Nestled in the heart of Montreal is Hochelaga—Rosemont-Est. It is a district with a story etched in every street. Today we will delve into the layers of history that make Hochelaga—Rosemont-Est so unique.
Once this area was part of Côté-de-la-Visitation. This vast land served as agricultural fields. It was crossed by the Papineau Path. A visionary real estate tycoon named Dandurant arrived. He saw the potential of this land. Dandurant acquired farm Crawford via Rosemont Land Co.
He named the area Rosemont after his mother Rose. In 1905, he founded the city. Dandurant was the biggest landowner. He divided the land into small lots. He sold them at attractive prices to Montreal’s emerging middle class.
Dandurant made grand promises like sewer pipes and parks. The young city could not afford these achievements. In 1910, Rosemont merged with Montreal due to debts. The promoters made money leaving bills for new residents.
The Angus Workshop became Rosemont’s industrial center. It was one of the largest in Canada owned by Canadian Pacific. Today Rosemont-Petite-Patrie is one of Montreal’s largest boroughs. It ranks second in population. Rosemont remains an affordable family-friendly district.
In the early 20th century, Rosemont experienced rapid expansion. This was due to the arrival of the Angus factories. Its population tripled in just ten years. The slowdown of Canadian Pacific activities created a void. The Angus area is reviving. A large residential development and industrial renaissance are underway.
Located in central Montreal Rosemont is surrounded by Sherbrooke Bélanger Iberville and Lacordaire Streets. It includes Petite-Patrie Nouveau-Rosemont and Technopôle Angus. It also encompasses urban villages like Little Italy.
Rosemont’s history is also linked to quarries. The Martineau quarry located between Marquette Garnier Beaubien and Carrières streets was significant. Its stones were used for Saint-Édouard church and Notre-Dame Basilica construction.
The arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the late 19th century transformed the landscape. Industries developed around the railway. The Shops Angus employed 3000 workers at its opening in 1904. It grew to 5000 and even 12000 during World War II.
The railway isolated the neighborhood. Bridges and viaducts were constructed. These created better north-south circulation. These viaducts remain essential entry points. Their safety continues to be a concern for residents.
By 1910, factory workers outnumbered agricultural workers. About 75% of the population worked in factories or construction. People were attracted by jobs and cheap land. Italian immigrants arrived in large numbers creating Little Italy.
The Saint-Hubert Plaza is important. Businesses thrived on Saint-Hubert Street. The Plaza Theatre photography shop Lozeau and Labelle Furs are still present. The first Saint-Hubert Barbecue opened here. In 1954, merchants formed an association. Plaza St-Hubert became the city’s second-largest commercial street.
Since the 1980s, immigration intensified and diversified. Italian residents were surpassed by Spanish and Arabic speakers. Hochelaga—Rosemont-Est transitioned from agriculture to industry to residential. Today its streets houses parks and shops reflect its history. Hochelaga—Rosemont-Est has evolved. It maintains a unique vibe. It blends history with modern life.