The Pointe-Claire Windmill
Built between 1709 and 1710, the Pointe-Claire Windmill is more than just the oldest building in our community – it is an irreplaceable piece of our shared national history. As one of only ten windmills remaining from the New France era, it stands as a rare and powerful testament to the origins of Quebec and the foundational story of Canada.
The point, 13 March 1867
(Source: Committee for Contruction and Sacred Art, Archdiocese of Montreal)
A Dual Purpose: Mill and Fort
Constructed by the Sulpician Order, the windmill’s primary function was to serve as a moulin banal, or banal mill. Under the seigneurial system, all inhabitants were required to bring their grain to this mill for grinding, making it a central hub of economic life.
However, its design served a crucial secondary purpose. Built with thick fieldstone walls and equipped with loopholes for muskets, the windmill was also a fortified structure. In times of conflict, it acted as a watchtower and a defensive refuge, offering vital protection to the early villagers.
Pointe-Claire as mapped by General James Murray, c. 1760, showing ther church slightly out of place
(Source: National Archives of Canada)
Built with thick fieldstone walls and equipped with loopholes for muskets, the windmill was also a fortified structure.
From Industry to Icon
The windmill ceased its milling operations in the 19th century as new industrial technologies emerged. Its final day of operation was September 1, 1866, after which it was taken out of service for good. With its industrial life over, its importance as a heritage landmark grew. This was officially recognized in 1967 when, as part of Canada’s centennial celebrations, it was carefully restored. The Government of Quebec later classified it as a historic monument, preserving its status for future generations.
The sails were removed between 1867 and 1880. Around 1896, the roof was torn down and replaced with an observation platform.
(Photo credit: Fonds Samuel-Garceau)
The Next Chapter: Restoration and Rebirth
Today, the Pointe-Claire Heritage Preservation Society (PCHPS) is leading a vital mission to secure the windmill’s future. Having secured a 50-year lease on the building in February 2025, the PCHPS has launched a campaign to fund a complete and authentic restoration of the mill to its original state.
The vision is to transform the windmill from a static monument into a fully functioning historical mill and dynamic living history Interpretation Center—a vibrant educational destination where its unique story can be brought to life for the entire community.
Drawing by Marie Villeneuve, based on the molinological study by Claude Arsenault
A Note on the Historical Record
While the Pointe-Claire Windmill is officially listed as one of ten surviving windmills from the New France era by heritage organizations like the Association des moulins du Québec, it is important to note a key historical distinction.
From a strict architectural preservation perspective, one of these ten mills—the Bécancour mill—was dismantled and rebuilt on a new site in 1988. Therefore, some experts and molinologists consider the Pointe-Claire Windmill to be one of only nine truly original structures remaining in situ.
For the sake of consistency with the official public record, this campaign uses the number ten, while acknowledging this important nuance.
Support the Next Chapter
This historic restoration is a landmark undertaking for our community. You can learn more about the specific goals of this ambitious project and how you can contribute by visiting our main campaign page.