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Originally a strategic point in the city’s military defenses, Des Remparts Street holds a special place in history. In 1872, a newly appointed governor-general of Canada, Lord Dufferin, noted the fortification’s high tourist potential and prevented its demolition at the very last minute. He then launched a restoration program. This 1936 photo shows the success of these preservation efforts.
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. Originally a strategic point in the city’s military defenses, Des Remparts Street holds a special place in history. In 1872, a newly appointed governor-general of Canada, Lord Dufferin, noted the fortification’s high tourist potential and prevented its demolition at the very last minute. He then launched a restoration program. This 1936 photo shows the success of these preservation efforts.
Chronoscope Can you locate this legendary street on the map? (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