Bourgeoys, Marguerite National Historic Person
Montréal, Quebec
Soeur Marguerite Bourgeoys
(© Parks)
Address :
4245 Décarie Boulevard (corner of Monkland), Montréal, Quebec
Recognition Statute:
Historic Sites and Monuments Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. H-4)
Designation Date:
1985-06-17
Life Date:
1620 to 1700
Other Name(s):
-
Bourgeoys, Marguerite
(Designation Name)
Importance:
Founded the Congrégation de Notre-Dame (1658), first Canadian religious community
Plaque(s)
Existing plaque: 4245 Décarie Boulevard (corner of Monkland), Montréal, Quebec
Marguerite Bourgeoys left an indelible mark on the religious life of New France. Arriving in Ville-marie in 1653, she opened the first school for girls on 30 April 1658, and shortly thereafter founded the Congrégation de Notre-Dame, the first Canadian religious community. The Sisters of the Congrégation were not cloistered, contrary to the custom of the time. Devoted to teaching, they travelled widely throughout the colony establishing schools, many of which are still in existence. Marguerite Bourgeoys was canonized in 1982.