From 1898 to 1910 the same corresponding increase of growth was marked.
Another epoch started with the later date on the advent of the Board of Control.
CIVIC IMPROVEMENT UNDER THE “BOARD OF CONTROL”
Among some of the outstanding civic works undertaken under the control régime may be chronicled the following, as recorded in the official reports:
THE MEURLING REFUGE
In 1911, Mr. Gustave Meurling died at Menton, France, bequeating all his property to the City of Montreal.
Following the correspondence between the late Mr. Meurling’s attorneys and Doctor J.J. Guerin, Mayor at the time, the Consulting City Attorney was instructed to take the necessary means to put the City in possession of the bequest.
To carry out the wishes of this generous benefactor, the Commissioners decided to build a refuge for the poor and homeless, giving it his name.
On the 29th of July, 1912, a report was made to Council to purchase a property on Champ de Mars Street and to erect thereon a refuge to be known as “The Meurling Municipal Refuge.” This report was adopted by the Council on the 1st of August, 1912. An architect was engaged to prepare the plans and specifications and the refuge was in full operation in March, 1914. It is thoroughly equipped with the most modern appliances.
MUNICIPAL ARCHIVES