Interior view of the second attic of Saint-Gabriel farm showing two spinning wheels, a book stand, a churn, and a scale

Maison Saint Gabriel

Maison Saint-Gabriel Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to Montreal’s Historic Farmhouse

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Maison Saint-Gabriel, nestled in Montreal’s historic Pointe-Saint-Charles neighborhood, is a living chronicle of New France’s colonial past and the enduring legacy of French-Canadian culture. Founded in 1668 by Marguerite Bourgeoys and the Congrégation de Notre-Dame, the site was pivotal in supporting early settlers and educating young women, notably the Filles du Roi—approximately 800 women sent from France to help populate the colony. The farmhouse, rebuilt after a fire in 1693, is among the oldest surviving rural structures in Canada. Today, Maison Saint-Gabriel operates as a museum and vibrant heritage site, offering guided tours, seasonal events, and lush gardens that recreate 17th-century rural life. (Maison Saint-Gabriel official history, Parks Canada, The Canadian Encyclopedia)

Historical Overview
Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Recommendations
Resources & References

Facade of the convent of the Sisters of the Congregation in Pointe-Saint-Charles, Montreal with steep roof, skylights, bell tower and wooden cross

Maison Saint-Gabriel historic farmhouse in Pointe-Saint-Charles, Montréal, early 20th century

Historic photograph of St. Gabriel Farm in Pointe St. Charles, Montreal from 1865

The Saint-Gabriel Farmhouse painting by Henry Richard S. Bunnett, 1886, oil on canvas showing a rustic farmhouse in a natural setting

Attic of St. Gabriel farm house in Montreal around 1910 showing rustic wooden beams and vintage interior

Maison Saint-Gabriel historical house in Montréal

St. Gabriel farm house in Point St. Charles, Montreal, circa 1895, vintage photographic print

Historical Overview

Origins and Early History

Maison Saint-Gabriel’s origins trace back to 1668, when Marguerite Bourgeoys, founder of the Congrégation de Notre-Dame, purchased a modest farmhouse and 30 arpents of land. The acquisition provided a base for supporting the congregation’s mission of educating girls and sustaining their community through agriculture. The original structure, built in the traditional French colonial style, utilized local fieldstone and timber and became a rare architectural survivor in North America (Maison Saint-Gabriel official history, Parks Canada).

Role in the Filles du Roi Program

Between 1663 and 1673, the Filles du Roi (“King’s Daughters”) were sent from France to New France to marry settlers and boost the colony’s growth. Maison Saint-Gabriel became a residence and training center for these women, equipping them with essential domestic and agricultural skills. Their arrival and integration at the site contributed significantly to the demographic expansion and cultural fabric of early Montreal (The Canadian Encyclopedia).

Agricultural and Educational Legacy

The site operated as a working farm and educational institution. The sisters and their charges cultivated crops, raised livestock, and maintained self-sufficiency. The farm’s output supported both the congregation and the broader Montreal community. Educational efforts focused on reading, writing, religious instruction, and practical domestic skills, reflecting Marguerite Bourgeoys’ vision for community resilience and empowerment (Maison Saint-Gabriel – Museum and Historic Site).

Architecture and Restoration

After a fire in 1693, the farmhouse was rebuilt using the surviving stone walls, preserving its hallmark features: steeply pitched roof, thick stone walls, and deep-set windows. Throughout the centuries, the building underwent careful modifications, but its character and authenticity remained. In 1966, Maison Saint-Gabriel opened as a museum, dedicated to interpreting the history of New France and the Filles du Roi (Parks Canada).

National Historic Site Designation

Recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada in 2007, Maison Saint-Gabriel stands as an exceptional witness to the settlement of Montreal and the influence of religious communities. Its stewardship continues under the Congrégation de Notre-Dame, with ongoing conservation efforts ensuring its educational and cultural mission (Government of Canada).

Maison Saint-Gabriel’s story is intertwined with that of the Filles du Roi, whose descendants form a significant part of Quebec’s population. The site is a place of pilgrimage for genealogists and those interested in French-Canadian heritage, and it stands as a testament to women’s contributions in early Canadian society (The Canadian Encyclopedia).

Visitor Information

Location and Getting There

Address: 2146 Place Dublin, Montreal, Quebec, H3K 2A2

Public Transit: Short walk from Charlevoix metro station (Green Line); bus routes 57 and 71 stop nearby.
By Car: Limited street parking; public transit recommended due to residential parking restrictions.
Cycling: Bicycle racks available for cyclists.

Visiting Hours & Admission

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mondays and major holidays). Check the official website for updates and holiday hours.
Admission (2025):
- Adults: $15 CAD
- Seniors (65+): $12 CAD
- Students (with ID): $10 CAD
- Children (6–17): $5 CAD
- Children under 6: Free
- Family (2 adults + 2 children): $35 CAD

Group rates and guided tour packages are available by reservation; purchase tickets online.

Accessibility

Maison Saint-Gabriel strives for accessibility, though some upper floors are not fully accessible due to the historic nature of the building. The main exhibition areas and gardens are wheelchair accessible, with accessible washrooms provided. Contact the museum ahead for specific accommodations.

Guided Tours & Special Events

Guided Tours: Led by costumed interpreters in French and English, these 75-minute tours include the main house and gardens, with a focus on daily life, the Filles du Roi, and Marguerite Bourgeoys. Tours are scheduled throughout the day.
Special Events: Seasonal programs feature historical reenactments, craft workshops, cooking demonstrations, and family activities. Visit the museum’s website for the event calendar.
Private Group Tours: Available in additional languages by request.

Facilities and Amenities

Restrooms: Accessible facilities are available in the visitor reception area.
Cloakroom: For coats and small bags; large luggage not permitted.
Gift Shop: Offers books, local crafts, and products inspired by New France.
Refreshments: Light snacks, herbal teas, and baked goods available during special events. Picnic areas in the gardens.
Wi-Fi: Complimentary in reception. Photography allowed outdoors; restricted inside (no flash or tripods).

Seasonal Activities

Spring/Summer: Heritage garden tours, family days, and historical performances.
Fall/Winter: Themed tours, demonstrations of traditional food preservation, and interactive children’s programs.

Photo Opportunities

The farmhouse exterior, reconstructed gardens, and costumed interpreters offer excellent settings for photography. Outdoor areas are especially picturesque in the summer.

Nearby Attractions

Lachine Canal: Ideal for cycling and walking.
Atwater Market: Local produce and gourmet foods.
Old Montreal & Old Port: Historic streets, cafes, and museums.
Canadian Centre for Architecture: Notable for architecture enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Maison Saint-Gabriel’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed Mondays and major holidays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Adults $15 CAD; seniors $12; students $10; children (6–17) $5; under 6 free; family (2 adults + 2 children) $35.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: The main floor and gardens are accessible. Some upper floors are not due to historic design.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, tours are offered in both French and English.

Q: Is there parking?
A: Limited street parking; public transit recommended.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography is allowed outdoors; restricted indoors (no flash or tripods).

Summary and Recommendations

Maison Saint-Gabriel stands as a vibrant symbol of Montreal’s colonial heritage and the foundational role women played in New France. From its origins as a 17th-century farmhouse supporting the Filles du Roi to its designation as a National Historic Site, the property encapsulates centuries of French-Canadian culture, architectural resilience, and social history. With immersive guided tours, engaging exhibits, and beautifully preserved gardens, it offers visitors an enriching connection to the past.

For those planning a visit, Maison Saint-Gabriel provides accessible facilities, multilingual tours, and proximity to other notable Montreal attractions. For the latest information on visiting hours, ticketing, and special events, consult the Maison Saint-Gabriel website and consider using the Audiala app for guided audio tours. Enhance your Montreal experience by exploring nearby historic sites like the Lachine Canal and Old Port.