Jean-Baptiste Bédard (carpenter)

Jean-Baptiste Bédard (born c. 1764, died October 2, 1812) was a carpenter prominent in Lower Canada (present-day Quebec). He is primarily known for his involvement in the construction of significant buildings in Montreal during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Bédard worked as a master carpenter and contractor. His projects included residential homes, commercial buildings, and religious structures. While specific details about his training are scarce, evidence suggests he was a highly skilled artisan working during a period of architectural transition, blending traditional French Canadian styles with emerging British influences.

His contribution is significant because it represents the continued development of Quebec architecture in the post-conquest era, reflecting both the preservation of local craft traditions and the adoption of new architectural trends. He is considered one of many lesser-known but important contributors to the physical landscape of early Montreal.

Bédard's death in 1812 marked the end of his active career. Records concerning his family and personal life remain incomplete, making a comprehensive biographical account challenging. Further archival research may shed more light on his work and legacy.