Its archaeological, ethnohistorical, research and education collections make Pointe-à-Callière an unparalleled location for conserving and interpreting the traces of our city's past. Some of the archaeological collections are on display in the Museum and, more specifically, in the part of the remains showcased in the Where Montréal Was Born exhibition.

Archaeological collections

The remains, fragments and objects found on the Pointe à Callière and Place Royale sites are the basis of the Museum's archaeological collection.

Objects and fragments of different materials (ceramics, glass, metal, samples, ecofacts) tell us of all the periods of occupation of the site from 4,000 BC to the present.

Following work done by the Archaeological Field School of Pointe-à-Callière on Montréal’s birthplace, the Museum became the owner of archaeological collections. These fascinating collections are helping us document the days of Fort Ville-Marie, Callière's Residence and subsequent occupations.

Ethnohistorical collections

To round out the archaeological finds and put together coherent historical content that paints an overall portrait of the city’s past on the theme of Montréal, a crossroads of cultures and trade, the Museum acquires various items through donations or bequests. To date Pointe-à-Callière has amassed an ethnohistorical collection of objects and historic documents that are displayed in the Museum, kept in the reserves or at the Documentation Centre, as appropriate.

The Museum’s ethnohistorical collections consist of both historical and contemporary objects, works of art, printed material (books, maps, plans and drawings), original photographic and audiovisual material, models and reproductions.

our collections now available online !

It is now possible to consult Pointe-à-Callière's collections on the Internet. The Société des musées québécois' Info-Muse network and the Canadian Heritage Information Network's Artefacts Canada database have recently added to their content close to 1,000 information fact sheets digitized by Pointe-à-Callière.

Pointe-à-Callière's collections are available at:

* Société des musées québécois' Info-Muse network

* Artefacts Canada

The computerization, digitizing, and national dissemination of Pointe-à-Callière's collections has been made possible thanks to a financial contribution from Industry Canada's Francommunautés virtuelles programme.

Research and education collections

In line with its educational mission, the Museum has also assembled a “research and education” collection, consisting of archaeological and ethnohistorical items and reproductions (decorative items, costumes, accessories) used in educational and cultural activities.