Our history, our museum
Learn about our origins, our rich heritage and the inspiring lives of Dorimène and Alphonse Desjardins.
Discover the birthplace of cooperation in this 15-minute virtual tour - This link will open in a new window. and learn about the origins of the very first cooperative group in North America. This video visit will offer you an in-depth look at the lives of Alphonse and Dorimène Desjardins, founders of Desjardins Group. Delve into their history, and witness it as though you were there.
The history of Desjardins Group is thoroughly intertwined with that of modern Quebec. For over 100 years now, the development of the Desjardins network and the diversification of its activities paralleled the social and economic boom of the province. Desjardins, one of the biggest financial groups in Canada today, has always been true to the philosophy of its founder: to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities.
Alphonse Desjardins, founder of caisses populaires, was born on November 4, 1854, in Lévis. Over the course of his lifetime he was in the military, a journalist, editor of Legislative Assembly of Québec proceedings and French stenographer at the House of Commons in Ottawa. Building on his personal experience in the area of association and local development in Lévis, he began seeking a financial solution to the socio-economic problems of his fellow citizens.
By championed the idea of cooperation to curb usury1, improve conditions for the working class and contribute to the economic development of French Canadians. After much research, he founded the first caisse populaire in Lévis on December 6, 1900.
He died on October 31, 1920, after personally helping found 163 caisses populaires in Quebec, 18 in Ontario and at least 9 in the United States, not to mention a few credit unions.
Learn more - Alphonse Desjardins (1854-1920)
1. The practice of lending money at unreasonably high interest rates
Alphonse Desjardins in 1913 (A.G. Pittaway, FCDQ)
Dorimène Desjardins was born on September 17, 1858, in Sorel. She married Alphonse Desjardins on September 2, 1879, in Sorel, and their union yielded 10 children. Like many women of her time, she lived in her husband's shadow. But each time the opportunity arose, she played an important role in the promotion of caisses populaires.
Between 1903 and 1906, in particular, she managed without title or salary the Caisse populaire de Lévis. After her husband's death in 1920, many called upon her to interpret his thoughts. This led Dorimène to acquire great moral authority, particularly with officers of Quebec City area caisses who consulted her on verification practices and the idea of a central caisse.
She died on June 14, 1932, in Lévis. She can in many ways be considered the co-founder of Desjardins caisses populaires.
Dorimène Desjardins in 1913 (A.G. Pittaway, FCDQ)
View an illustrated timeline of the historical milestones of the pioneers of the cooperative financial group, from its onset to today:
- Before the caisses (1844-1900)
- First steps (1900-1920)
- Consolidation and growth (1920-1944)
- Gaining strength (1944-1971)
- Innovation, growth and change (1971-2000)
- Renewal and expansion (2000-today)
The founder of Desjardins Group, Alphonse Desjardins was the figurehead of the fledgling caisse network until his death in 1920. He held no official title other than president of the very first caisse.
The presidents who followed left their mark on the history of Desjardins Group. Each worked in a different context with his or her own skills and experience.
Desjardins Group's logo has evolved throughout its history, all the while retaining some basic elements. In addition to official logos, Canada's leading financial cooperative has used a variety of images to represent the brand.
The history of Desjardins Group is a broad subject. If you'd like to know more, here is some suggested reading. You can also read an original text composed by Alphonse Desjardins.
You can direct questions about Alphonse and Dorimène Desjardins, the history of Desjardins caisses and Desjardins Group to Alphonse Desjardins Historical Society, which offers historical consultation services.
Follow us on Facebook
Client services
Visit the Maison Alphonse-Desjardins
Maison Alphonse-Desjardins
6, rue du Mont-Marie
Lévis, Québec G6V 1V9
Canada
Phone: 1-833-572-2088, ext. 5562507
See map - This link will open in a new window. Visiting hours and guided tour or school group reservations - This link will open in a new window. Special events and thematic tours - This link will open in a new window.
Visit the Desjardins Building
Desjardins Building
59, avenue Bégin
Lévis, Québec G6V 4C3
Canada
Phone: 1-833-572-2088, ext. 5562507
See map - This link will open in a new window. Visiting hours and guided tour or school group reservations - This link will open in a new window.
