At first when Phillips Square was built, between 1842 and 1844, it was surrounded by houses. Over time the square attracted major businesses and companies such as Birks jewelers, Morgan’s department store and the Hudson’s Bay Company. Several hundred people would come to work in these new establishments that were changing the economy of Montreal forever. Although the prestige that it once had has faded, today, Phillips Square remains an important economic center in Montreal
Source: McCord Museum
