the sites that are proposed here, are located in chinatown, montreal downtown. the program is tuned to focus on a library and heritage/cultural center for the chinese and asia immigrants community.
CHINATOWN'S BIREF HISTORY
At the end of the 19th century, the area around de la Gauchetière and St-Laurent was populated by English, Irish, French Canadians, and some Jews. St-Laurent was called St. Lawrence the Main, and was a major commercial street. Almost all immigrant groups spent time in this area. Only the Chinese have remained.
During the 1940s, this was the seamiest
side of the city. One columnist wrote "whether you're looking for a gal
or gun, haircut or a hustler, a hock shop or a hamburger–you'll find it
on St. Lawrence boulevard. The area stagnated for decades. However, there
have been many positive changes in the past few years. Vietnamese and new
immigrants from Hong Kong have taken over much of St-Laurent between Viger
and René-Lévesque. On Sundays, the district has a marvellous
bazaar-like atmosphere. Grocers extend their stores onto the sidewalk with
fresh fruits, imported canned goods, and crates of thousand-year-old eggs
(actually, eggs which have been potted for about a month). On festival
days such as the August Moon, there are dragon dances, martial arts demonstrations,
games of Chinese chess, and of course, firecrackers."
