History & Mission

Exploring the Past: A Fascinating Journey Through the History and Mission of the Laurier Museum Society, Inc.

We are proud of our leading cultural and social role, and we place a special emphasis on social inclusion and accessibility. Join us for an authentic cultural experience in Victoriaville!

Mission

Through targeted efforts in research, collection, preservation, interpretation, and exhibition, the Société Musée Laurier (SML) is dedicated to documenting the history and the tangible and intangible heritage of the Bois-Francs region from 1800 to 1960.

The SML promotes the collections in its care through outreach, education, public engagement, and cultural mediation. It serves as a unifying force in the cultural, social, and tourism spheres at the national level, for the benefit of both present and future generations.

Much more than just a house: Le Musée Laurier

In 1876, Wilfrid Laurier and his wife, Zoé Lafontaine, had a Neo-Italianate Victorian-style residence built across from Laurier’s law office, based on plans by architect Louis Caron Senior.

Following their deaths, the house was bequeathed in 1921 to their niece, Pauline Laurier. She sold it to two businessmen from Westmount, Messrs. Cameron and Timmins. They immediately transferred ownership of the house to the Government of Quebec on the condition that a museum dedicated to the memory of Sir Wilfrid Laurier be established there.

The Laurier Museum opened its doors in May 1929. In 1989, the site was designated a Quebec Historic Monument, and in 2000, it was designated a National Historic Site of Canada.

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musee laurier

Clocher du Musée de l'Hôtel des postes

The History of the Post Office in Canada: The Hôtel des Postes Museum

Built in 1910 for the Canadian Department of Post, based on a design by Thomas Fuller, the Hôtel des Postes is considered Wilfrid Laurier’s final gift to Arthabaska, his adopted town.

This building is located on the same site where James Goodhue operated a general store with “a room serving as a post office” from 1866 to 1869.

In 1911, the post office moved into this imposing new building in the Second Empire style, and Calixte Leblanc became its first postmaster. From 1911 to 1965, when the post office closed, six postmasters served in succession.

Over the years, this place has served various purposes and been used for different activities.

In 1995, the Laurier Museum Society purchased this historic building, where it recreated a post office from the 1910s and 1920s and showcased the famous pendulum clock—which is still in working order—that adorns the building’s roof.

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Gathering Around History and Art History: Maison Fleury

Maison Fleury aims to raise cultural awareness among young people and adults. Serving as a venue for cultural programming, education, and outreach since 2003, Maison Fleury fosters a special connection with diverse audiences by providing them with access to culture through artistic and cultural activities and experiences.

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Maison Fleury

Grange Fleury

Experience the Theater: La Grange Fleury

The Laurier Museum Society has been offering children’s theater since the summer of 1988. This initiative, which began on a very small scale, took place in the early years on the porch and in the backyard of the Laurier Museum.

In 1990, the Laurier Museum Society acquired the property adjacent to the museum, the Fleury House, which included this sizable barn that would provide a unique setting for theater activities for young people. In July 1992, thanks to donations and major renovations, the Fleury Barn officially opened to young audiences. This venue provides them with affordable access to youth theater performances during the summer. It also fosters the emergence of new talent by allowing young students to gain experience in theater production.

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