The History of Pointe-Claire

From its origins as a strategic outpost of New France to its transformation into a vibrant modern city, the story of Pointe-Claire is a rich tapestry of resilience, faith, and community. The Pointe-Claire Heritage Preservation Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing this unique story.

“Pointe du Moulin”, 1867 by A.S. Brodeur
(Source: Lake St.Louis Old and New, Désiré Girouard, 1893)

The Seigneury and the Parish (1685 – 1760)

The story of Pointe-Claire begins in the late 17th century, a foundational period of New France. After the Great Peace of Montreal was signed in 1701, ending decades of conflict, the Sulpician Order began in earnest to develop their seigneury on the shores of Lac Saint-Louis. They reserved the strategic point of land for the construction of a fortified windmill, a structure that would be essential for both the economic survival and the defense of the new community.

Completed in 1710, the Windmill became the heart of the settlement, where all inhabitants were required to grind their grain. Its thick stone walls also served as a vital refuge. Shortly after, the Parish of Saint-Joachim was formally established, and by the mid-18th century, a beautiful stone Church and Presbytery were erected, solidifying the village’s spiritual and social center. These remarkable buildings still stand today as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of our first settlers.

Map of the Island of Montreal, c. 1700. This detail shows the forts and settlements of the New France era.
(Source: Société pour la Sauvegarde du Patrimoine de Pointe-Claire)

Transformation and Growth (1760 – 1900)

The arrival of the Grand Trunk Railway in 1855 was a transformative event, shattering Pointe-Claire’s rural isolation and connecting it directly to Montreal. The village rapidly evolved into a fashionable summer resort for the city’s elite, attracting new residents and ushering in an era of prosperity and growth. Grand hotels were built along the waterfront, and yachting on Lac Saint-Louis became a popular pastime.

This new era brought with it a new architectural ambition. The most significant example of this transformation is the magnificent Convent of the Congregation of Notre-Dame, built in 1867. Run by the nuns as a school for girls, its grand Second Empire style, with its distinctive mansard roof, stood in proud contrast to the simpler stone buildings of the New France era. It symbolized a new chapter of institutional growth and community development for a village on its way to becoming a town.

Pointe-Claire Village in 1879, by cartographer William Hopkins. The map notably shows the third church, as the second was scheduled for demolition.
(Source: Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec)

The Modern Era and a Commitment to Preservation (1900 – Today)

Incorporated as a City in 1911, Pointe-Claire continued to grow and evolve. With modern development came a growing awareness of the need to protect the irreplaceable historical core.

Today, the Pointe-Claire Heritage Preservation Society (PCHPS) leads the mission to safeguard this precious legacy. More than just a preserver of buildings, the Society is an active educational force in the community, having organized over 3,000 guided tours of the point and the historic village.

Our work ensures that the landmarks and stories that make our community unique are not only protected but are actively shared with generations to come.

Explore Our History in Depth

For a more detailed look into the fascinating history of our community’s foundational landmarks, explore our series of historical brochures, available for purchase in our online shop. Your purchase directly supports the preservation work of the Society.