MAM (formerly Montreal History Centre)
Discover the fascinating history of Montreal
The MAM or Centre des mémoires montréalaise Centres is a museum dedicated to the history of Montreal. Formerly known as The Montreal History Centre, it found its home in an old central fire station in 1983. The fire station, which was built during 1903 and 1904, was designed by Joseph Perrault and Simon Lesage who aimed to give it a Flemish character. This made it a unique building in Montreal at that time, a fitting home for a museum of history. The museum was originally administered by the Archaeological and Numistmatic Society of Montreal; it became part of the network of cultural centres for Montreal in 1987.
On the ground floor of the museum you can browse the permanent display which promotes the various events, places and residents of Montreal which have been important in the history of that city. There are old maps to study and old photographs to look at. There is also a collection of unique objects to browse. All these items show moments in Montreal's history that the city can be proud of.
The other two floors are filled with various temporary exhibits which are changed on a regular basis to keep the regulars interested. With over 4000 artefacts to choose from, mainly form the 20th century, there is plenty for the curators to show the visitors.
The museum also offers a number of walking tours through the nearby neighbourhood to introduce the various historical buildings and events that may otherwise pass unnoticed or be difficult to find. There are also a variety to other annual activities that take place at the museum which feature various historical re-enactments, demonstrations and even the occasional military song.
The museum is also host to a regular photo competition where local photographers, professional and amateur can show their skills. The contest always has a theme and the images that are displayed are really something to see.
The museum is wheelchair friendly and has limited paid parking available.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes - Family discounts are availableMontreal History Centre Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 1210 Boul. Saint-Laurent, Montréal, QC H2X 2S5, Canada
Phone: (514) 872-3207
Official Website: Montreal History Centre
Montreal History Centre Reviews
Rated out of 5
Excellent experience as an Anglo outsider who adores Montréal but has never truly lived here. It is mostly a museum of “everyday objects” both historic and contemporary that is propped up by oral histories, newsreel footage, interviews, and other audio-visual content. I found the museum to be very touching and a true heartfelt testament to Montrealers’ love for their city and its unique culture. Everyone’s story is told; the museum is extremely inclusive of all social groups and I think everyone can find something to identify with here. All the content was presented in its original language with either French or English subtitles. Give yourself ample time to enjoy the exhibits, each video clip lasts 3-5 minutes and the museum is rich with video content. The staff were super accommodating and I thought the gift shop was super cute dressed up as a Dépanneur. If you have any connection to this city or even a passing interest as a tourist, I encourage you to go here and see this beautiful love letter to Montréal.
W Nunnery - a month ago
What a great idea to have this museum to explain what it means to live in this amazing city. The concept of getting used to the public iconography, the daily objects is simple and powerful. Great place for kids and visitors. It is a love letter to the city. Chapeau !
Luis Miguel Gonzalez - 2 months ago
I need to come back. The wealth of content was great. It was nostalgic, informative, entertaining, felt authentic (albeit somewhat optimistic). I would recommend.
Danny Tran - 3 weeks ago
This city is mix between english and french overall is lovely city and still the value of history still keep standing until now love it
Anggelo cosmos rodriguez nasution - 6 years ago
No lack of Montreal history. Very clean and well organized museum. Friendly and helpful staff.
Roberto Alfonso - 3 months ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Square-Victoria | 8 Minutes |
How to get to Montreal History Centre by Metro
By Metro: Take Metro Line 2 to Square-Victoria Station and take the Victoria Square Exit. Walk southeast along McGill Street to Place d'Youville and turn left continuing to the Museum which is straight ahead.
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Accommodations near Montreal History Centre:
Photo Gallery
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Exterior view of Montreal History Centre Public Domain -
Original statue of Vice Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson that once stood atop Nelson's Column cc licensed photo by Jeangagnon via Wikipedia -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ken Lund - cc license via Flickr
Video
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