If one of your ancestors was a coureur des bois (woodsman) in New France, you may want to attend a historical and genealogy society’s meeting in Rougemont, Quebec and/or contact the lecturer to learn more.
On Tuesday, April 28, the Société d’histoire et de généalogie des Quatre lieux welcomes Marcel Pronovost who will speak about his ancestor, coureur des bois Mathieu Rouillard, and how the fur trade drove the economy in New France. He will also talk about the important role played by Rouillard’s wife, Jeanne Guillet, who raised seven children during her husband’s long absences.
Mr. Pronovost has devoted many years to researching church and notarial records to put together the daily life of his ancestors Rouillard and Guillet. He is the author of two books, Feu et lieu: la vie tumultueuse de Mathieu Rouillard et de Jeanne Guillet et Jeanne Guillet: la veuve Rouillard.
His book about Mathieu Rouillard and Jeanne Guillet is available in English, Hearth and Home. Information about the book is available on Mr. Pronovost’s bilingual website.
The lecture will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the Salle touristique, 11 chemin Marieville, Rougemont. Admission is free for society members and $5 for non-members.
