Author: The Record
Published October 10, 2024

Photo by Matthew McCully
The front facade of the William Armoury, pictured on Oct. 10, 2024, will be saved as part of a project to preserve the heritage value of the 1840 structure, while the deteriorating sections behind will be demolished.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sherbrooke’s historical William Armoury will be partially demolished to make way for new developments, but the front section of the building, which once served as the city’s courthouse, will be preserved due to its significant heritage value. Brigadier-general Jean-Luc Bombardier (retired) and Sherbrooke History Museum Director David Lacoste, both long-standing advocates for the protection of the city’s military heritage, provided insight into this development during recent interviews.

“The exterior of the William Street Armoury, particularly the courthouse facade, will remain,” Bombardier explained. “But the sections behind, which are in a severe state of disrepair, will be demolished and rebuilt.” This decision comes as a relief to preservation advocates, although concerns remain about the lengthy timeline. Bombardier expressed his personal satisfaction with the plans but noted, “We’re looking at delays beyond 2030, and with elections coming up, there’s always a chance plans could shift depending on the government.”

Lacoste, who has been involved in meetings on the issue with the Department of National Defence for over two years, emphasized the historical significance of the building. “The William Armoury is one of Sherbrooke’s oldest institutional buildings, originally built as a courthouse in 1840,” he explained. “It served that role until 1904 before being repurposed by the Canadian militia.” He highlighted the importance of preserving the front facade, saying it stands as a reminder of the building’s judicial and military past.

While the preservation of the sister Belvédère Armoury is also moving forward with full rehabilitation planned, Bombardier expressed optimism but urged caution, remarking, “I won’t truly believe it until we have our feet in the new facilities.”

Both Lacoste and Bombardier underscored the vital role these buildings play in Sherbrooke’s military history. With over 115 years of continuous military presence at the William Armoury, the site is intertwined with the city’s identity, both judicially and militarily. “These buildings have been a part of our community for generations,” Lacoste reflected. “It’s important that we maintain that connection for the future.”

Renovations on the William and Belvédère Armouries are expected to begin in the coming years, with a third new armoury to be constructed downtown to accommodate the growing needs of Sherbrooke’s military regiments. However, the ongoing process is not without its critics. Bombardier, reflecting a common sentiment, said, “The temporary facilities on Woodward Street aren’t enough. Our reserve units deserve installations that meet their current and future needs.”

As Sherbrooke looks to balance preservation with modernization, the future of these historic military sites remains in the hands of federal authorities, with Minister of National Defence Bill Blair expected to approve the project’s next phase by winter 2024.

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