Our Mission
The mission of the Fondation François-Lamy is to preserve and promote the places of memory tied to the Orléans Island roots, through the major chapters of the island’s history—from past to present—and the lives of its founding families.
Our History
The Fondation François-Lamy was established in 1978 by Georges-Henri Blouin, Pascal Poulin, and Sainte-Famille’s parish priest Bertrand Fournier. Its initial goal was to preserve and promote the religious heritage of Sainte-Famille parish. In 1985, it became a non-profit organization and began offering public access to the interior of the Sainte-Famille church—a historic building constructed in 1749—during the summer season.
Over time, the Foundation’s mission evolved, and its responsibilities continued to grow. In 1997, the Foundation acquired the Maison Drouin with the intent of opening it to the public. After a long process, the Maison Drouin was designated a heritage building by Québec’s Ministry of Culture and Communications in 2010 and was fully restored in 2013. Since then, it has held official museum status from the Ministry, reflecting the quality of its programming, conservation efforts, and heritage interpretation.
In 1998, the Foundation also acquired the former rectory of Sainte-Famille, which became the Maison de nos Aïeux—a space dedicated to the interpretation of the history of Île d’Orléans and its founding families. This site presents both permanent and temporary exhibitions and is also recognized as a professional museum by the Ministry of Culture.
The Maison de nos Aïeux has also developed into a thriving genealogy resource center. Thanks to its continually improving research tools, personalized visitor services, and support from specialized partners, it is now a key reference point for those searching for their Orléans Island roots—both locally and internationally.
In 2001, the Foundation continued to expand by establishing the Parc-des-Ancêtres, a place for relaxation, remembrance, and gathering in the heart of Sainte-Famille village.
Guided by its mission to preserve and share history, the Foundation continues to modernize its museum practices and public services to help bring the living history of Île d’Orléans to light.
