Saint-Vincent-de-Paul Penitentiary: A Historic Site Facing an Uncertain Future
The Saint-Vincent-de-Paul Penitentiary, located in Laval, Québec, stands as a stark reminder of Canada’s criminal justice history. Opened in 1873, it served as the country’s second federal penitentiary and, for over a century, was the sole francophone correctional facility in Canada . Despite its historical significance, designated as a National Historic Site of Canada in 1990 , the site has fallen into disrepair and its future remains uncertain.
A Century of Criminal Justice
Originally constructed as a reformatory, Saint-Vincent-de-Paul Penitentiary witnessed over a century of changes in Canadian criminal justice practices . The penitentiary’s architecture, including its exterior appearance and setting, contributes to its heritage value . Ironically, much of the penitentiary was built by the prisoners themselves, with inmates breaking stone and transporting blocks to raise the walls . For years, prisoners were even used as forced labor by the municipality, working on local roads and infrastructure .
From Alcatraz of the North to Neglect
Following its closure in 1989 , there were initial proposals to transform the site into a tourist attraction, dubbed the “Alcatraz of the North” . However, these plans failed to materialize. For over thirty years, the site has remained largely abandoned, leading to deterioration and the destruction of some of its original structures . The site was closed to the public in 2007 after mold was discovered within its walls .
Recent Developments and Future Plans
The future of the Saint-Vincent-de-Paul Penitentiary is currently under discussion between the City of Laval and the federal government. In February 2022, Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer met with the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Pablo Rodriguez, to discuss the site’s repurposing . A strategic divestment process was initiated in 2018, with the goal of transferring the property to Canada Lands Company (CLC) . The federal government intends to redevelop the site into affordable housing and community spaces, with the transfer expected to be completed in 2025 .
A Site of Historical Significance
The Saint-Vincent-de-Paul Penitentiary has a complex history, marked by revolts, mutinies, and the imprisonment of notable figures such as Jacques Mesrine, Paul Rose, Francis Simard, and Richard Blass . The site likewise served as a reflection of societal fears regarding crime, sexuality, and radicalism . The preservation of this historic site is crucial for understanding Quebec’s social history and the evolution of Canada’s correctional system.