De Tonnancour Manor, nestled in the charming city of Trois-Rivières in Quebec, Canada, is a historical gem that beckons visitors with its rich past and cultural significance. This stately manor, located at 864 Rue des Ursulines, has stood the test of time since its construction in the early 18th century. Today, it houses the Galerie d'art du Parc, an accredited exhibition center, making it a vibrant hub for art and history enthusiasts alike.
The story of De Tonnancour Manor begins in 1723-1725 when it was built for René Godefroy de Tonnancour and his wife Marguerite Ameau. This couple, parents to ten children, laid the foundation for a legacy that would endure for centuries. The manor originally served as both a residence and a commercial space, reflecting the dual roles of its owners as royal prosecutors, judges, and merchants.
In 1738, the manor passed to their son, Louis-Joseph Godefroy de Tonnancour, who continued to uphold the family's esteemed position in society. Louis-Joseph, along with his two wives, Mary-Ann Seamen and later Louise Carrerot, raised sixteen children within these historic walls. The manor was a bustling center of activity, embodying the spirit of the era.
In May 1784, a devastating fire ravaged De Tonnancour Manor, destroying the upper floors and leaving the building in ruins. For eleven long years, the once-proud manor stood abandoned, a shadow of its former self. However, in 1795, Judge Pierre-Louis Deschenaux and his wife Marie-Josephte Perreault acquired the property and embarked on a mission to restore it to its former glory.
The Deschenaux family added a third floor made of wood to the existing two stone floors and transformed the roof into a mansard style, giving the manor its distinctive appearance. Judge Deschenaux, an avid scholar with a passion for astronomy, mathematics, literature, and music, filled the manor with an impressive library of 1,500 volumes. This collection made it one of the most significant private libraries in Trois-Rivières at the time, reflecting the judge's intellectual pursuits and cultural interests.
In 1812, the government acquired the manor, converting it into military barracks for officers stationed in Trois-Rivières. A decade later, in 1822, Bishop Joseph-Octave Plessis of Quebec purchased the building on behalf of the parish of Trois-Rivières. The manor then served as a presbytery, providing a residence for the clergy.
When Father Thomas Cooke was elevated to the position of the first bishop of Trois-Rivières in 1852, the manor also became the episcopal residence. It remained the bishop's residence until 1874, when Bishop Louis-François Richer Laflèche moved to a newly constructed seminary. During this period, the manor played a crucial role in the religious life of the community, hosting significant events and dignitaries.
In 1882, the Jesuit Fathers took up residence in the manor, serving as professors at the Grand Seminary and ministers at the nearby parish church. The manor, known as Maison Immaculée-Conception, remained under their care until 1889. After a period of vacancy, the community of the Filles de Jésus acquired the property in 1902. They established the Jardin de l'enfance, a primary school for boys, which operated until 1966.
That same year, De Tonnancour Manor was designated as a historical monument, recognizing its architectural and cultural significance. In 1976, the City of Trois-Rivières took ownership of the manor, and in 1981, it became the home of the Galerie d'art du Parc. This transformation marked a new era for the manor, blending its rich heritage with contemporary artistic expression.
Today, visitors to De Tonnancour Manor can explore its storied past while immersing themselves in the vibrant world of contemporary art. The Galerie d'art du Parc hosts a diverse array of exhibitions, showcasing the works of local, national, and international artists. The juxtaposition of modern art within the historic walls of the manor creates a unique and captivating experience.
As you wander through the manor, you'll be transported back in time, imagining the lives of the Godefroy de Tonnancour family, the scholarly pursuits of Judge Deschenaux, and the spiritual devotion of the clergy who once called this place home. The manor's architecture, with its stone walls and mansard roof, stands as a testament to the resilience and evolution of this remarkable building.
De Tonnancour Manor is more than just a historical site; it is a living testament to the enduring spirit of Trois-Rivières. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the past, a visit to De Tonnancour Manor promises a journey through time and a celebration of culture and creativity. So, come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Mauricie, where history and art converge in a harmonious embrace.
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