The Boucher-De Niverville Manor, nestled in the heart of Trois-Rivières, Quebec, is a captivating relic of Canada’s French colonial past. This historic residence stands proudly at 168 Bonaventure Street, offering visitors a glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage of the 17th century. As one of the few remaining edifices from the French regime, the manor is a testament to the enduring legacy of New France.
The story of the Boucher-De Niverville Manor begins in 1646, when the Compagnie des Cent-Associés granted a parcel of land to François de Champflour, the governor of Trois-Rivières. This land changed hands in 1649, when it was sold to Jacques Leneuf de La Poterie, a fur trade merchant. By 1668, Leneuf had constructed a two-story house on the property, likely made of timber framing. This early residence included various outbuildings, a courtyard, and a garden, providing a picturesque setting just outside the burgeoning town.
In 1729, the estate was acquired by François Chastelain, an officer in the French marine companies and the seigneur of Sainte-Marguerite. Chastelain transformed the manor, replacing the timber with stone masonry and expanding the structure to its current form. This renovation endowed the manor with its distinctive appearance, blending rustic charm with French elegance.
The manor's history took another turn in 1761, when it was inherited by Marie-Josephte Chastelain and her husband, Joseph-Claude Boucher de Niverville. A notable figure, Boucher de Niverville had a distinguished military career, serving in the French Army and participating in significant battles such as the capture of Fort William Henry and the Battle of Sainte-Foy. His legacy is intertwined with the manor, which remained in the Boucher de Niverville family for several decades.
The Boucher-De Niverville Manor is a quintessential example of rural French-inspired architecture. Its rectangular structure, oriented perpendicularly to Bonaventure Street, is constructed from stone masonry, a testament to its durability and historical significance. The manor's low, ground-hugging profile and asymmetrical window placement add to its unique charm.
The windows, adorned with small panes and double shutters, reflect the architectural style of the era. The steeply pitched hipped roof, covered with cedar shingles, completes the manor's picturesque silhouette. Inside, the walls are whitewashed, accented by soot-darkened plinths, while the fireplaces are crafted from cut stone, providing warmth and character to the interior spaces.
Visitors to the Boucher-De Niverville Manor can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of New France's bourgeois life. The manor, operated in conjunction with the Boréalis Museum, offers exhibitions that transport guests back to a time of exploration and cultural fusion. The displays highlight the daily life and social customs of the era, providing a window into the past.
As you wander through the manor, imagine the stories that echo within its walls. From the bustling fur trade to the strategic military campaigns, the manor has borne witness to pivotal moments in Canadian history. Each room, with its carefully preserved details, invites you to step back in time and experience the world of its former inhabitants.
Despite the passage of time and the trials of history, the Boucher-De Niverville Manor has endured. It survived the great fire of Trois-Rivières in 1908, which devastated much of the city. In 1940, the manor was purchased by the Tricentennial Committee, and later acquired by the city in 1951. Recognized for its historical significance, the manor was designated a historic monument on March 30, 1960.
Restoration efforts in the 1970s ensured that the manor's architectural integrity was preserved, allowing future generations to appreciate its beauty and historical importance. Today, the Boucher-De Niverville Manor stands as a proud symbol of Trois-Rivières' rich heritage, inviting visitors to explore its storied past.
In conclusion, the Boucher-De Niverville Manor is more than just a historic building; it is a portal to the past, offering insights into the lives and times of those who shaped the region. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, a trip to this enchanting manor promises a journey through time, where the echoes of New France still resonate in the heart of Quebec.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.