Watercolourist James Pattison Cockburn’s lofty perspective reveals a route leading from Sous-le-Fort Street to the frozen river. Shortly before 1822, the street was extended toward the St. Lawrence and was the main road leading to the ice bridge. In the distance, we see citydwellers headed toward this seasonal passageway, which seems to be slowly melting away, while boats winter on snow-covered flats.

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.

Sous-le-Fort Street in winter, seen from Château Saint-Louis

James Pattison Cockburn Watercolourist James Pattison Cockburn’s lofty perspective reveals a route leading from Sous-le-Fort Street to the frozen river. Shortly before 1822, the street was extended toward the St. Lawrence and was the main road leading to the ice bridge. In the distance, we see citydwellers headed toward this seasonal passageway, which seems to be slowly melting away, while boats winter on snow-covered flats.

Chronoscope Do you recognize any of the buildings in this picture? (unilingual French for a limited time)

Depicted period: 1830

Source: Library and Archives Canada Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Acc. No. 1989-260-8 - Date: 1830

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