MAM (formerly Montreal History Centre)
Discover the fascinating history of Montreal
The MAM or Centre des mémoires montréalaise Centres is a museum dedicated to the history of Montreal. Formerly known as The Montreal History Centre, 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
Fee: Yes - Family discounts are availableMontreal History Centre Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 1210 Boul. Saint-Laurent, Montréal, QC H2X 2S5, Canada
Phone: (514) 872-3207
Official Website: Montreal History Centre
Montreal History Centre Reviews
Rated
out of 5 No lack of Montreal history. Very clean and well organized museum. Friendly and helpful staff.
Roberto Alfonso - a month ago
This city is mix between english and french overall is lovely city and still the value of history still keep standing until now love it
Anggelo cosmos rodriguez nasution - 6 years ago
Wonderful museum on the history of Montreal. The exhibits are laid out well and are both in French and English.
Great way to kill an hour or two.
Todd Sennholtz - 4 years ago
Very nice place to visit, there are interesting conferences about different and interesting topics, I went to one about the history of Montreal’s police and few items from the police museum used by old time police, their 3rd floor changed 2-3 times a year for a theme exposition, I’ve ha seen there one related to Expo 67 and another related toMontreal City of Vice in the old days, their 1st stage you can find very interesting Montréal history divided by time periods, easy to understand and kid friendly, you can interact with certain artifacts ( only these will have the sign that you can touch) to enhance experience
Max Medina - 4 years ago
Nice place to do a 5-7 cocktail!
Philip - 4 months ago
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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