The museum and the architecture of its buildings

Did you know that the museum buildings are classified by the Ministry of Culture and Communications? In fact, it is the entire site that is classified, but the buildings are part of the classified elements. Provincial classification proves the uniqueness and importance of Matamajaw on a Quebec scale.
The museum buildings stand out in Causapscal with their original architecture. Known as American vernacular, this architectural style originating from the United States is characterized by several elements. Firstly, the typical building has a rectangular floor plan. The roof has two slopes and originally does not have dormer windows (though they can be added over the years). The most commonly used traditional cladding is usually metal, but the vernacular notion is to use materials available in the area. That's why cedar shingles are used in Matamajaw.

The structure of the American vernacular house is always made of wood (half-timbered, piece by piece, timber on timber, etc.). Clapboard siding covers these structures. Generally, the openings of the American vernacular house have a regular and rigorous layout. In this perspective, the door is usually located in the center of the facade and is framed by windows. These windows are often arranged vertically, from one level to another. It is easy to see that American vernacular buildings also feature a wide variety of decorative components. Naturally, corner boards and lintels are among the most common elements. In Matamajaw, we can see lace, those small white triangles found at the roof ridges.

With these American vernacular buildings, Matamajaw presents a great architectural unity. The construction techniques, volumes, integration of masses, choice of materials, colors, and decorative elements all contribute to its harmony.

(photo description: Matamajaw circa 1940-1960. From left to right: the main pavilion and its annex, one of the two snow sheds, and the "office," formerly used as a stable.)