On September 6, 2025, the Montreal Irish Monument hosted Le Typhus and the Irish Famine: Memorial, Memory, and the Science of Remembrance at the historic Bonsecours Chapel Vault. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the over 60 people who attended, the numerous volunteers and to our panel of experts who gave thoughtful, moving presentations on the tragedy of the Great Famine of 1847 in Montreal. 

Special Thanks 

A very special thank you to our panelists: Dr. Mark McGowan (video), Dr. Simon Jolivet, Tahieròn:iohte Dan David (video), Michael McBane, Dr. Gavin Foster, Dr. Marine Puech (video), Dr. Martin Perron (video), and Scott Phelan. 

A Unique Moment in History 

This event coincided with a historic transition: the removal of François-Xavier Hamel’s painting Le Typhus from the chapel ceiling for restoration. This was one of the last opportunities to see the painting in its original setting. The evening included a bilingual presentation, expert panel discussion, reflections on archaeology, DNA, and history tied to the Irish Famine, followed by a wine and cheese reception. 

Continuing the Commemoration 

The commemoration continued Sunday, September 7, at 4:00 p.m. in the Bonsecours Chapel, with a special mass in honour of the victims, survivors, and helpers of the 1847 Great Hunger. The commemorative Mass was celebrated by Father Guy Chapdelaine, . 

The ceremony was made even more memorable by the moving music of Esmé Cavanaugh and her band Gráinne, featuring Ella Partington on fiddle and Lily Maclean on harmonium. 

Gratitude to Our Supporters 

We gratefully acknowledge the financial contribution of QAHN and of Canadian Heritage under the SHARE / PARTAGE PATRIMOINE program toward the Irish Famine DNA Project, Phase 1. We also thank all of our partners, sponsors, and community members for helping to ensure this important history is preserved and remembered. 

Acknowledgment

We gratefully acknowledge the financial contribution of QAHN and ofCanadian Heritage under the SHARE / PARTAGE PATRIMOINE programtowards the Irish Famine DNA Project, Phase 1.