This athlete and heroic defender of the rights of the Canadiens on the Ottawa River became a legend as the all-time giant of Canadian log-drivers.
In 1828, in a Montreal bar, Jos. Montferrand accepted a challenge from British Army Major Jones,
who advertised his profound disdain for the Canadiens.
The unfortunate major barely lived to regret his words, as Jos., with each mighty blow, roared, “Any more insults for the Canadiens?”
English-speaking loggers transformed the river giant’s name to “Joe Mufferaw.” Like Paul Bunyan, he has become a legendary hero, his feats the subject of tall tales and exaggeration.
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Heroes of Lore and Yore
