What were the conditions like living on Grosse-Ile island?

Living on Grosse-Ile island, particularly during its use as a quarantine station in the 19th and early 20th centuries, was challenging. The island was often overcrowded with immigrants and patients, leading to unsanitary conditions and a high rate of disease, especially during epidemics like cholera and typhus. While it was a necessary refuge for many, the emotional toll of separation from loved ones and the fear of illness created a tense atmosphere. Over time, the island became a symbol of both hope and hardship for those seeking a new life in Canada.