Saint-Eustache is a timid, small town with a scarred personality located two-bridges away from Montreal on the north shore. It was founded in 1770.  The town was the center of an important conflict in December 1837 (St. Eustache Battle) during which a fire completely destroyed the city except for the façade of the church.

Despite this tragic event, the town revived and the city added some small squares with benches along  the main street. I really believe that the city is making good efforts in making this place an enjoyable, nice place to visit.

Saint-Eustache is next to the Miles-Iles River which freezes during the cold winter months allowing skating on the river.

Church of Saint-Eustache

The original building was constructed in the early 1780’s and the church was severely damaged by the 1837 fire during the now named St.Eustache Battle. During the conflict, the patriots took refuge in the church but it was set on fire and 70 patriots were killed against only three soldiers on the government side.

Only the scarred façade of the church survived the disaster and has been integrated into the current 1841 building.

This Roman Catholic Church was designated as a Canadian historical site in 2014.

Promenade Paul-Sauve

The promenade Paul-Sauve is behind the church and takes you along the river. 

If you have young children, there is a playground behind the church.

Microbrasserie Blanche et Noire

Quebec is known for its local microbrewers.  This is one of them. If you want to taste a beer, it’s a place to stop by in Saint-Eustache.

Rue Saint-Eustache

Right in the front of the church, the street which holds the same name as the city and the church, leads you to historical sites:

• Moulin Legare (mill)
• Globensky manor

The city did make some improvement to welcome visitors to the region. We recommend walking the street to appreciate this place.  Murals along the way are a colourful way to explore the neighbourhood.

Fresques du Vieux-Saint-Eustache (Murals)

Colorful representation of the life in Saint-Eustache back in the days!

If you are going to St-Eustache to visit the mill, the Globensky Manor, the Church or walk by the water, take the time to walk along St-Eustache Street just across from the church.

While the description is only in French, you can understand the representation. It represents: Hommage aux patriotes (In honour of the patriots), le magasin general E. Lahaie (General store), des seigneurs (Lords), le marché de St-Eustache (the market), Auberge Mitchell (an inn) and des patriotes (patriots).

The wall art is colourful and we could not resist taking pictures of all of them.

It is not a long walk from the church and there are some rest areas if you need them.

This street leads you to the historical mill and Globensky Manor.

Moulin Legare

Historic place still in function – that is impressive!

On St-Eustache Street you can find a mill still in use.

Built in 1762, the construction of the mill attracted family in this neighborhood.

If I understood correctly, it is the oldest mill activated by water still in use in North America. The mill is recognized by the Canadian government and has a historical site.

You can purchase some flour in the small boutique and enjoy a presentation on the milling process (I’m unsure if it is offered in English).

We combined our visit with the Globenski manor just in front of the mill. A river runs just behind the mill and if you cross the small bridge, it leads you to a walking path and close to the church via the cemetery.

Maison de la Culture et du Patrimoine (Manor Globenski)

Visit only if you speak French!

In front of the mill and a walking distance from the church, the Globensky Manor surely stands out with its architecture in this town.

While the original building was erected in 1861, some unfortunate events have changed the original home.

Yes, it was the residence of Mr. Globensky. In 1961, the city acquired this nice building to make it the City Hall until 1986.

Today, it hosts a permanent exhibition of the 1837 events that occurred in St-Eustache (information only in French) and also presents temporary exhibitions.

The access was free when we were there but I would not recommend paying if you do not speak French.

Maison Gentile

This house was built in 1835 and was a strategic home during the St.Eustache Battle.