Remains

The port as we know it today is the result of major development work done in the early 20th century. The years 1896 to 1930 were the Port of Montréal’s golden years, a time when it was the destination of trans-Atlantic ships and trains from all over North America. Millions of tonnes of merchandise travelled through Montréal, and to meet demand, the port modernized its facilities by building structures such as grain elevators, sheds and higher quays.

Relics of this heyday are still visible, like giants from another era. If you listen, they will tell you the fascinating history of the Port of Montréal.

Grain Elevator n° 5

Central section of grain elevator no. 5 in 1920.
Musée McCord / VIEW-19569

The three sections of grain elevator no. 5 today.
© Pierre Chantelois

The capacity of this huge grain storage facility was increased three times over the years to meet the needs of the Port of Montréal, which had become one of the most important grain ports in the world.

At the turn of the 20th century, the Port of Montréal was growing in importance. With the beginning of transcontinental freight rail, the transshipment of goods, especially of grain, grew significantly.

With port activity increasing, grain processors and flour mills opened near the port. The central, all-metal, portion of grain elevator no. 5 was built by the Grand Trunk Railway. In later decades, concrete extensions were built to the east and west to meet the changing demands of the trade.

Whether it arrived by ship or by train, grain was transferred into the elevators by dock workers. Working conditions were very demanding. Grain dust irritated eyes and lungs and was also very flammable. A serious accident occurred on December 1, 1924, when an explosion occurred inside elevator no. 5, killing one person and injuring four others.

Although out of service since 1995, this temple to modern times remains noteworthy for its unique combination of construction styles. It stands as a poignant monument to those workers of days gone by.