Government of Canada Recognizes Westmount for its National Historic Significance
News Release
July 25, 2016 Montreal, Quebec Parks Canada Agency
The Minister of Transport and Member of Parliament for Notre-Dame-de-Grace–Westmount, Marc Garneau, on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, unveiled today a commemorative plaque from the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada to recognize the national historic significance of Westmount. The ceremony took place in Westmount in the presence of the Mayor of Westmount, Mr. Peter Trent, as well as a number of proud citizens.
Located on the Southwest flank of Mount Royal, Westmount is an exemplary model of the suburbs of the Victorian and Post-Victorian eras in Canada. Its richly developed and landscaped heritage is representative of the architectural styles and landscaped architectural trends that marked the period between 1890 and 1930. The commemorative plaque will be installed at the Westmount City Hall.
As we near the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the Government invites all Canadians to experience and learn more about our environment and our history. National parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas enable Canadians to experience their heritage in a special way and will play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada is pleased to recognize the national historic significance of Westmount District. This city is an exemplary model of suburbs from the Victorian and Post-Victorian eras in Canada. These types of designations reflect the rich heritage of our country and offer Canadians the opportunity to learn more about it.”
Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport and Member of Parliament for Notre-Dame-de-Grâce–Westmount
“Two-thirds of Westmount's houses – and most of its schools, houses of worship, and civic facilities – are over a century old. Together, they weave themselves into a powerful visual and symbolic presence that is anchored in Westmount soil. Those who have put down roots in the City of Westmount have elected to become part of a community that stretches back in time; a community where a respect for the past leads to an assured hope for the future.”
Peter F. Trent
Mayor, Westmount
Quick Facts
- During the period of Montreal’s industrial expansion, Westmount became a wealthy suburb with sought after qualities: clean air, abundant green space and elegant architecture.
- Between 1890 and 1914, Westmount was transformed into the kind of place it is today. It became the centre of the local English-speaking bourgeoisie, which developed a social and intellectual life of its own.
- In 1913 and 1914, in addition to adopting a city plan, the municipality formed an architectural and urban planning board to have it implemented. This move intensified the use of earlier models that had already promoted the development of a harmonious environment.
- National parks, national marine conservation areas and national historic sites belong to all Canadians. They represent the best that Canada has to offer and tell stories of who we are, including the history, cultures and contributions of Indigenous peoples.
- Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change on the national historic importance of the sites, people and events that marked Canada's history. Parks Canada manages a countrywide network of national historic sites that, together, form a mosaic that illustrates the richness of Canada's cultural heritage and that allows visitors to make authentic and inspiring discoveries.
Related product
Fact Sheet: Westmount District
Associated Link
Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada
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Information
Isabel Larivière
Project Coordinator
Mauricie and Western Quebec Field Unit
Parks Canada
Tel.: 450-447-4898 ext. 178
Isabel.lariviere@pc.gc.ca
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
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