author
Sir J. M. (James MacPherson) Le Moine
1825–1912
A lively guide to old Quebec, he wrote across history, folklore, travel, and nature with the eye of both a storyteller and a careful observer. His books helped preserve the character of 19th-century French Canada for later generations.
1 Audiobook
Picturesque Quebec : a sequel to Quebec past and present
by Sir J. M. (James MacPherson) Le Moine
About the author
Born in Quebec City in 1825, James MacPherson Le Moine became a lawyer, civil servant, and prolific Canadian writer whose work ranged from local history and memoir to natural history and travel. Educated at the Petit Séminaire de Québec and called to the bar in 1850, he practised law for several years before moving into public service.
Le Moine wrote extensively in both English and French about Quebec's past and present. He is especially remembered for books that captured the landscape, traditions, and everyday life of Quebec, and for his interest in birds and the natural world. His writing often blended research with personal observation, making it informative but also warm and readable.
He was deeply involved in the Literary and Historical Society of Quebec, serving as president more than once and supporting its museum work. Knighted in 1897, he remained an important cultural figure in Quebec letters until his death in 1912.