Montreal Masonic Temple Receives C$425,000 Preservation Grant

The Canadian government will be contributing C$425,000 to support a conservation project at the Masonic Memorial Temple, in Montreal, Quebec, which is considered one of the finest examples of Beaux-Arts style in Canada. It is the home of the Grand Lodge of Quebec, and includes meeting rooms for lodges and appendant organizations, the grand lodge library, and a series of historic murals. The Temple was designed by Scottish-born architect John Smith Archibald. Dedicated and officially opened June 22, 1929, it was added to the register of National Historic Sites of Canada in 2006.

The investment in the Temple is part of Canada's Economic Action Plan, which includes major investments in national historic sites to encourage growth in tourism. The announcement was made by Senator W. David Angus, on behalf of Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.

According to a release on the Parks Canada website:

Brian Dillon, Heritage Vice President of the Masonic Memorial Temple declared, “We are most appreciative of Parks Canada for their interest in preserving the architectural heritage of Montreal. Their technical and financial support are very encouraging in our efforts to preserve this unique historical treasure: The Montreal Memorial Masonic Temple.”

“This project will help the Masonic Memorial Temple be a destination of choice for travellers,” said Minister Prentice. “In our Economic Action Plan, we recognize just how important history, heritage and tourism are to the economy, and the important role that our Cost-Sharing Program will play supporting local economies, as well as to the fabric of national historic sites.

National historic sites contribute to tourism in over 400 communities across Canada through direct spending, visitor spending and spin-off economic activity. The National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program, with a budget of $20 million provided in part by Canada’s Economic Action Plan, reflects the government’s desire to support job creation by providing funding for conservation of national historic sites. This Program provides opportunities for skilled construction and conservation professionals to work on national historic sites across the country.

The National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program is a contribution program that can pay up to 50% of eligible costs incurred by the owner to conserve a national historic site and present it to Canadians for their enjoyment and appreciation. Eligible recipients include other levels of government, not-for-profit organizations and not-for-profit aboriginal organizations.

Oh, Canada!