The Heart and Soul of Saint-Henri

The fascinating living history of a unique Montréal neighbourhood!

Explore the history of Saint-Henri. Village, town, then neighbourhood—The Heart and Soul of Saint-Henri exhibition will take you on a journey down through the years, following the pace of the area’s economic development and the daily lives of its population.

To celebrate Saint-Henri’s unique place within the metropolis, while showcasing its community’s history, know-how, and culture, Pointe-à-Callière is presenting a moving exhibition that looks at the neighbourhood through the eyes of the men and women that forged its soul.

350 years of history to (re)discover

From the artisanal village of Saint-Henri des tanneries, to a prosperous industrial and working-class town, to today’s neighbourhood in transformation, each era has left its mark on history. The exhibition showcases 18th and 19th century objects from recent archaeological digs that bear witness to the neighbourhood’s artisanal tanning past, while exploring its industrial evolution through the diversity of manufactured products that built its reputation and shaped its architectural landscape. From its ongoing evolution to its pride in its past, the exhibition examines the neighbourhood’s changes and its current projects.

A dedicated and united community

From its founding to the present day, Saint-Henri has always been able to rely on an active population that has been invested in its evolution. The Museum has thereby chosen to present the history of Saint-Henri through the eyes of its inhabitants. You will explore the tanning trade of days past, the daily lives of workers, social struggles that have left their mark on Québec, as well as citizens’ activities in the cultural, religious, sports, and artistic spheres. Photos, audiovisual documents, and numerous objects on loan from the community punctuate the exhibition and bring first-hand accounts to life.

The exhibition also highlights the many innovative community and artistic initiatives that are shaking up the neighbourhood today.

See it now, until May 11, 2025!