A devastating fire has consumed the historic Saint-Paul Church in Côte-Saint-Paul, Montreal, erasing a crucial part of the area’s history. The church, constructed in 1911, was a significant landmark and community center for generations.
The Impact of the Saint-Paul Church Fire
Local historian Guy Gélinas expressed his sorrow over the loss. He remarked that the once-bustling street, known for its industrial activity, had become central to the community’s identity alongside the former Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire school and the town hall. The fire, which occurred on a Monday, resulted in total destruction of the building.
A Brief Historical Perspective
- Location: Côte-Saint-Paul, near the Lachine Canal and Highway 15
- Date of Construction: 1911
- Significant Events: Church served as a venue for baptisms, weddings, and religious ceremonies
- Architect: Joseph-Arthur Godin
- Vitreaux Art: Created by renowned artist Guido Nincheri
This church, alongside two others that suffered from disastrous events, witnessed the community’s transformations over decades. The first church was struck by lightning in 1999, and a replacement also faced a similar fate just eight years later. The recent fire led to the evacuation of 150 elderly residents from a nearby facility.
Preserving Community Heritage
While mourning the loss of the Saint-Paul Church, Gélinas urges fellow heritage enthusiasts to take action. He emphasizes the need to preserve existing historical sites before they too fall into disrepair. The former town hall nearby also needs significant renovations that could cost millions.
“We have a collective responsibility to remember and protect our history,” he said, highlighting a community motto: “Je me souviens” (I remember).
The cause of the fire remains unknown, but its impact is felt deeply across the Côte-Saint-Paul neighborhood, raising concerns about the future of its cultural heritage.
