Lecture - Witchcraft and herbalism in New France: when history and archaeology meet

A historical investigation into herbalism

Since 2014, archaeologist Simon Santerre has been leading excavations on Saint-Paul Street, Montréal's oldest thoroughfare, on behalf of the City. In 2019, the discovery of plant remains on the former property of Simon Guillory and Louise Bouchard, dating back to the 17th century, shed light on herbalism practices linked to women's knowledge in New France.

These discoveries caught the attention of historian Stéphan Martel, a specialist in witchcraft in New France, particularly the case of Anne de Lamarque, a Montréal woman suspected of practicing magic. Anne de Lamarque and Louise Bouchard were neighbors: why was one associated with witchcraft while the other remained anonymous?

This lecture combines archaeology and history to explore the links between herbalism, superstitions, and practices associated with witchcraft under French rule.

Simon Santerre

Simon Santerre has been practicing archaeology for over 20 years. As a project archaeologist with Ethnoscop, he has led over a hundred projects throughout Québec, mainly in the cities of Montréal and Québec City. He has been responsible for directing excavations as part of the Saint-Paul Street renovation project in Montréal since 2014. At the same time, he is pursuing a doctorate at Laval University, where his research focuses on the archaeology of French cities in North America, from their founding to the outbreak of the Seven Years' War. He specializes in urban archaeology, fortifications, and architectural archaeology.

Stéphan Martel

Stéphan Martel is currently assistant director and head of research at the Marguerite-Bourgeoys Historic Site in Old Montréal. With a bachelor's degree in history, a minor in classical studies, and a master's degree in the history of New France from the University of Montréal, Mr. Martel completed his doctoral studies in colonial history. In addition to having twenty years of experience in archival research, he is the author of historical articles and a frequent lecturer.

This lecture is presented by Société historique de Montréal.