CNHS - Old Wendake Historic District - Wendake. Québec
Posted by: 
Weathervane
N 46° 51.350 W 071° 21.319
19T E 320457 N 5191836
Old Wendake Historic District was designated a national historic site of Canada in 2000 because: it is a remarkable example of a community which survived the dispersal of the inhabitants of Huronia, an event of national historic significance.
Waymark Code: WM14MW5
Location: Québec, Canada
Date Posted: 07/28/2021
Views: 3
The urban layout of Old Wendake recalls the traditional method of land use typical of the proto-historic Huron village, while its architecture reflects European building typology; it is an evolving cultural landscape which evokes the "reinstatement of Huron values."
The heritage value of this site resides in the topography and settlement forms of the district, including land-usage patterns and architecture that speak to the 300 years of settlement in this area. During the first half of the 17th century, the Huron-Wendat, who lived and farmed in Huronia just south of Georgian Bay in Ontario, became major fur trading partners with the French. In 1650, devastated by famine, conflict, and contagious diseases from Europe, the Huron-Wendat dispersed from their lands, establishing themselves permanently at Jeune-Lorette. The district was renamed Old Wendake in 1697.
Old Wendake Historic District presents an excellent example of co-existing cultural influences. Rather than adhering to a geometric plan, the district was constructed around natural elements. For example, the primary entrances of its buildings generally face south-east, regardless of which side of the lot faces the street. This layout is similar to traditional Huron villages, although many of the buildings were constructed in European-inspired styles after 1730. In addition, the street blocks are densely formed to allow for pedestrian traffic between houses, fostering a sense of community and public space while facilitating an economic system structured on the basis of cottage industries. The custom of naming streets after former chiefs of the nation demonstrates the relationship that the Huron-Wendat have with this site today, because it supports their collective memory, livelihood and history.
Sources: Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, Minutes, June 2000, April 2008.
Classification: National Historic Site
Province or Territory: Quebec
Location - City name/Town name: Wendake, Québec
Link to Parks Canada entry (must be on www.pc.gc.ca): [Web Link]
Link to HistoricPlaces.ca: [Web Link]
|
Visit Instructions:As a suggestion for your visit log, please make every effort to supply a brief-to-detailed note about your experience at the Waymark. If possible also include an image that was taken when you visited the Waymark. Images can be of yourself, a personal Waymarking signature item or just one of general interest that would be of value to others. Sharing your experience helps promote Waymarking and provides a dynamic history of your adventures.