Quebec heritage site, former home of renowned artist, destroyed by fire

MONTREAL: A fire has completely destroyed a heritage site in Montreal that used to be the home of the famous artist Charles Daudelin. It’s such a shame to see it go.

The fire broke out Sunday night in Kirkland, and it took around 40 firefighters about five hours to put it out. Sadly, the building was vacant at the time.

Daudelin was a well-known sculptor and painter, and his work has been showcased in places like Ottawa, Quebec, and even Paris. It’s heartbreaking to think that his former home is now just a pile of rubble.

Officials are still trying to figure out what caused the fire, but they don’t think it was anything criminal. It’s just one of those unfortunate events.

Interestingly, the owners had been looking to demolish the building last year, but the province stepped in to designate it as a heritage site. Culture Minister Mathieu Lacombe had called it an important part of Quebec’s cultural heritage.

After the fire, Lacombe’s office said they’re in touch with local authorities and are keeping a close eye on the situation. They had been working with the owners to preserve the building and plan for its restoration.

The house, built in the 1950s, was Daudelin’s home and studio for about 50 years until he passed away in 2001. It was a unique space that reflected his artistic journey.

Last valued at over $2 million, the property is now just a twisted frame. It’s a real loss for the community and for art lovers everywhere.

Daudelin, who was born in Granby, Quebec, had a diverse career that included painting, sculpting, and even goldsmithing. His art can be found in many public spaces, making this loss even more significant.

He was honored as a grand officer of the Order of Quebec in 1998, which speaks volumes about his impact on the art scene.

This news is a tough blow, and it’s a reminder of how quickly things can change.