People
Joseph Venne: From Neighbourhood Son to Montreal Builder
- Born on Montcalm Street, Montreal, in 1858 – Died in Montreal in 1925
Architect Joseph Venne was born on Montcalm Street, near Ontario Street, in 1858 and lived in the neighbourhood all his life. This son of a construction worker was involved in the construction of many buildings in Quebec and Canada, and even in New England. Many of his works are located in the Centre-Sud and its surrounding area, including the Sacré-Coeur-de-Jésus Church and its presbytery. In 1908, Venne built the first fireproof school in Saint-Jacques: the De Salaberry School (now the Comité social Centre-Sud [Centre-Sud Social Committee]). The public square facing the Gédéon-Ouimet School, which also was designed by the architect, now bears his name.
J. O. Marchand: A Magnificent and Prolific Architect
- Born in 1872, died in 1936
J. O. Marchand was born and studied in Montreal before continuing his architectural training at the École des Beaux-Arts de Paris. He thus became the first French Canadian architect to graduate from this prestigious institution. Upon his return to Canada in 1902, he enjoyed a prolific career. Among his major achievements were the Bordeaux prison, the Mother House of the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre-Dame, and the former Juvenile Court, which has since become the National Theatre School of Canada. In the Centre-Sud region, his outstanding works include the Généreux Bath, as well as the Garneau and Gabriel-Souart Schools.
Camillien Houde: A Remarkable Figure
- Born in 1889, died in 1958
Nicknamed “le p’tit gars de Sainte-Marie” (the Little Guy of Sainte-Marie), Camillien Houde served several terms as Mayor of Montreal between 1928 and 1954. He also represented the Sainte-Marie district at the provincial level for three terms. Speaking on behalf of workers, his career was also marked by his imprisonment during the Second World War, when he took a stand against conscription. His flamboyance and his major urban projects left their mark on several generations, so much so that he was nicknamed “Monsieur Montréal” (Mr. Montreal).
