On Thursday, January 30, 2020 we marked the 100th anniversary of the opening of our beautiful building with a special event which attracted a capacity audience of 130 people.
Attendees included City of Westmount Councillors Kathleen Kez and Jeff Shamie as well as leaders of partner groups and many other enthusiastic supporters.
Special guests were Dr. John Burgess and Lynn Burgess who have a family connection to William Rutherford, the president of our organization when the building was planned, constructed and opened. William Rutherford’s granddaughter Andrea Rutherford Burgess, now deceased, was Dr. Burgess’ wife and Lynn Burgess’ mother. Andrea Rutherford Burgess served as our president in the late 1990s.
Nancy Dunton gave a tremendous account of the history of our building and its value to the community. She commented on how architectural properties enhance visitors’ enjoyment — particularly the emphasis on light.
Click here to see a splendid 1921 booklet, referred to in the talk, about the history of our organization, then known as the Mechanics’ Institute of Montreal, and the “new” building.
Architect Nathan Bonneville showed illustrations of the plan for the elevator and new wheelchair entrance, now under construction and due to be completed by April 30, 2020.
For Montreal Gazette columnist Bill Brownstein’s take on our centenary, go here.
Click here to see CTV Montreal coverage of our 100th anniversary event.
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