MP-0000.2821 | Old Men's Refectory, Grey Nunnery, Montreal, QC, about 1890
Old Men's Refectory, Grey Nunnery, Montreal, QC, about 1890
James George Parks
1889-1894, 19th century
Silver salts on paper mounted on card - Albumen process
7 x 14 cm
Gift of Mrs. J. B. Learmont
MP-0000.2821
© McCord Museum
Description
Keywords: Architecture (8646) , Photograph (77678) , religious (1331)
Keys to History
While bishop of Montreal, Ignace Bourget strengthened the influence of the clergy by persuading a number of French religious orders to come to Canada and by promoting the growth of those already established in Montreal. Women's orders played a major role in this process, administering hospitals and being involved in social services and education.
-
What
One of the social services provided by nuns was the lodging of the elderly in establishments called hospices. This photograph taken by James Parks shows the interior of a men's hospice run by the Grey Nuns. Meals were served in a common room called a refectory.
-
Where
The Order of Grey Nuns (or Sisters of Charity) was founded in Montreal in the 18th century.
-
When
In the second half of the 19th century, women's religious orders expanded significantly in Quebec, with their membership increasing tenfold.
-
Who
The Order of Grey Nuns was founded by Marie-Marguerite Dufrost de Lajemmerais (1701-71), widow d'Youville, better known as Marguerite d'Youville, or Mother d'Youville.
References
- Danylewycz, Marta, Taking the Veil: An Alternative to Marriage, Motherhood, and Spinsterhood in Quebec, 1840-1920 (Toronto: McClelland and Stewart, 1987), 203 p.
Visitors' comments
Add a comment