Maison Etienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier

Who could have imagined the secrets hidden beneath this unassuming structure? The Maison Etienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier stands before us, a silent witness to centuries of history. Built in 1710, the Maison Etienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier initially served as a rural home, reflecting French architectural influences of the time. Its rectangular shape, one-and-a-half stories, and steep roof evoke a sense of simplicity and rustic charm. The Maison Etienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier is located within Le Jardin du Citoyen park, offering picturesque views of the Saint Lawrence River. The Congrégation de Notre-Dame, original owners of the Verdun fief, commissioned the construction. This makes the Maison Etienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier a testament to the early village settlements south of Montreal Island. It stands as one of the oldest surviving structures on the island. In 1769, the congregation sold the property, including the Maison Etienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier, to Montreal merchant Étienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier. His son, Étienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier Jr., inherited the estate and played a prominent role in Montreal’s civic affairs. He served as a justice of the peace, commissioner for the construction of Montreal’s new market, and a member of the legislative assembly. The house passed through several hands after his death in 1820, including businessman and philanthropist Antoine-Olivier Berthelet. During the construction of the Crawford Park complex in 1930, the City of Verdun acquired the Maison Etienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier. It was used as a storage facility until its restoration in 1940. The building then served as a social club and later housed the Royal Canadian Legion. Today, the Maison Etienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier is a museum, showcasing its rich history and the archaeological treasures found beneath. Excavations revealed a significant prehistoric site, dating back over 5,500 years, indicating a long and substantial Indigenous presence. The Maison Etienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier is more than just a building. It’s a time capsule, preserving the stories of early settlers, prominent families, and the Indigenous peoples who called this land home long before. As you gaze upon the Maison Etienne Nivard de Saint-Dizier, let your imagination wander back through the centuries, picturing the lives and events that unfolded within its walls.