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The image shows the whole of Old Québec in 1936, including the Lower Town and Upper Town. Renowned for its historic buildings, the fortified part of town got a controversial new construction in 1931. The 18-storey Price Building stood out from the heritage site panorama. Today, this Art Deco tower is a major feature in Québec City’s skyline.
1936 - 1937

Québec City’s big skies

Aerial photography took off in Québec City in the 1930s. In Québec City, this photography was mainly produced by William Bertram Edwards’ studio. After settling in Québec City, this British-born immigrant started a family and his children assimilated into the local French-speaking majority. For 75 years, the Edwards family captured the evolution of Québec City. Come aboard with W.B. Edwards’ team to see Québec City from the air in the 1930s! Can you identify the buildings that were then a part of people’s daily life?

Aerial view of Old Québec

W. B. Edwards Inc. The image shows the whole of Old Québec in 1936, including the Lower Town and Upper Town. Renowned for its historic buildings, the fortified part of town got a controversial new construction in 1931. The 18-storey Price Building stood out from the heritage site panorama. Today, this Art Deco tower is a major feature in Québec City’s skyline.
Chronoscope What other elements can you identify? (unilingual French for a limited time) Source: Ville de Québec Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - W. B. Edwards Inc. Fonds - Date: 1936