Old Custom House, Montreal facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Custom House |
|
|---|---|
|
Ancienne-Douane
|
|
 |
|
| General information | |
| Architectural style | Palladian revival |
| Coordinates | 45°30′09″N 73°33′15″W / 45.502565°N 73.554218°W |
| Construction started | 1836 |
| Completed | 1838 |
| Renovated | 1881-1882 |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect | John Ostell |
| Official name: Former Montreal Custom House National Historic Site of Canada | |
| Designated: | 1997 |
The Old Custom House (also known as Ancienne-Douane in French) is a very old and important building in Old Montreal, Canada. It was once Montreal's very first custom house. A custom house is a place where government officials check goods that are brought into or sent out of a country. They also collect taxes on these goods.
This historic building was finished in 1838. It was designed by a famous Montreal architect named John Ostell. He used a special style called Palladian revival, which is inspired by classic Roman and Greek architecture. Today, the Old Custom House is recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada. This means it's a very important place in Canadian history. You can now find the gift shop for the Pointe-à-Callière Museum inside this beautiful building.
Contents
History of the Building
The Old Custom House played a key role in Montreal's early trade. It helped manage all the goods coming in and out of the city. This was very important for the economy of the time.
Design and Construction
The building's construction began in 1836 and was completed in 1838. John Ostell, the architect, was known for his grand designs. The Palladian revival style he used gives the building a classic, balanced look. It often includes features like tall columns and symmetrical windows.
A National Historic Site
In 1997, the Old Custom House was officially named a National Historic Site of Canada. This honor shows how important the building is to Canada's past. It helps us remember Montreal's role in trade and its architectural heritage.
What is a Custom House?
A custom house is a government office. Its main job is to control what products enter and leave a country. Officials at a custom house make sure that all rules about trade are followed. They also collect special taxes, called customs duties, on imported goods. These taxes help fund government services.
The Old Custom House Today
Today, the Old Custom House no longer serves as a place for customs. Instead, it has found a new purpose. It now hosts the gift shop for the Pointe-à-Callière Museum. This museum is a popular spot in Old Montreal that explores the city's history. Visitors can explore the museum and then stop by the gift shop in this historic building.
Images for kids
-
The Old Custom House in 1886 during a flood.
-
A historical marker explaining the building's importance.
