Photograph
Dominion Square, Montreal, QC, about 1895
Wm. Notman & Son
About 1895, 19th century
Silver salts, paint (opaquing) on glass - Gelatin dry plate process
20 x 25 cm
Purchase from Associated Screen News Ltd.
VIEW-2828
© McCord Museum
Description
Keywords:  Cityscape (3948) , Photograph (77678) , streetscape (1737)

Description

Created during the Victorian Era, the public squares were shaded places to relax which, unlike parks, permitted citizens to admire the surrounding cityscapes. Built in 1870 in the poshest neighbourhood in the city, Dominion Square was a must visit for distinguished visitors. In 1895, it was even becoming the heart of the new downtown, adding to the sector that we now call Old Montreal. All the new sectors, including poorer neighbourhoods, such as St. Henri, had their squares, around which institutions and distinguished addresses were located. As the photo illustrates, these squares were usually served by the new electric tramways, as well as summer taxis called calèches (see detail using "Explore").

Source: Virtual Exhibition Urban Life through Two Lenses