Background

The Maison Augustin-Brisebois (formerly the Maison Gomez) is located on Gouin Boulevard, along the waterfront. The Pierrefonds-Roxboro borough, which has owned the property since 2018, is currently exploring options for redeveloping the site (including both the house and the land). 

Although the house does not have official status under the Cultural Heritage Act, it is recognized as an exceptional historic building in the 2050 Land Use and Mobility Plan. It stands as a significant testament to Montreal’s agricultural past and is listed in the inventory of historic farmhouses. The building is notable for: 

• its architectural authenticity; 

• the quality of its surroundings; 

• its representativeness of rural architecture from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. 

After several years of neglect, punctuated by safety measures, restoration and renovation work is now being planned. 

The Service de l’urbanisme et de la mobilité, through its Urban heritage, is currently assisting the borough, particularly in preparing a statement of heritage significance for the building. 

Ongoing procedures

At this stage, the borough is beginning to consider the direction the development project should take. It recognizes, however, the importance of basing this process on a thorough analysis of the site’s archaeological potential. 

With this in mind, an archaeological survey, supported by historical research, will be conducted. The survey will be carried out by Arkéos, a firm specializing in anthropological research. 

• The planned period is from June 15 to July 3, 2026 (subject to change depending on weather and terrain conditions).
• This project is being carried out under the 2024–2027 Montréal Cultural Development Agreement between the Ministry of Culture and Communications and the City of Montreal. 

Archaeological and historical significance

The site has significant archaeological potential, in particular by: 

• the proximity of the Rivière des Prairies, suggesting that Indigenous peoples inhabited the area in the past;
• historical records indicating land grants dating back to 1730–1750.

The land was once part of a larger estate granted by the Sulpicians in the early 17th century. 

The house is named after Augustin Brisebois (1765–1831), a member of a family of farmers who owned the property from 1767 to 1877. 

According to the City of Montréal’s property assessment roll, the building is estimated to have been constructed in 1830. However, preliminary research suggests that the building may be older.

Research Objectives

Historical research and archaeological work will make it possible to: 

• specify the date the house was built;
• identify ancillary buildings and facilities associated with: 
  • agricultural use;
  • domestic use.
• document the occupation of the site (including potential Indigenous occupation);
• gain a better understanding of the historical spatial organization of the property.

Issues and Scope

This project represents a strategic opportunity to:

• document a site of significant historical and archaeological value;
• provide informed guidance for restoration efforts;
• support future cultural and heritage initiatives;
• and contribute to the preservation of Montreal’s agricultural heritage.