Postcard

In the early 19th century, harbour facilities on the island of Montreal were rudimentary. Docking on the shores was reserved for small craft, and larger vessels were directed to Normand Island, located opposite Montreal on the St. Lawrence River. Gradually, individuals built private docks near Old Montreal, linking various islets.

In 1825, with the inauguration of the Lachine Canal providing access to the Great Lakes, the demand for port facilities in Montreal increased. Construction of the permanent docks was completed around 1832, but the port continued to expand over the next twenty years. Commercial activities took off again, and agricultural products, under British protectionism, were exported en masse to Europe. From 1850 onwards, permanent transatlantic links with the metropolis were established. The Victoria Bridge, opened in 1859, made the Old Port a crossroads for goods and passengers bound for the United States and the province of Canada. Throughout the rest of the 19th century, improvements to port facilities confirmed Montreal’s status as an economic metropolis. At the turn of the 20th century, the port was adapted to the daily arrival of passengers, citizens and immigrants, and to the handling of large volumes of goods.

This is what the artist of this postcard represents. More than just a means of communication, this medium promotes daily life in Montreal’s busiest spots. Images of the port’s flourishing activities, characterized by carriage drivers handling passengers and goods unloaded from steamboats, can be seen around the world, promoting the Canadian city.