| In the middle of the 19th century, Saint-Louis Street was the place where the British colonial elite lived. One of the houses on this street, built by the Racey family, is now called Le Clos Saint-Louis. |
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Built respectively in 1844 and 1854, the two buildings that make up the hotel are characteristic of the urban expansion of the day. The mid 19th century's neoclassical style architecture is influenced by both a colonial and local flavour.
Of Scottish descent, Dr. John Racey Senior - “Dear Papa”, as he was affectionately called by his wife Susanna Wise - was born in Quebec in 1809. An intelligent, hard working and generous man, he studied medicine in Montreal, then returned to Quebec City and built 69 Saint-Louis in 1844. Susanna and John had 5 children.
Dr. Racey died during the typhus epidemic of 1849 after having treated between 500 and 600 patients. To immortalize the memory of her dear husband, Susanna wrote a moving letter to her children. This letter is on display today in the large lounge of the hotel.
John Racey Jr. also became a doctor and in 1852 engaged the renowned architects Stanley and Dunlevy to build 71 Saint-Louis Street. Both buildings were then joined together. Originally the buildings were family homes but were then converted into a boarding house in the 1950's and subsequently into a small hotel in 1968.
In 1987, the present owner, Mrs Ghislaine Donais, acquired both buildings to fulfill a cherished and enduring dream of owning a Victorian luxury town house hotel in Old Quebec. Since day one, her mission has been to create a unique experience specifically geared toward her guests’ accommodation desires. It has been her primary vision and passion ever since.
During the last ten years, the hotel has been completely restored. Today the 4-star rated Hotel Le Clos Saint-Louis is a must see for all travelers seeking the authenticity of Quebec City. Whether it’s a short break in the city, a weekend of shopping, a business trip, or an evening at the theatre, staying at Le Clos Saint-Louis is an enchanting experience. This grand town house is by and large the most romantic Victorian hotel in Quebec City. |
