Saint-Jacques Church

Historical Value

Église Saint-Jacques is of historical value due to its architecture, historical associations and importance in defining the character of the village of Embrun. The highly visible location at a prominent corner makes it the most distinctive feature of the surrounding streetscape and village.

Built in 1891, the present church is the fourth to be built on the property since 1856.

The Catholic Church played a key role in the founding of the village of Embrun and the francophone community in Eastern Ontario.

The Bells

The church has five bells, blessed in memory of a locally recognized saint or a person from the history of Embrun:

1. François-Xavier Séguin, Théophile Bruyère, and Simon Séguin, founding settlers
2. Archbishop Joseph Onésime Routhier
3. Saint-Jacques
4. Father Forget
5. Mr. Maurel, Mr. Agnel, Mr. Fancour, Mr. Guay, Mr. Guillaume and Mr. Phillion, the first six priests of Embrun

The bells were ordered from Maison Paccard in France.

Neo-Baroque Architecture

The neo-baroque style building has retained its architectural integrity and is a defining feature of the village. Église Saint-Jacques was designed by architect L.Z. Gauthier and Roy of Montreal in the neo-baroque style to contrast against the neo-gothic style common to Anglican and Presbyterian denominations. L.Z. Gauthier also designed repairs in 1900-1902 (at which time the interior columns were installed) and the church interior in 1906.

Adorning the interior is the ‘stations of the cross’ which is a series of 14 original oil paintings purchased in France in
1892. The presbytery addition was built in 1946-1947, and although of distinctly different ‘modern’ style, is sympathetic to the church in use of materials and in its location, which helps form an east courtyard. It is compatible, subordinate and of its own time.

Other than some renovations to the interior in the 1960s, the heritage elements are largely intact with high integrity.

Submit a Plaque Suggestion

If you know of a person, place, event or object that you think may be of historical significance to the Township of Russell, please let us know!

Disclaimer

The plaque is intended for commemorative purposes and has no legal implications. It is not a designation under the Ontario Heritage Act.