Literary And Historical Society Of Quebec

I could not recommend this museum enough! What a wonderful hidden gem! I went at the 4pm guided "Discovery Tour," which is available in both French and English. This one was only in French (because I speak it--they offered to translate for me if need be!), since all the other guests spoke it natively. I believe our tour guide's name was Corinne. She was so informative and helpful to people of all ages, including both the little kids in the group and the elderly folks. Her humor when addressing the less-than-glamorous parts of the history of the prison was playfully irreverent and inclusive, and she answered each question with so much detail. To be honest, I never thought I would learn so much about a museum-turned-college-turned-literary-society-turned-library but here I am, and I absolutely loved it! A quick note: on Google Maps, it shows this place as a literary and historical society, but it primarily functions as a library, museum, and dance hall. It is very much worth the visit, for locals and tourists alike!
Aug 23rd, 2022

Loved the library and the prison. Docent allowed my husband to sit in solitary confinement. In the dark with the heavy door closed! I refused. The docent that guided our tour was fantastic. She was knowledgeable about the books and how they were acquired by Mr. Dalhousie for the English speaking College. Stop in and enjoy a tour. Make sure to ask about the most interesting attempted prisoner escape, and who would take a mattress? So much interesting history here. Like, why did so many women purposely get put into this prison while pregnant? You must go find our yourself.
Jun 1st, 2022

Wonderful tour by highly amusing guide and actress. Great for readers of Louise Penny's Bury Your Dead and all others.
Jan 2nd, 2022