Old Custom House, Montreal facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Custom House |
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Ancienne-Douane
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| 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 the main place where officials checked goods coming into the city and collected taxes on them. This building was finished in 1836. It was designed by a famous architect named John Ostell. The building has a special look called the Palladian revival style. Today, it is recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada. You can find the gift shop for the Pointe-à-Callière Museum inside it now.
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What is a Custom House?
A custom house is a special building where government officials work. Their job is to check all the goods that come into a country or city from other places. They also collect taxes, called "customs duties," on these goods. This helps the government earn money and control what enters the country.
Why Was Montreal's Custom House Important?
In the 1800s, Montreal was a very busy port city. Many ships arrived with goods from all over the world. The Old Custom House was vital for managing this trade. It made sure that all imported goods were properly recorded and taxed. This helped Montreal grow and become an important center for business.
The Building's Design and History
The Old Custom House was built between 1836 and 1838. It was designed by John Ostell, a well-known architect in Montreal at that time. He chose the Palladian revival style for the building. This style is inspired by the grand buildings of ancient Rome and Greece. It often features columns, balanced shapes, and a formal look.
A National Historic Site
Because of its important role in Canada's history and its beautiful architecture, the Old Custom House was named a National Historic Site of Canada in 1997. This means it's a special place that the country wants to protect and remember.
What is it Used for Today?
The Old Custom House no longer serves as a place for customs. Instead, it is now part of the Pointe-à-Callière Museum. The building houses the museum's gift shop, where visitors can buy souvenirs and learn more about Montreal's past. It's a great example of how old buildings can be given new life.
Gallery
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In 1886 during a flood
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Historical marker
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