Spotlight on Heroines
The Women of Notre Dame: Influential Female Figures of the Basilica
Notre-Dame Basilica is often celebrated for its architectural magnificence and the prominent male figures who shaped its history. Yet many women also played decisive roles. From religious founders to benefactors to dedicated volunteers, here are the stories of five women whose contributions deserve equal recognition.
Marguerite Bourgeoys (1620–1700)
Founder of the Congregation of Notre-Dame, Marguerite Bourgeoys is a key figure. Although she passed away before the current basilica was built, she established the first Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours Chapel in Montreal. Her educational and spiritual legacy remains deeply rooted in local history and is symbolically tied to Notre-Dame Basilica, located in a neighbourhood she once knew.
Jeanne Mance (1606–1673)
A pioneer of colonial Montreal, Jeanne Mance also holds symbolic importance. Founder of the Hôtel-Dieu de Montréal, one of the first hospitals in North America, her dedication to the vulnerable was one of her great contributions. She was also directly involved in establishing a stable community. Her actions laid the groundwork for later parish life, ultimately leading to the construction of what would become Notre-Dame Basilica.
Marguerite d’Youville (1701–1771)
Founder of the Sisters of Charity of Montreal (the “Grey Nuns”), Marguerite d’Youville was the first Canadian to be canonized. Her work with the poor and the sick profoundly shaped the social and religious fabric of the city. Her relics, preserved in the basilica, bear witness to her central role in the history of Christian charity in Quebec. The basilica indeed houses relics of this saint who left a lasting mark on the province’s history.
Élise Fréchette (active in the 1880s)
Wife of renowned sculptor Louis-Philippe Hébert, Élise Fréchette played an often-overlooked role in the development and support of her husband’s work. Her careful management and discreet guidance were essential to the creation of the famous sculptures that still adorn the interior of Notre-Dame Basilica today.
Marie-Claire Daveluy (1880–1968)
A Montreal writer and historian, Marie-Claire Daveluy helped preserve the basilica’s historical memory through her research and publications. Her writings documented the history of the site, ensuring that future generations could fully understand the historical and cultural significance of Notre-Dame Basilica over time.
Thérèse Goyette (active 1980s–2000s)
More recently, Thérèse Goyette’s involvement as volunteer coordinator for over 20 years helped keep the basilica open and accessible to thousands of visitors each year. Her dedication to welcoming and guiding guests deeply shaped the culture of hospitality at the site.
These women, each in their own way, helped influenced the history, identity, and reputation of Notre-Dame Basilica. They deserve their rightful place in our collective memory.
