Saint Enfant Jésus De La Pointe Aux Trembles

Saint-Enfant-Jésus-De-La-Pointe-Aux-Trembles: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Montreal Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled along the banks of the St. Lawrence River in Montreal’s eastern borough, Saint-Enfant-Jésus-De-La-Pointe-Aux-Trembles stands as a vibrant testament to Quebec’s colonial, religious, and community history. With origins dating back to the 17th century, this historic parish has evolved from a rural agricultural hub to a dynamic cultural and heritage destination. Today, visitors can explore remarkable architectural landmarks, participate in diverse cultural programming, and immerse themselves in over three centuries of local history.

This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, site highlights, accessibility, and travel tips for Saint-Enfant-Jésus-De-La-Pointe-Aux-Trembles, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for all.

Historical Overview
Visitor Information
Key Sites and Experiences
Visual & Digital Resources
FAQs
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

Historical Overview

Early Settlement and Parish Founding

Saint-Enfant-Jésus-De-La-Pointe-Aux-Trembles traces its beginnings to 1669, when Jean Oury received land from the Sulpicians, Montreal Island’s seigneurs. By 1671, the first windmill had been built, and in 1674 the parish was formally established. The early years saw the construction of the first chapel and the appointment of Curé François Séguenot, with parish registers dating to this era still serving as valuable genealogical records (Atelier d’histoire de la Pointe-aux-Trembles). Pointe-aux-Trembles grew as one of Montreal’s oldest communities, celebrating its 350th anniversary in 2024.

Architectural and Religious Heritage

The original windmill (1671) and the first stone church (1705) marked the area as a spiritual and agricultural center. Though the windmill succumbed to natural forces, and the church was lost to a fire in 1937, a new church was built in 1938 by architects Gascon and Parent. The presbytery, initially a simple house, evolved into a distinctive Second Empire–style building in 1881, still incorporating wood from the original dwelling (Répertoire du patrimoine culturel du Québec).

Marguerite Bourgeoys and her companions began educational work in 1678, contributing to the founding of the Couvent Notre-Dame de la Trinité in 1878. After a fire in 1922, the convent was rebuilt and served the community until 1975, now functioning as the borough’s administrative center.

Notable Events

The Great Fire of 1912: Destroyed about 60 homes but spared the church and convent, showcasing the resilience of the community.
Surviving Heritage Homes: Maison Fisciault and Maison Charbonneau remain important examples of the area’s domestic architecture.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Église Saint-Enfant-Jésus: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Special hours may apply during events (Société de développement Angus).
Maison Fisciault & Maison Charbonneau: Open for guided tours and heritage days; consult the event calendar for details.
Presbytery Restaurant & Garden Bar: Open for lunch and dinner; extended hours in summer.
Orchard and Courtyard: Publicly accessible during daylight; special events may require tickets.

Tickets and Admission

General Admission: Entry to the church and grounds is free.
Events and Performances: Tickets required for concerts, exhibitions, and special programming. Purchase online or at the venue (Société de développement Angus).
Guided Tours: Self-guided tours via the BaladoDécouverte app are free. In-person tours may require a fee.

Tours and Events

Guided Heritage Tours: Offered seasonally; check the schedule for availability.
Cultural Programming: Includes music, theater, circus arts, and food festivals.
Farmers’ Markets & Community Events: Held at Place du Village-de-la-Pointe-aux-Trembles and in the orchard.

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible pathways and restrooms throughout the site.
Bilingual signage and staff assistance available.
Service animals welcome; pets allowed on leashes in outdoor spaces.

Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions

Getting There: Accessible by STM bus, commuter train (Pointe-aux-Trembles station), cycling, and a seasonal river shuttle from Montreal’s Old Port (quartiermaritime.ca).
Parking: Limited on-site; public transit is recommended.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for outdoor activities; winter for a quieter atmosphere and holiday events.

Key Sites and Experiences

Église du Saint-Enfant-Jésus de la Pointe-aux-Trembles: Historic church and multidisciplinary cultural venue (GCatholic).
Presbytery Restaurant: Farm-to-table dining and riverside terrace.
Historic Stable and Garden Bar: Local food and drinks in a rustic setting.
Courtyard & Orchard: Recreational activities, markets, and picnic areas.
Maison Victorien-Roy & Maison Urgel-Charbonneau: Examples of preserved Quebecois architecture (quartiermaritime.ca).
Parc du Vieux-Moulin: Features a restored 1719 windmill and scenic riverside grounds (montreal.ca).
Écomusée de la Pointe-aux-Trembles: Free admission; exhibits on local history.

Visual & Digital Resources

Virtual Tours & Photo Galleries: Available via the Société de développement Angus website.
Self-Guided Audio Tours: BaladoDécouverte app offers immersive exploration in multiple languages.
Genealogical Archives: Parish records accessible at Atelier d’histoire de la Pointe-aux-Trembles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: The site is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Event hours may vary.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: General entry is free. Tickets are required for select events and performances.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, including ramps and accessible restrooms throughout the grounds.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Pets are permitted on leashes in outdoor spaces; service animals are welcome.

Q: Are tours available?
A: Self-guided audio tours are available year-round; in-person guided tours are seasonal.

Q: How do I get there?
A: By public transit, cycling, or car (limited parking); a seasonal river shuttle connects to the Old Port.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Saint-Enfant-Jésus-De-La-Pointe-Aux-Trembles is a cornerstone of Montreal’s heritage, offering a compelling blend of history, architecture, and community. Whether you’re attending a concert, enjoying local cuisine, strolling through the orchard, or diving into genealogical archives, this site promises an engaging and memorable experience. Plan your visit by consulting the official website, download the BaladoDécouverte app for self-guided tours, and follow local event listings for the latest programming.

For more historical insights and visitor resources, explore the Atelier d’histoire de la Pointe-aux-Trembles and related Montreal heritage sites. Share your experiences using #MontrealHistoricalSites and join a community celebrating the city’s enduring legacy.