Here stand the stones of Fort La Montagne. These stones whisper tales of faith, conflict, and survival. Fort La Montagne, also known as Fort des Messieurs or Fort Belmont, once stood as a vital fortification. Its story is etched into Montreal’s very foundation.
In 1685, construction began on Fort La Montagne. It was a mission to Christianize the native people, established in 1675 at the foot of Mont-Royal. François Vachon de Belmont was sent to New France to stop the spread of witchcraft and visions at the mission. By 1683, around 210 natives lived here. They were Iroquois, Hurons, and Algonquins. To protect this mission from the Iroquois, the fort was constructed.
Imagine this place bustling with activity. Missionaries worked tirelessly. Native people adapted to a new way of life. The looming threat of conflict was always present. Fort La Montagne’s walls offered some protection. The brandy trade increased significantly. Missionaries found it necessary to relocate their converts. They needed to move them away from the drunkenness and seduction of the cities.
By 1696, the inhabitants were moved to Fort Lorette at Sault-au-Recollet. The mission at Fort La Montagne closed in 1705. The grounds were rented to local peasants. Some even lived within the fortifications.
Originally, Fort La Montagne had four bastions. It also included ramparts and palisades. These fortifications were destroyed in 1854. This happened during the construction of the College of Montreal. Only two southern towers remain today. They stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era. The southeast tower even became a chapel in 1824.
These towers have seen a lot. In 1970, the towers were designated a National Historic Site of Canada. Restoration work was done on the two remaining towers from 1984 to 1986. The towers were classified as provincial historical monuments in 1974. In 1982, the towers were included in the Domaine des Messieurs-de-Saint-Sulpice historic site.
The towers of Fort La Montagne are among the oldest structures on the Island of Montreal. They are a testament to Montreal’s rich history. They remind us of the struggles and triumphs that shaped this city. Take a moment to appreciate these silent sentinels. They stand guard over the past. They connect us to the story of Fort La Montagne.