site history

Site history

The Redpath Sugar building began construction in 1854 by John Redpath who arrived in Canada in 1816 at age 20, following the second phase of reconstruction of the Lachine Canal, and at a time of unprecedent industrial expansion in Montreal. He was commissioned to build the Lachine Canal and other structures, including the Montreal General Hospital. At that time, it was one of the major industries in the city. In 1861, Redpath was one of the largest producers by dollar value. The buildings constructed at a time when hydro power from the canal was a significant source of energy for industry. But, for the refinery, canal water was used for the refining process—in the boilers to supply steam power and in melting and cooling. The attributes of the canal for Redpath were primarily transportation links. Ships were able to sail right up to the refinery and it was close to the Grand Trunk for rail transport. The need for modernization in 1979 forced the company to close the complex.

The complex was designed by John Ostell in 1854, a leading Montreal architect. Sugar refining is a complex process, the various stages of which explain the building’s huge volume. Ostell organized space vertically. Raw sugar “moves from the upper to the lower stories and undergoes processing along the way. The height and number of stories reflect the requirements of its process”. He created a baroque palace and divided the seven-story building into two main level. The first two stories, constituting the basement, were in stone masonry. On top of that was five-story brick masonry. The building was covered by a hipped roof. In 1908, the building was raised, the most of capping elements disappeared. The style changed over years driven by needs and refining operation, now it is much vogue.

Time Event

1854 Redpath refinery built on land formerly owned by the Suplicians at cost of $40,000.

1871 Expansion and modernization of the refinery (designed and engineered by Gorge A. Drummond. The expansion was a new wing, east of the existing building at a cost of $150,000.

1876 Refinery closed due to depression and to USA competition.

1879 Expansion and modernization period began, which last until 1887—additions to the east along the canal.

1892 New refinery to house “steffan” process.

1912 Seven-story building built to the east the “steffan” refinery.

1925 Construction of a new boiler house and special packing building.

1946 Expansion and modernization

1979 Refinery closed.

1982 Partial demolition

(Lachine Canal report, by Parks Canada and the city of Montreal)

Change line