In 1933, at the height of the depression, the Quebec government as a solution to poverty encourages people to settle in the uninhabited region of Abitibi. The people were told that it would provide great farmland and plenty of work but what they find is inhospitable terrain and a densely forested area. The settlers toil to clear and cultivate the land and establish a village. Struggles for leadership occur but it is a priest who becomes their unofficial leader and helps them through the dark times. The pioneers have to contend with harsh winters, forest fires, work accidents, debt and bankruptcy, alcoholism, rivalries between settlers, and lack of food and supplies. Langlois, the grocer, takes advantage of the situation and sells his goods at inflated prices. After three years of suffering, their fortunes are due to change and their hard work finally pays off with the arrival of some much needed people.