Québec City experienced major fires in the 19th century. The most memorable were undoubtedly those of 1845. On May 28 and June 28, flames destroyed the Saint-Roch, Saint-Jean and Saint-Louis districts. Other major fires also swept through in 1866, 1876 and 1881, ravaging whole sections of the city. Each time, hundreds, if not thousands, of people had to rebuild their homes and reorganize their daily lives. Fire departments began to develop in the late 19th century, reducing the frequency and scale of these fires. This album bears witness to the residents’ courage in these difficult times.
Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper
The Saint-Louis district, in the heart of Québec City, was destroyed by fire in 1876. Its inhabitants took refuge on the Plains of Abraham, the great historic park where the British had captured New France in the decisive battle a century earlier. In 1876, this area was more usually used by the local burghers to play cricket.
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