This watercolour by Cockburn depicts a winter view of the Upper Town Market in Québec City. Begun in the 17th century, this open-air market was a meeting place for city dwellers and country folk alike, and a major economic driver for the city. This image captures the vibrancy of the area around 1830.

1801 - 1832

Québec City’s marketplace in the early 19th century

The first market in Québec City opened in Place Royale in 1649. As the city’s population grew and the economy expanded, at least a dozen markets sprung up in the 19th century. These included the Place du Marché in Québec City’s Upper Town. This market became a strategic meeting place for town and country folk alike, to conduct business, stock up on goods and exchange the latest news. At first held out of doors, it eventually moved into an indoor market building. Ready to go shopping?

The Upper Town Market, with Notre-Dame Basilica and the seminary in winter

James Pattison Cockburn This watercolour by Cockburn depicts a winter view of the Upper Town Market in Québec City. Begun in the 17th century, this open-air market was a meeting place for city dwellers and country folk alike, and a major economic driver for the city. This image captures the vibrancy of the area around 1830.

Chronoscope Do you recognize any buildings? (unilingual French for a limited time)

Depicted period: 1830

Source: Library and Archives Canada Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Date: 1830

OPEN