What whispers echo within these Boomtown walls? The Maison d’histoire de Terrebonne, a brick sentinel of time, stands before us. It isn’t just a museum; it’s a living testament to Terrebonne’s vibrant past. The Maison d’histoire de Terrebonne is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a repository of stories, a place where the past comes alive.
The Maison d’histoire de Terrebonne resides within the former home of Eugène Labelle. He was a prominent figure. He served as mayor and town councilor. Labelle’s life was intertwined with the fate of this building. And it was dramatically shaped by the devastating fire of 1922. Imagine Terrebonne in the roaring twenties. Eugène Labelle, a successful saddler and respected community figure, had his business and home right here, where the Maison d’histoire de Terrebonne now stands. He was even president of the school board from 1907 to 1924. But disaster struck. The fire of December 1922 swept through the lower town, consuming Labelle’s property along with 127 other buildings. This catastrophic event reshaped the town’s landscape. It also left an indelible mark on Labelle’s life.
Undeterred, Labelle rebuilt. In 1923, the current brick structure arose. It showcases the distinctive “Boomtown” style. This architectural style, popular in rapidly growing towns, gives the Maison d’histoire de Terrebonne its unique character. Inside its walls, you’ll find a treasure trove of historical gems. The permanent exhibition, “Une histoire de Terrebonne en photos,” showcases a curated collection of black and white photographs. They offer a glimpse into the daily lives of Terrebonne’s residents from the late 19th and 20th centuries. These images capture moments in time. They depict everything from agriculture and industry to leisure and devastating floods. They provide a poignant connection to the past. The Maison d’histoire de Terrebonne also houses the Société d’histoire de la région de Terrebonne. This ensures the preservation and accessibility of the town’s rich historical legacy.
The building itself has seen a fascinating evolution. After Labelle’s passing in 1925, it changed hands several times. One notable resident was Dr. René-Rosaire Gauthier. He was a renowned veterinarian specializing in racehorses. He even had a clinic within the house. Later, the MRC Les Moulins briefly occupied the building before it became the home of the Société d’histoire.
The Maison d’histoire de Terrebonne stands as a beacon of history. It’s a place where you can connect with the spirit of Terrebonne. It’s a reminder that the stories of the past continue to shape the present. As you leave the Maison d’histoire de Terrebonne, carry with you the echoes of these stories. They are woven into the very fabric of this remarkable place.