Montreal History Centre
(Centre d\'Histoire de Montreal)

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Discover the fascinating history of Montreal

The Centre d'histoire de Montreal is a museum dedicated to the history of Montreal. It found its home in an old central fire station in 1983. The fire station, which was built during 1903 and 1904, was designed by Joseph Perrault and Simon Lesage who aimed to give it a Flemish character. This made it a unique building in Montreal at that time, a fitting home for a museum of history. The museum was originally administered by the Archaeological and Numistmatic Society of Montreal; it became part of the network of cultural centres for Montreal in 1987.

On the ground floor of the museum you can browse the permanent display which promotes the various events, places and residents of Montreal which have been important in the history of that city. There are old maps to study and old photographs to look at. There is also a collection of unique objects to browse. All these items show moments in Montreal's history that the city can be proud of.

The other two floors are filled with various temporary exhibits which are changed on a regular basis to keep the regulars interested. With over 4000 artefacts to choose from, mainly form the 20th century, there is plenty for the curators to show the visitors.

The museum also offers a number of walking tours through the nearby neighbourhood to introduce the various historical buildings and events that may otherwise pass unnoticed or be difficult to find. There are also a variety to other annual activities that take place at the museum which feature various historical re-enactments, demonstrations and even the occasional military song.

The museum is also host to a regular photo competition where local photographers, professional and amateur can show their skills. The contest always has a theme and the images that are displayed are really something to see.

The museum is wheelchair friendly and has limited paid parking available.

Facts For Your Visit

Official Website: Montreal History Centre

Fee: Yes - Family discounts are available

Closed Now

Regular Hours:

Wednesday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Category: Museums

Address: 335 d'Youville Place
Montreal, QC H2Y 3T1
Canada

Phone: +1 514-872-3207

Reviews

Yelp Rating:
4.5 out of 5 4.5 Star Rating
Based on 8 Reviews.

See all reviews on Yelp

First floor is an informative but very analog history of Montreal's geographic and social history, seen through important individuals and communities.... Read More

Be F. Jul-01-2018

If you want a quick summary of Montreal's history, this is a good place to spend an hour. Can't beat the fee. The first floor is an overview of Montreal's... Read More

Donny N. Oct-16-2017

For a small museum, quite a wonderful find. If and when they ever finish off something in the vacant lot where the historic parliament used to be this could... Read More

Matt W. Jun-29-2015

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Directions

Metro Line	Nearest Station	Walking Time
2	Square-Victoria	8 Minutes

How to get to Montreal History Centre by Metro

By Metro: Take Metro Line 2 to Square-Victoria Station and take the Victoria Square Exit. Walk southeast along McGill Street to Place d'Youville and turn left continuing to the Museum which is straight ahead.

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Photo Gallery

Exterior view of Montreal History Centre Public Domain
Original statue of Vice Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson that once stood atop Nelson's Column cc licensed photo by Jeangagnon via Wikipedia