Villa-Maria Estate: Quebec and Ottawa Must Protect Our Shared Heritage
We are calling on Quebec and Ottawa to acquire the Villa-Maria estate and preserve the Monk Residence and Villa-Maria College.
Why act now?
The Villa-Maria estate is a site of national significance. In addition to being a designated historical site in Canada since 1951, it is home to an essential educational institution, Villa-Maria College, which plays a vital role for families in CDN-NDG and beyond.
Our administration has already committed to ensuring that any future development will continue to contribute to the well-being of the community, in line with Montreal’s vision for urban, heritage, and ecological development.
However, the future of this site is uncertain. The Sisters of the Congregation of Notre-Dame, the current owners, have announced their intention to sell the land by 2030. This raises concerns about the preservation of this heritage and its educational functions.
The Monk Residence: A Symbol of Social Justice
The James-Monk Residence, built in 1803, is a heritage gem located on the Villa-Maria estate in the heart of Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce. It has been designated a heritage property by the Quebec government since 1976 and is surrounded by a protective zone since 1978. This home is a symbol of history and social progress.
James Monk, former Chief Justice of the Court of King’s Bench, is known for his contributions to justice reform in the 18th century, particularly his opposition to the prosecution of runaway slaves. His residence is a living testament to this commitment and represents an invaluable legacy to pass on to future generations.
Our Request
We must preserve the public vocation of the Villa-Maria estate and the Monk Residence.
It is crucial to maintain the public role of the Villa-Maria estate, a true symbol of history and justice in Montreal. Its heritage value must be recognized, and we must ensure its long-term protection. To achieve this, we call on the provincial and federal governments to acquire the Villa-Maria estate and guarantee the preservation of the Monk Residence and Villa-Maria College.
Sign the Petition!
By signing this petition, you are helping preserve the public mission of the Villa-Maria estate, as well as protecting the Monk Residence and Villa-Maria College—iconic places of history, education, and community. Together, let’s defend this heritage for future generations.
