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Hampstead’s establishment is attributed to eight visionary businessmen who structured the development of the territory. Sir Herbert Holt, engineer and first president of the Hampstead Land and Construction Company, played a central role. The Town was officially incorporated on February 19, 1914, following the adoption of Bill 59 by the Québec Legislature.
The first Council meeting took place on April 7, 1914, under founding Mayor James Baillie. Early efforts focused on establishing essential infrastructure, including water and sewer systems.
Despite annexation attempts in 1916 and 1924, Hampstead maintained its municipal independence. By the 1920s, strict building regulations and the creation of an architectural advisory committee reflected a strong commitment to preserving the Town’s distinctive character.
Beginning in the 1930s, Hampstead experienced steady growth. The introduction of public transportation and carefully regulated residential development allowed expansion while maintaining planning integrity and community standards.
Throughout the twentieth century, Hampstead’s population evolved significantly, reflecting broader demographic changes across the Montréal region. Cultural and institutional diversity now form an integral part of the Town’s identity and vitality.
Built in 1916 by James Alexander Baillie, the current Town Hall is one of the earliest residences constructed in Hampstead. Donated to the Town in 1942, it has since served as the seat of municipal administration and remains an important heritage landmark.
Since 1978, Hampstead has been twinned with Kiryat Shemonah in northern Israel, symbolizing enduring cultural and community ties based on resilience and solidarity.
Since its founding, Hampstead has been led by several mayors who contributed to its institutional stability and development. Jeremy Levi currently serves as Mayor.
| Mayor | From – To |
| James BAILLIE | 1914 – 1923 |
| James A. BAILLIE | 1924 – 1927 |
| William S. LIGHTHALL | 1928 – 1929 |
| James A. BAILLIE | 1930 – 1931 |
| Archibald F. BYERS | 1932 – 1934 |
| Vincent E. SCULLY | 1935 |
| Harland G. PARSONS | 1936 – 1947 |
| Lyman I. PLAYFAIR | 1948 – 1964 |
| Stuart M. FINLAYSON | 1964 – 1974 |
| Irving. L. ADESSKY | 1974 – 2001 |
| William STEINBERG | 2006 – 2021 |
| Jeremy Levi | 2022 – Present |
Following amendments to the Cultural Heritage Act, the Town participated in a pilot project in the summer of 2022, coordinated by the City of Montréal, aimed at inventorying buildings constructed before 1940 that present heritage value.
Surveys were conducted primarily from public streets, in accordance with provincial guidelines.
