Description of Historic Place

Building 7, also known as Memorial Building, forms part of a complex of three structures, which includes a chapel and a workshop, situated near the parade ground of the Quebec Citadel National Historic Site of Canada. They are attached by a 19th century protective wall. Building 7 is a small, rectangular, one-storey masonry building with a pyramidal stone roof and a row of windows on all four elevations. Its principal façade is distinguished by a modern porchway. The designation is confined to the footprint of the building.

Heritage Value

Building 7 is a Classified Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental value.

Historical Value
As the former Cooperage, Building 7 is one of the best examples associated with the final phase of construction of the Citadel. Built to provide space in which to make barrels to store gunpowder, the small structure contributed indirectly to the defence of the fortress. Renovated as the Memorial Building in 1964, Building 7 is dedicated to the memory of members of the Royal 22nd Regiment who died in battle in one of the three wars in which the regiment took part. It is also where former Governor General of Canada, Georges Vanier is buried. The Memorial Building was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1964.

Architectural Value
Building 7 is a very good example of a 19th century British military defence building. It is also valued for its commemorative role at the Citadel, which is expressed in the building by its modern overlay. It displays very good craftsmanship in its solid masonry walls.

The Environmental Value
As part of a complex of three structures, Building 7 is compatible with the historical military character of the site. Grouped with its neighbouring structures, there is a contemplative atmosphere largely created by the chapel and often regarded as a sacred site. Located next to the parade ground, the Memorial Building, is known by sight to visitors and the regimental war memorial is well known to all ranks of the Royal 22nd Regiment stationed in the Citadel since 1964.

Sources: Rhona Godspeed, The Citadel, Québec, Québec, Federal Heritage Building Report 88-161; Memorial Building, Building No. 7, The Citadel, Québec, Québec, Heritage Character Statement, 88-161.

Character-Defining Elements

The character-defining elements of Building 7 should be respected.

Its 19th century military design, combined with 20th century modern style and materials such as:
-its small, rectangular, one-storey building with a pyramidal roof and solid masonry walls with irregular courses;
-its roof construction of a concrete shell faced with smooth stones laid so as to create horizontal bands;
-its rows of small square windows just beneath the eaves;
-its steel and glass porch and three steps leading up to the entrance of the building.

The manner in which Building 7 is compatible with the defensive historical military character of its fort setting located at the Québec Citadel.