NDG Historical Society opened a new exhibit in the heart of Montreal’s Notre‑Dame‑de‑Grace neighbourhood on Tuesday, 2026, to mark the area’s 150th anniversary. The exhibit, curated by society member Jeffrey Kastner, shines a light on episodes of the neighbourhood’s past that are rarely featured in mainstream histories. Visitors are invited to explore the timeline of the district, which was first laid out in the late nineteenth century as a residential enclave for workers and families. By focusing on stories that have remained out of the public eye, the display seeks to broaden understanding of the community’s development over more than a century.
The society’s decision to launch the exhibit coincides with a series of events planned across the neighbourhood to celebrate the milestone. Local schools, community groups and longtime residents are expected to attend the opening, which includes guided tours and informational panels. Organisers say the project underscores the importance of preserving local heritage as the area continues to evolve.
Notre‑Dame‑de‑Grace, known for its historic architecture and multicultural population, has seen significant change since its founding in the 1870s. The new exhibit adds to a growing body of work that documents the neighbourhood’s transformation from its early days of modest housing to its present status as a vibrant urban quarter. By presenting lesser‑known chapters of the past, the NDG Historical Society hopes to foster a sense of continuity for both newcomers and longtime inhabitants.
The launch marks the society’s latest effort to engage the public with the district’s rich history. As the 150th anniversary celebrations progress throughout the year, the exhibit will remain open to the public, offering an ongoing resource for anyone interested in the story of Notre‑Dame‑de‑Grace.