Rue Sainte-Catherine: Archaeological discoveries
Archaeological excavations on the site of the Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest redevelopment project have uncovered some archaeological remains dating from the 1860s.
A little background
The city undertakes archaeological digs before starting infrastructure work or developing streets and parks. This policy has been in effect since the early 1990s.
Between 2016 and 2019, excavations took place on Rue Peel and Rue Sherbrooke, uncovering valuable Iroquois artifacts. This area borders the Dawson site, the first archaeological site ever identified in Québec, bringing to light the only village site attributed to the St. Lawrence Iroquoians on the island of Montréal.
Excavations of Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest
Since the construction area is close to the locations that were studied between 2016 and 2019, its archaeological potential was significant.
The excavations took place between August 23 and September 20. The areas being studied are the south side of Rue Sainte-Catherine between Rue Peel and Rue Metcalfe, as well as Rue Metcalfe north of Rue Sainte-Catherine.
Several layers of soil that have never been disturbed were discovered. Also, small pieces of ceramics dating from the 19th century were found.
Excavations on the south side of Rue Sainte-Catherine led to a significant discovery. Structures dating back to the 1860s were found, including an old foundation wall of the front facade of the Dominion Square building and a probable coalfall.
No Indigenous remnants were found on the portion that was studied.
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