René Lévesque

We invite you to discover this exceptional man recognized for profoundly having changed the face of Quebec. Even today, he embodies a democratic ideal and remains a model of politicians dedicated to the well-being of his fellow citizens.

Espace René Levesque

This project, national in scope, consist of a thematic interpretation park and a reception pavilion, and is aimed to present René Lévesque in relation to the evolution of modern Québec. The interpretative approach centres’s on the man, his career, his thoughts, and his actions, and the major elements of his contribution to the Révolution tranquille, his greatest achievements, and his legacy will be highlighted on the path.

His Childhood Home

16 Mountsorrel Street

During his youth, René Lévesque lived in the house at the corner of what is now known as René-Lévesque Avenue and Mountsorrel Street. In front of the residence there is a plaque that rests on a large rock commemorating this man. Although he was mischievous, René was an honest and generous child always sharing with his friends. Passing by, the locals could see René tied to the porch by his ankle so he couldn’t escape and get into any mischief. The house is unfortunately not open to the public by the current owner.

His Father's Office

The building directly in front of the town hall is where René Lévesque’s father Dominique used to have his law office. His mother would admit that his father was his greatest influence; he developed his passion for books, writing and politics. At eleven or twelve years old, René Lévesque already read all of Sir Wilfred Laurier’s speeches that his father had kept documented. René would sometimes visit his father in his office on his way to school.

CHNC Radio Station

Founded on December 23, 1933 by Charles Houde was a bilingual radio station until 1940. In the summer of 1936 Réne translated English news in French. Working for CHNC he had the chance to speak on the air, which was quite the ultimate opportunity for a boy of 13. This first taste of journalism is what gave birth to his passion for radio and communications.

The implication René had in radio at such a young age may have had a profound impact on his adult life. René had not only worked for CHNC but for CHRC as a replacement as advertiser from 1941 to 1942 and then worked at CBV in Quebec. He was a war correspondent for the American army in Europe in 1944-45; he made reports to London during the bombing and has even been one of the first reporters to be witness the concentration camps in Dachau. In 1952 during the Koreen war René once again was a reporter but this time correspondent for CBC.