Skip to main content
 The parliamentary city 1791 - 1840
FR Français
During the military occupation of Québec City between 1759 and 1871, garrisoned soldiers spent their time in a variety of ways. A typical schedule was divided into four types of days: drills, chores, on-call and off-duty. And of course, some soldiers were assigned to tasks that are all too familiar in Quebec, such as shovelling snow!
1822 - 1837

Winter living in Québec City in the early 19th century

Did you know that Québec City is one of the snowiest cities in the world? Its average annual snowfall is about 300 centimetres. Residents of Québec City have developed a way of life adapted to these conditions. In the 19th century, most streets were left covered in snow, and residents moved around by sleigh and snowshoe. Once the river froze over, thus inhibiting sea traffic, the city was cut off. City dwellers then spent a long collective winter in this bucolic setting. Relive these breathtakingly beautiful winters through the artwork of the period.
Close

Soldiers clearing snow from the artillery barracks yard, behind the Dauphine Barracks in Québec City

James Pattison Cockburn During the military occupation of Québec City between 1759 and 1871, garrisoned soldiers spent their time in a variety of ways. A typical schedule was divided into four types of days: drills, chores, on-call and off-duty. And of course, some soldiers were assigned to tasks that are all too familiar in Quebec, such as shovelling snow!
Chronoscope Do you recognize the buildings in the background? (unilingual French for a limited time)
Depicted period: 1830
Source: Library and Archives Canada Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Acc. No. 1970-188-302 - W. H. - Date: 1830
OPEN