewiston, Maine, a city steeped in history, was once home to a vibrant snowshoe club culture. Le Montagnard, founded by Louis-Philippe Gagné, was more than just an athletic organization; it was a social hub, and a cultural icon that shaped the city’s identity.
The club flourished from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, attracting thousands of members and spectators. Louis-Philippe Gagné, a visionary leader, played a pivotal role in establishing and popularizing snowshoeing in Lewiston in 1922. Just three years later he invited Canadian Clubs for the first International Snowshoe Convention, which became synonymous with the city’s identity.
The snowshoe clubs weren’t just about the sport itself. They were social clubs that brought people together for camaraderie, entertainment, and community service. They organized dances, parties, and other events throughout the
year, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among their members. The popularity of snowshoe clubs steadily rose throughout the early 20th century, reaching its peak in the 1950s. Lewiston, a hub of snowshoe activity, hosted more national conventions than any other U.S. city.
Beyond their social functions, snowshoe clubs also played a significant role in Lewiston’s political and cultural life. They were a powerful voice for the French-Canadian community, advocating for their rights and interests. The clubs also helped to preserve French-Canadian culture and traditions, passing them down from generation to generation.
While the golden age of snowshoe clubs in Lewiston has passed, their legacy lives on. They were a testament to the power of community, the importance of culture, and the enduring spirit of the people of Lewiston. Their story is a reminder of a bygone era when snowshoe clubs were more than just clubs; they were a way of life.