In 1647, the city bought a house right on this street-not for parties, but for a purpose. The Saint-Joseph Foundation was set up here, aiming to help women in trouble, especially those trying to escape lives they didn’t choose as prostitutes. Imagine them entering through what was once called the “street of dishonor” (how’s that for welcoming?) and leaving along the “street of the repentant.” Now, just to keep things confusing, “street of dishonor” has changed its name to mean the exact opposite!
Life inside wasn’t easy. The women had their hair cut off-because people believed hair was the devil’s favorite rope for temptation. It sounds old-fashioned now, but for many women this place was their chance at a new beginning, a fresh start. Picture anxious footsteps, hushed voices, and, after a tough time, a hopeful walk down the street, heading into a very different future.
So as you stroll along Refuge Street, remember: these stones have seen stories of sadness and hope, and if these walls could talk, they’d probably start with, “You think *your* bad hair day is rough!”
