Considered a village until 1910 Notre-Dame-de-Grâce stands before you a testament to Montreal’s rich history. It began as a vast forest northwest of Mount Royal. The area developed along the Saint Jacques Escarpment. Imagine this land before you transformed from forest to a vibrant community.
Our story begins in 1650. Jean Descarries and Jean Leduc became the first European settlers. They received 30 acres each. This vast territory stretched from Atwater Avenue to Lachine. Notre-Dame-de-Grâce slowly took shape.
The Church of Notre-Dame-de-Grâce became a central point. Construction finished in 1853. It served as the head church for seven parishes. These parishes spread across the western part of the Island of Montreal. Imagine the church bells ringing across the fields.
In December 1876 the Municipality of the Village of Notre-Dame-de-Grâce was established. By 1906 it was incorporated as a town. However in 1910 Notre-Dame-de-Grâce was annexed into the city of Montreal.
The Descarries family played a vital role. Daniel-Jérémie Décarie was mayor from 1877 to 1904. His son Jérémie-Louis Décarie became a Quebec parliamentarian. Their influence shaped Notre-Dame-de-Grâce. Décarie Boulevard was named in their honor.
Around 1920 Anglophones started settling in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce. This led to the construction of numerous schools and churches. This influx transformed the area.
The Décarie Expressway opened in 1966. It coincided with Expo 67. This modern highway forever changed the landscape of Notre-Dame-de-Grâce. Imagine the bustling traffic replacing quiet streets.
Since 2002 Notre-Dame-de-Grâce is part of the borough of Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce. Today NDG is a vibrant residential neighborhood. It retains its historical charm.
The community is known for its diverse population. It has a mix of cultures and languages. Many residents are bilingual speaking both French and English. Affordable housing attracts a large student population.
NDG is known for its tree-lined streets. Much of the construction occurred between 1910 and 1940. This gives the area a unique architectural style. The red brick duplex row-house remains a dominant feature.
Several parks offer green spaces. NDG Park Loyola Park and Trenholme Park are popular spots. The NDG YMCA provides recreational programs. There are sports organizations for children and adults.
The STM provides public transportation. The Orange Line of the Metro runs through NDG. Several bus lines offer convenient service.
Major commercial streets include Monkland Avenue Somerled Avenue and Sherbrooke Street West. Monkland Village is a revitalized area with many businesses. The Décarie Expressway divides eastern NDG.
Notre-Dame-de-Grâce stands as a blend of past and present. Its history shapes its identity. It remains a vibrant part of Montreal.