Marine Puech, the speaker will explain the history and archaeology of the Irish cemetery in Pointe-Saint-Charles. Used from 1847-1848, this site bears witness to the arrival of thousands of Irish fleeing the Great Famine. The presentation highlights the efforts made to protect and document this site during the construction of the Réseau Express Métropolitain (REM). The origins of the cemetery, the deplorable living conditions of the Irish immigrants and the challenges encountered during the archaeological excavations will be discussed. Paleopathological and isotopic analyses of the burials uncovered provide details on the health, diet and geographical origins of fourteen of the deceased. However, thousands of burials remain in place, testifying to the scale of this tragedy. Finally, the speaker will outline initiatives to commemorate the site, including the creation of a commemorative park to rediscover this essential part of Montreal’s history and pay tribute to those who suffered.
The lecture will take place on April 9, from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., at the Saint-Lambert library.
Marine Puech holds a master’s degree in anthropology from the Université de Montréal, with a specialization in bioarchaeology. From 2011 to 2023, she worked for the firm Ethnoscop, leading inventory and excavation projects, mainly in urban settings. Since 2023, she has been an archaeologist and environmental consultant at Hydro-Québec.
Note: Given in French with bilingual question period.
Photo: Construction site viewed from top of Victoria Bridge, Montréal, Québec. 1858-1859. (Photograph by William Notman, Source: Musée McCord: N-0000.392.2.21)
