Skip to main content
The advent of mass production contributed to the dramatic increase in the number of automobiles in the 20th century. Cars had finally become affordable in the 1950s, making it possible for many households to buy one. This photograph bears witness to that fact, showing how gas stations and garages had become part of daily life in Sainte-Foy.
1950 - 1950

Life in Sainte-Foy in the 1950s

The town of Sainte-Foy dates back to the days of New France and remained a peaceful agricultural area on the outskirts of Québec City until the mid-20th century. Starting in the 1950s, post-war prosperity rapidly transformed the rural landscape. Roads, houses and cars multiplied, and the town quickly turned into a city suburb. Sainte-Foy’s population grew from 3,000 to 70,000 in 30 years. This album bears witness to the area’s explosive urban growth. Do you have any memories of that time? Share them with us!

Shell service station in Sainte-Foy

Auteur inconnu The advent of mass production contributed to the dramatic increase in the number of automobiles in the 20th century. Cars had finally become affordable in the 1950s, making it possible for many households to buy one. This photograph bears witness to that fact, showing how gas stations and garages had become part of daily life in Sainte-Foy.
Chronoscope Can you comment on this exciting period? (unilingual French for a limited time) Source: Ville de Québec Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Date: circa 1950