Several visitors to the museum had this question stuck in their minds: Did the Augustinians have nursing degrees or diplomas? Until the beginning of the 20th century, the Augustinians, responsible for taking care of people who were ill, trained among themselves through mimicry-based learning—by copying what their elders showed them. The medical revolution near the end of the 19th century caused hospital requirements to increase, so the Augustinians had to go to school!
A Carnavalesque Treasure from the Archives
Every month, Le Monastère’s Museum Reserve and Archives Centre teams select an object from the Augustinian community’s rich tangible heritage. Featured this month: a lithography which shows Quebec Winter Carnival festivalgoers in the late 19th century. A carnavalesque treasure from our archives!
Find of the Month – Travel to Africa
Every month, an object from the heritage bequest by the Augustinian community is selected by the museum storage facility and archives center teams. Featured this month: a travel letter.
The Beginnings of a Monastic Separation
Did you know that in the beginning, the sisters of the Hôpital général de Québec monastery were totally dependent on the Hôtel-Dieu de Québec community? The Hôpital général only became a distinct and independent entity in May 1701, eight years after the arrival of the Augustinians. Archivist Audrey Julien retraces the story behind the separation.
Cultivating Wellness Through Art
“Art is good for you” has been a popular saying over the past few years. It’s concise, but meaningful: art truly has the power to humanize, question, soothe, and touch. “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life,” said Pablo Picasso. So why deprive yourself?
A lottery as a source of financing
In July 2019, Le Monastère des Augustines launched its first Loto-répits (Respite Lottery) to raise funds for its respite care program benefitting caregivers. The prize for this first edition? 15 nights in an authentic room at Le Monastère—a $3,175 value! Profits will help provide caregivers with stays and renewal activities tailored to their needs. Turning to a lottery as a funding activity may seem surprising, but it’s a relatively old practice. The Augustinian Sisters have used it in the past, notably in 1871 to support the foundation of the Hôtel-Dieu du Sacré-Coeur in Québec. A more recent example is linked to Maison Catherine de Longpré, a private hospice co-founded by the Saint-Georges Augustinian Sisters. Here’s a look at the history of the organization, and how lotteries pertain to its foundation and running.
A Hospital to Serve an Entire Region: The Hôtel-Dieu de Gaspé
When it’s time to travel, some people decide to explore Quebec and the wonderful scenery of its different regions. You don’t need to travel far for an adventure, whether it’s with your significant other, friends, or entire family. Gaspésie is always a popular destination because of its various tourist attractions, enchanting views, and beautiful nature, which is perfect for outdoor activities.
Find of the Month – Perpetual Calendar
Every month, an object from the heritage bequest by the Augustinian community is selected by the museum storage facility and archives center teams. Featured this month: a perpetual calendar
Meditative Handpan Concert
Did you know that, as part of its program, Le Monastère des Augustines offers handpan concerts? The sounds played by Francis Leclerc are sure to create a unique moment of deep relaxation.
Hôpital général de Québec: Stabilizing a Perimeter from the Past
In honour of Archeology Month 2019, Le Monastère des Augustines would like to introduce you to a construction site which is the object of heightened archeological vigilance: the Hôpital général de Québec.