The Convent of the Congregation of Notre Dame
For nearly two centuries, the Convent of the Congregation of Notre Dame was a cornerstone of education and community life in Pointe-Claire. From a temporary lodging to a grand stone institution, its story is a testament to the dedication of the Sisters and the profound value the community placed on education.
The second convent, 2014
(Source: SSPPC archives)
The First Convent (1787 – 1868)
Founded in Montreal by Marguerite Bourgeoys, the Congregation of Notre Dame arrived in Pointe-Claire in 1784 with a mission to educate the young girls of the parish. As a permanent structure had not yet been built, Curé Pierre Conefroy provided a temporary house for the first Sisters.
The first permanent convent was built of stone and occupied on March 24, 1787. Located behind the church and presbytery, it bordered a small street fittingly known as “Convent Street”. This humble but vital institution was, by 1831, recognized as one of the best primary schools in the region and served the community for over 80 years.
The first convent, 13 March 1867
(Source: Committee for Construction and Sacret Art, Archdiocese of Montreal)
The Second Convent (1868 – 1962)
By the mid-19th century, the first convent was no longer adequate for the growing community. Excavation for a new, much larger convent began in 1867. Completed in 1868, this grand three-storey stone building became a landmark of the West Island, symbolizing a new era of prosperity and ambition in Pointe-Claire. For nearly a century, it served as a renowned boarding school.
“This house will be used for the instruction of female boarders and day-pupils, to teach them everything a good education entails…” – Contract for the construction of the second convent, 1867
The second convent, 1896
Source: Congregation of Notre Dame archives
The Modern Expansion (1962 – Present)
In 1962, the convent underwent its final major transformation. The interior of the building was completely modernized, and architect Louis-Napoléon Audet was tasked with a significant expansion. Drawing inspiration from the architectural style and materials of the 1868 structure, Audet added two large, perpendicular wings to the original building core to better meet the needs of the Congregation.
This expansion gave the building its current, immense footprint. After the Sisters’ departure, it remains one of the most significant and imposing heritage buildings in the village.
Explore Our Heritage in Depth
Discover the full story of the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame and their profound, two-century impact on the educational and cultural life of Pointe-Claire in our dedicated historical publication.