Pointe-Claire in 1831, as seen from the tip of the point. Drawing by James Duncan

The historical center of the municipality of Pointe-Claire was developed in an exceptional natural and geographical setting. The buildings established in the parish core, as well as the point itself — jutting into Lake St. Louis, and referred to in the municipality’s name — are reminders of the past which clearly illustrate this to visitors. This rich natural and architectural heritage also stretches beyond the point, mainly along a strip of land bordering the lake.

The idea of a heritage tour guide originated with the city’s Millennium Committee. The selection of sites that it encompasses, while not exhaustive of the city’s rich history and architecture, does present significant landmarks. These landmarks are illustrated and perpetuated in our memory, at this, the beginning of the third millennium. The guide includes descriptions and illustrations of the buildings in the parish centre, representative samples of rural and village architecture, an example of cottage architecture, a garden-city project, a private chapel, Pointe-Claire’s first manufacturing site, and a historic flight.