Slipping beneath the bustling city, a hidden gem awaits. Here in Montreal, nestled within the larger borough of Lachine, lies the neighborhood of Saint-Pierre. Saint-Pierre boasts a rich history, stretching back to the early 18th century. Originally part of the Montreal Island Seignory, granted in 1640, this area was first known as Coste-Saint-Pierre in 1702. The name honors Pierre Chevrier, a priest and Baron of Fanchamp. Saint-Pierre’s name evolved over time. It was known as Coteau-Saint-Pierre by 1834. It even briefly bore the name Blue Bonnets Hill, thanks to a nearby horse race track. The track later moved to Decarie Boulevard in 1907. Officially incorporated in 1894 as Saint-Pierre-aux-Liens, Saint-Pierre welcomed its first pastor in 1897. It officially became a parish in 1906. Saint-Pierre reached city status in 1908. Its location along the Lachine Canal proved crucial for its development. It fostered industries like wood pipe manufacturing, aluminum production, asphalt creation, and railway wagon construction. Saint-Pierre remained a separate town until 1999 when it merged with Lachine. Then, in 2002, Lachine became part of Montreal. Today, Saint-Pierre maintains its distinct identity within the city. The Little Saint-Pierre River, now flowing underground, once meandered through this vibrant area. It even formed Otter Lake near the current Turcot Interchange. So, as you explore Saint-Pierre, imagine the river’s gentle flow beneath your feet, a reminder of the neighborhood’s rich and layered past.
Parc Dickie-Moore
Who needs a time machine when you’ve got Parc Dickie-Moore? This little slice of Parc-Extension holds a century of Montreal