Eau courante, toilettes à eau et dernières latrines à Montréal, 1856-1915

Abstract

Access to running water in apartments and the transition from privies to water closets transformed living conditions. This study establishes the chronology of events in Montreal. In 1871, about 70% of families had access to running water. By 1891, this rate was up to 95%, moving toward full access. Three periods outline the history of water closets (WCs): that of Montreal’s wealthiest, from 1856 to 1886; that of a remarkable massive transition, from 1887 to 1895, affecting the vast majority of working families; and, lastly, that of WC availability to the poorest at the onset of the 20^th century when a by-law provided the final push in 1901.