Gatherings 1954 to 2019
Date: September, 14, 2019
Place: Québec, Qc, Canada (Hôtel Delta)
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
Fifty descendants of the ancestors Laurent, Pierre and Jean were present at this meeting of the ALA (Association of The Levasseur of America). Following the registration of the participants, the annual meeting was held at which reports were presented by the President, the genealogist, the treasurer, the webmaster, the head of the Facebook, and the Newsletter committee. The reports are available on the ALA (www.levasseur.org
Jean-Pierre Levasseur and Gilles Carmel presented the new website, which was greatly appreciated by the participants. We encourage you to visit the site to see how user-friendly it is and how it has been improved.
In the afternoon, historian and Professor Jean-Marie Lebel gave a lecture entitled “Life in Quebec City at the time of the ancestors Jean, Pierre and Laurent Levasseur”. Mr. Lebel started by handing us a piece of paper. This sheet served as a guide to make us understand the political, economic and religious situation of Quebec, from the arrival of the Levasseur in 1651 until 1759. This sheet presented a map of the city in 1709, drawings of the buildings at the time and portraits of illustrious people such as bishops, governors, natives, kings of that period of time. The speaker mentioned that Jean and Pierre Levasseur were master carpenters. Many of their descendants worked in the same profession. The third and fourth generations of Levasseurs were sculptors. This conference was very enriching and educational. Professor Lebel is an unparalleled storyteller.
Then, Heidi Levasseur, who plans to swim across the Atlantic from Senegal to Brazil, dazzled us with her presentation of the work required to undertake such a feat. Here’s what can be read about her on her website.”
Quebec’s Heidi Levasseur continues to prepare for her swim across the Atlantic Ocean. The challenge she has set for herself is colossal. She will attempt to swim from Dakar in Senegal to the city of Recife, Brazil. It is a journey of 3000 kilometers, the equivalent of the Quebec- Miami drive.”
The meeting ended at approximately 5:30 a.m. More than half of the participants gathered for a family dinner at the restaurant, delighted with their day at the gathering.
Date : August, 16 et 17, 2017
Place: Québec (Campus Notre-Dame-de-Foy)
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
The Levasseur Association of America held a gathering on Saturday, September 2nd, 2017, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Notre-Dame-de-Foy Campus, André-Coindre Pavillon, 5030, rue Clément-Lockquell, Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, near Québec City. All of Jean, Pierre and Laurent Levasseur descendants were invited to this gathering, as well as the Carmel, Borgias, Vasseur and Vassar descendants.
The first agenda item was the general assembly of the Association. Two presentations followed:
“Tabernacles Created by the Levasseur Sculptors: a Touring Itinerary”
Date: 2014
Place: Trois-Rivières (Hôtel Delta)
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
Report and photos
The gathering of the Levasseur in Trois-Rivières enabled us to learn about the ancestor Denis -Joseph and his descendants of which many of our members are descendants. Jean-Marie Levasseur painted us a portrait of this builder, contractor and businessman whose wife Charlotte Couturier was a horticulturist, innkeeper and cared for small animals. In 1741 Denis-Joseph settled south of Notre-Dame Street in the front of the current Delta, Hotel in an area called La Fosse.
The King’s daughters:
Béatrice Levasseur was chosen last year (2013) to represent one of the King’s daughters during a tour in France, in Normandy and Brittany, to commemorate the 350th anniversary of the arrival of the first 36 King’s daughters in New-France. False rumors were made about these girls identifying them as women of leisure. However, it definitely was not the case. Most of them were orphaned and destitute. The King of France Louis XIV took them under his protection and sent them to New – France to find a husband and help populate the new colony. It is estimated that there were 764 King’s daughters. They were of varied social origins. Some were educated others illiterate, some were from wealthy families other had common family background and unknown origin, however, they were all valiant workers.
Huguette Levasseur’s research project about the King’s daughters indicates that one of them bore the name Levasseur. She was Jeanne Levasseur. Our first Levasseur ancestors, Jean, Pierre and Laurent were already married when the King’s daughters arrived in Quebec. However, Pierre Levasseur’s son, Pierre, married Anne Mesnage, daughter of Pierre Mesnage and Anne Leblanc who was one of the King’s daughters. She was the grandmother of 16 Levasseurs. Huguette spoke to us about the first Levasseurs who came to Quebec City and how they contributed to the development of upper and lower town, how they lived and she informed us about the different places where they lived.
The newcomers had to know how to build, cultivate, garden, farm, raise families. They had to work hard to succeed.
Date: September 2012
Place: Rimouski, Québec (Centre communautaire Arthur-Buies)
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
We had an over-optimistic goal of attracting 100 participants at the regional gathering in Rimouski on September 1, 2012. Not only did we reach this objective but surpassed it.
All conditions were ideal to make this gathering a success: great temperature, enthusiastic participants from eastern Canada and the United States, a festive atmosphere due to the Festi-Jazz concerts being held at the same time, a suitable room and tremendous logistic and computer support from Regis Levasseur of Mont-Joli.
The volunteers and board members met early Saturday morning in order to prepare and welcome the Levasseurs members and their families to the gathering that began shortly after noon.
At 1:30 after welcoming remarks by Raymond Levasseur, our president Roger Levasseur expressed his welcome on a pre-recorded video shown on a large screen.
Gilles Carmel, our vice president presented an overview of the Association that was created more than 20 years ago by our now deceased friend Vincent Levasseur.
Our host, Raymond Levasseur, informed us about the Levasseurs who settled in various localities in Eastern Quebec frequently adding interesting anecdotes about the life of these pioneers and their family members. It is possible that this conference on «The Levasseurs who settled in Eastern Québec» may be published in a future issue of the Newsletter.
Prior to the visit of the Genealogy Society and Archives of Rimouski a group photo was taken of all the participants. The photo taken outdoors on a beautiful sunny day can be seen in this publication.
Upon their return the participants heard two presentations. One was on the genealogical dictionaries of Pierre and Laurent Levasseur. Participants were shown and given an explanation on how to use the dictionaries. Huguette provided explanations enabling the reader to quickly find the relationship between the parties listed in these dictionaries. The second presentation was about the impact of new technologies in the field of communication enabling the sharing of information between family associations like ours and their members.
In addition to these activities, there were discussions about the collection and the consulting of genealogical data by our genealogist Joceline Levasseur. Also, discussions were made on the cataloguing of ancient photos and official documents and the presentation of various promotional products.
An excellent dinner was served and many door prizes were offered prior to participants saying: «good by and until the next time we meet».
We say thank you and express our and gratitude to the many volunteers who, due to their hard work and generosity, made this gathering possible and a great success. Again, Thank you.
If you receive an on-line version of this Newsletter you will find many links that will bring you to complimentary data and information such as photos and videos. By the time you receive this information, the Association’s Blog will have been updated with additional photos and videos.
Jean-Pierre Levasseur (250)
Date: August 2012
Place: Sherbroohe , Québec (Centre communautaire Arthur-Buies)
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique2011 Sherbrooke
The temperature was ideal and the Levasseurs were there! This first gathering in the Eastern townships was very successful.
Levasseurs from New Brunswick, Ontario, various locations in Québec and from the North Eastern States met in the beautiful city of Sherbrooke. They socialized and exchanged information and memories about their families and where they lived.
The day began with welcoming remarks by our President, Roger Levasseur. He stressed the importance of these gatherings and how our ancestors would be proud to see many of us together, 400 years after they crossed the Atlantic. Mr. Jacques Beaugrand, our guess speaker, informed us about recent discoveries tied to his DNA research and its application to family genealogy. He informed the participants about the family origins of the Levasseurs and from what countries they originated. Keep in mind that certain members of our Association participated in DNA tests to determine if our original ancestors were related. The results of his findings are published on our Web site.
A conference titled «A well connected Association» was made by Jean-Pierre, our Webmaster.
Huguette Levasseur spoke about the genealogical dictionaries produced by the Association. Her main emphasis was how to effectively carry out a research when referring to them. She also spoke about the continuous work Joceline, our genealogist, and Gilles Carmel do by reviewing and adding data to this gigantic data base.
In the afternoon, we participated in an historical theatrical presentation that allowed us to go back in time! In the company of Mary O’Malley, a colourful Irish girl, we met historical characters who left their mark in the development of the Eastern Townships. Gilbert Hyatt, a proud and valiant Loyalist, Géraldine Mollins the fiery wife of a settler, Grace Thompson, a seductive rich merchant from Lennox Ville and Andrew Paton, the owner and director of the largest wool mill in Canada.
Our data base on the Association’s site is very user friendly. Gilles Carmel made a presentation that was much appreciated by all of us. He showed us how to use the various research functions, easily accessible and readily available on the Web Site.
A great dinner was served and we enjoyed the pleasant music provided by a string quartet. There were also many door prizes awarded during the course of the evening.
We thank and express our gratitude to Paul, Pierrette and the team who organized this memorable gathering in Sherbrooke this past August 20, 2011. It is only a “so long” until next time!
Date: 14 August, 2010
Place: Pohénégamook, Québec
Organisating comitee: Mrs Marie-Stella Morneau and Mr Roland Williams with the collaboration of l’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
Mr. Roland Williams and Mrs. Marie-Stella Morneau, responsible for the organization of this gathering did not spare any efforts to make this gathering a success that will be remembered for years to come.
Conferences well appreciated
Réjean Levasseur, our friend emceed the proceedings through out the day. Réjean has been undertaking the taskof emcee since the first meeting held in 1980. Our president, Roger Levasseur, presented a brief historical summary of the Association. He emphasized the important role of its founding president, Vincent Levasseur, who passed away in 2005.
Followed, the author of this article who explained to those present the principal functions of the Association’s Web-Site (www.levasseur.org). He emphasized the frequency of usage of the data base and the on-line consultations of various archives and previous News Letters published since 1988.
Joceline Levasseur spoke about the two genealogical dictionaries and referred to the three generations of genealogists who have succeeded one another. Thanks to them, the Association can offer its members a data base approaching 120,000 entries accessible on-line on our Web site.
We tend to forget that the collection and verification of genealogical data from various sources constitutes the pivot of all family Associations. From its early beginning, all family associations start by assembling a data base of its descendants representing those who first came to America. Well beyond the technological advances offered by internet on a Web-site, the first and most important mission of a family association is the production of a dictionary for its members and those interested in genealogical research.
As frequently mentioned by Joceline, Québec remains a «paradise» for genealogist due to the ease of gathering data. However, that also implies an assiduous task. Without the dedication of a person like Joceline, it is doubtful that the success of a family associationcan be assured or maintained for a very long term. Bravo Joceline, we are indebted to you for your dedication to genealogy.
Gilles Carmel informs us about DNA results
A conference that participants looked forward to was made by Gilles Carmel. You may have noticed, in two previous issues of our News Letter, there were articles on DNA testing carried out to determine, beyond any doubt, whether our two ancestors, Laurent and Pierre were related.Though the subject is very complex, Gilles, using charts with remarkable competence, according to comments made by participants, explained and demystified this complex theory.
The history of Levasseurs in this region
Mr. Williams had a very special surprise for the participants. One must remember that the town of Pohénégamook stems from the fusion of Saint-David-de-Sully, Saint-Pierre d’Estcourt and Saint-Éleuthère on October 23, 1973.
A special tour was organized by our hosts in order to visit the principal locations where various Levasseur families lived within this municipality. Two local businesses were also visited, that of «Meubles Rhéal Levasseur» and «Guy Levasseur Inc». These visits were appreciated by the visiting members.
Presentation by Mr. Gaston Levasseur
Mr. Gaston Levasseur spoke about his Levasseur ancestors and their role in the Pohénégamook society. Many thanks to him.
A delightful meal
We must also mention the quality of the meal served by the caterer and the generosity of the sponsors who offered, in addition to the wine, numerous entry prizes during the evening.
Our thanks to the organisers and sponsors of this memorable gathering and cheers to the residents of Pohénégamook !
by: Jean-Pierre Levasseur (250)
Place : Québec, Qc, Canada
Date : August, 16 et 17, 2008
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
Activities began at 10 o’clock under the directions of Réjean Levasseur our master of ceremonies. He thanked Joceline, her sister Huguette, their families and Jean-Pierre for the many hours they spent to organize this gathering. He then presented the President of the Association, Gilles Carmel The President welcomed the participants and summarized the 20 years of existence of the Association. He mentioned that the first newsletter was published in English and French in January 1989 by Vincent, Roger and Réjean.
The master of ceremony then invited Roger to speak about the life of our ancestors Jean, Pierre and Laurent when they came to New France in the 17 h century. Their names were projected on a screen:
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- Noël Levasseur / Geneviève Ganche, parish St-Gilles, St-Leu – Paris.
- Jean Levasseur / Marguerite Richard, Paris, France. Québec 15/10/1665 -10 children.
- Pierre Levasseur / Jeanne de Chanvelange, Québec 25/10/1665 – 9 childen.
- Jeanne Levasseur, Pierre’s sister / Christophe de Rollet, Québec returned to France et left their son in Canada. He is the ancestor of all the DeRollet.
- Laurent Levasseur de Rouen / Marie-Marchand, Québec 30/10/1670 – They had 13 children.
Returning 400 years ago. Roger wore a costume of the times. He documented himself with a book by Jean-Pierre Hardy: « Chercher fortune en Nouvelle-France ».
Here in e few lines is a brief summary of the lives of our predecessors as presented by Roger.
The first settlers ignored the rigours of the Canadian winters. They suffered from the cold and scurvy. Many died and had it not been for the assistance of the Indians the colony could have been disseminated.T o survive our ancestors hunted game and cultivated vegetables and cereals. The had to cut wood to build a home and to keep warm. They also learned to dress with warmer close since the close they brought from France was not adapted to our harsh winters.
In the spring some «coureurs des bois» (trappers) would trap furs and ship them to France here they were in high demand to make coats and hats. Our ancestors learned how to care and treat diseases with herbs and the sap from certain trees. Shortly thereafter, religious orders came and built hospitals, churches and schooling facilities. Bulls were principally used for farming, horses came latter. The first ploughs were made with wood and the pitchforks were made with two prongs of wood. Rakes were also made of wood. As time progressed our ancestors sowed various grains and harvested their crops keeping some grain for the following year. To harvest they would use a flail to thresh the wheat, oats and barley. The grains would then be milled for flour a part for animal feed and for seeding next spring. Our ancestors had to adapt to this manual labour that was very demanding.
When listening to Roger, we realize that our daily activities are far different than those of our ancestors. This presentation in a combination of French and English was very instructive and the participants applauded warmly his informative review of how our ancestors lived in the early years of the colony.
Jean-Pierre then presented the Association’s new web site. various interactive sections were added and there are video extracts on the Association’s blog. This is how all previous Newsletters were numbered and are available on the site. Because of Jean-Pierre the Association is completely computerized. He devoted many hours and was involved for the past years on this project. Many thanks to you Jean-Pierre you have provided a tremendous service to our Association.
The official launch of our two dictionaries was delayed. On the eve of our meeting Joceline was told that they would not be delivered on time for the 20th anniversary. Joceline expressed some deception because her presentation was based on doing technical research with the new dictionaries. She thanked the participants for their understanding and their unfailing support. The participants applauded her for her dedication in this lengthy project.Participants who had ordered the dictionaries will be advised when they become available Lunch was served at noon and at 1:15 pm the group visited The Capital’s Observatory. It is situated on the 31st storey at a height of 221 meters. The overview of the city was greatly appreciated with a magnificent view of the St-Laurent, the Laurentians Mountains and the Old City.
By 4:00 pm the participants were back for the annual meeting and the election of administrators.
Late after-noon Réjean presented Pauline Gill, author of two historical novels on the life of Doctor Irma Levasseur. She spoke about her third noveland she wants to restore the name of this female physician. Irma Levasseur was the first French Canadian to practice medicine in Québec. She loved children. According to the author she was the true instigator and founder of the Hôpital Sainte-Justine in Montréal and founder of the Hôpital Enfant-Jésus in Québec.
She was not a member of the Montreal upper-class. The directors of the Hôpital Sainte-Justine refused to recognize her as the founder on the hospital’s 100th anniversary. Based on information given to her by her relatives, preserved archives and her extensive research she is hoping to restore the name of Irma Levasseur for her significant contribution to the practice of medicine for children in French Canada. Members of the Association appreciated her presentation and thanked Mrs Gill warmly. The banquet at 6:00 pm was preceded by a cocktail offered by the Association. The evening was animated by the accordionist Guy St-Jean who led the group in songs and dance. the atmosphere was one of feast, happiness and joy. Bravo to the organisers and thanks to the participants who attended to celebrate the Association’s 20th anniversary. Thanks to all this gathering was a succes .
By : Marie-Noëlle Levasseur.
Place: Gatineau, Qc, Canada
Date: September 1, 2 et 3, 2006
Organizing committee: Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
Many Levasseurs and their families attended the September 2006 gathering in the beautiful City of Gatineau. Rejean and his team offered various activities that were appreciated by the participants. We are offering you in this special issue of the Newsletter some photos and comments about the activities that took place.
Dr. Serge Bernier was the first speaker of the day. The topic of is talk was «Levasseurs in the military» dealing specifically with soldiers whose name was Levasseur and who served at the beginning of the Colony. Dr. Bernier referred to Louis Levasseur, René Nicolas Levasseur and Jacques Levasseur de Néré.
Roger Levasseur’s presentation was about the immigration of French Canadian to the United States and to Western Canada, of which many were Levasseurs. Roger, due to his natural talent as narrator, informed his audience in an original way about the immigration of our compatriots to the United States. His presentation was punctuated with many anecdotes that captivated the participants who shared with him stories of their own families during this period of our history.
Joceline spoke on a subject dear to her. Due to her dedicated, work the Association will soon have a re-edition of our dictionaries on Laurent and Pierre Levasseur. Joceline has verified the registries of all parishes and corrected the information in the Levasseur genealogical data base that was first published in 1990. This was a monumental task and the new documents will be available by 2008. A first version of this work was presented to the assembly. Check the Web site, there will be a pre-selling of these dictionaries in the coming months.
After the noon buffet, we visited the Canadian War Museum. This new museum is has distinct rooms offering a review of all conflicts throughout the history of Canada. The various exhibits of artefacts, photos and descriptions offer hours of exploration.
See website: http://www.warmuseum.ca/. The theme of the exhibit « Clash of Empires: The War That Made Canada 1754-1763». More than 250 years ago, French, British and First Peoples collided in a historic struggle for North America. This exhibition presents the story of the first global war, which erupted in the backwoods of Pennsylvania, spread to the gates of Québec City and decided Canada’s fate. Featuring almost 200 artefacts from 55 different collections and institutions, Clash of Empires explores the international context of this conflict, and how it has helped shape today’s world. Collections from Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada have all contributed to the exhibition, including clothing, weaponry, decorative arts, painting and documents, profiling the conflict as it was experienced among the First Peoples, the British and the French.
The general meeting and the election of the board members was held in the afternoon. The members of the board are, from the left: Roger Levasseur, Diane Lacroix, Jean-Pierre Levasseur et Joseph Levasseur. On the right Gilles Carmel (who accepted the presidency for another term), André Levasseur, Joceline Levasseur et Réjean Levasseur. Absent from the photo are: Marie-Noëlle Levasseur, Michele Levasseur and Paul Levasseur.
Mr. Denis Drouin, president of the Samuel-de-Champlain regionalof the Franco-Ontarian Society of History and Genealogy, and his Vice-President, Ian Laflèche, receive from Gilles Carmel a plaque commemorating Vincent Levasseur. It will be placed in the entrance of one of their halls in memory of our founding president, Vincent Levasseur.
On Sunday morning many Levasseur attended mass at the St-François-de-Sales Church honouring Vincent. The participants then went to the cemetery where Roger Levasseur unveiled a commemorative plaque on the Levasseur family tombstone honouring Vincent.
Place: Quebec city, Qc, Canada
Date: September. 4 and 5, 2004
Organizing committee: Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
The 2004 Réunion: what a wonderful and unforgettable day. The weather was PLEASANT and as the guest arrived they were most HAPPY to meet. The day started with the registration of guests followed by two very interesting conferences. The first speaker, Mrs. Ginette Laroche, PhD and art historian developed the theme “Levasseur as sculptors”.
Pierre and Jean, both carpenters, have created masterpieces that we now find in many churches in Québec. Moreover, they have transmitted their skills to many of their descendants.
The second speaker, Mrs. Madeleine Desrivières, author and biographer, described in details the life of Dre Irma Levasseur. A pediatrician, Dre Irma Levasseur was the first French-speaking woman to practice medicine in Canada. She co-founded Hospital Ste-Justine in Montreal and Hospital Enfant-Jesus in Quebec City. A remarkable women and highly sensitive to infant mortality, her story is very touching and interesting
Then came the lunch prepared by the staff of la Maison Jésus-Ouvrier. Before departing for the afternoon program, the group assembled for the traditional family photo. Without loosing any time, we are now en route for a guided tour of Old Quebec City. Our visit will focus on our ancestors: where they lived and worked. We visited the chapel of l’Hôpital General. The beauty of the tabernacle created by the Levasseur was absolutely outstanding. We have also seen a few sculptures of Sister Marie-Joseph Hallé a descendant of Laurent Levasseur.
We then walked to the Ursuline Chapel, where there are many ornamental works produced, by Pierre-Noel and his sons. We are indebted to the Ursulines for having saved and maintained these objects of great value. Among them are a tabernacle, many statues and a pulpit with an angel and trumpet. All the gilding has been done by the Ursulines. You are encouraged to visit these magnificent pieces of art. In our small bus we then crossed Porte St-Louis, in the form of an arch, to find ourselves in narrow streets behind the Chateau Frontenac. According to the 1716 parish Census, Pierre II Levasseur married to Anne Mesnage had a house located on des Carrières Street.
In 1734, an act indicates that there was a house and a lot measuring 74’ by 71’ located on Mont-Carmel Street. This lot was parceled out between his widow and his son Pierre Noël It is now buried under the Chateau. We then stopped by the courtyard of the Old Quebec Seminary where we could see the layout of the house of Guillemette Hébert and water well. Laurent Levasseur has worked for Guillemette Hébert in the period 1663-1669. The Architectural department of Laval University now occupies the Old Seminary. Our guide remarked that Jean and Pierre Levasseur were co-founders of Mme de Sainte-Anne Society, a group mainly composed of carpenters and tradesmen. Jean Levasseur was also responsible for the maintenance of the first church built in Quebec City. In this spot, we now find the Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica where many baptisms, weddings and funerals of Levasseur were celebrated.
St-Louis Street was the first inhabited street in Haute-Ville, Quebec. The 1716 Census indicates that Noël Levasseur was one of its residents. On 34 St-Louis Street is the Jacquet house, the oldest house of Québec City. Since 1966, it has been the home of the restaurant “Les Anciens Canadiens”. Almost facing this house, the Levasseur had their houses and workshops. The 1716 Census also reports that Pierre (son of Pierre)
had a house on des Carrieres street, very close to the Chateau Frontenac. At the time, Pierre was registered as a carpenter. worth mentioning is Sainte-Genevieve Street now called Avenue.
On this street in 1758, the Levasseur dit Borgia had two lots facing the Jardins des Gouverneurs. Our bus tour also took us to many historic sites. Among them are Place Royale, the Trésor Street in existence since 1689, Rue des Artistes and many other very interesting sites. Our guide then led us to the famous Plains of Abraham full of history, military battles and intrigues. Our guide took pleasure in detailing the most memorable events, which took place on these famous Plains. We noticed many Quebecers and tourists soaking the sun on this beautiful afternoon.
Back to the Maison de Jésus-Ouvrier the Board of Directors invited all guests to the General meeting where elections of new Directors were held. It was followed by a banquet complete with a social evening full of songs, music, dance and happiness. Many retired early to get ready for a busy morning at the Sainte-Anne de Beaupré Basilica. On Sunday
Au revoir
Marie-Noëlle Levasseur, secretary
Place: Gatineau, Qc, Canada
Date: August 30 and 31, 2002
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
What a great meeting that was. The organizing committee decided to convene the Levasseur to a historical visit aboard the steam engine train that operates between Hull and Wakefield Quebec. In the especially reserved car for the Levasseurs the trip was an unforgettable excursion on one of the last steam-operated trains in operation in Canada. The sinuous tracks along the Outaouais River crosses a magnificent natural reserve of Canada, the Gatineau Park.
Discovery of this enchanting landscape was made with the accompaniment of experienced and knowledgeable guides. They were musicians and entertainers who shared with us their love and appreciation of this wonderful park. The journey from Hull to Wakefield is 64 KM. The train track is right along side the picturesque Outaouais River and overlooks the Gatineau hills taking us to the historical and beautiful town of Wakefield.
After returning from this memorable journey a meeting of the Association was held in Gatineau. The executive is please to have as new members on its executive Joceline Levasseur and Pierre Carmel.
A banquet and social evening followed. The Levasseurs enjoyed this opportunity to meet new relatives and have a good time together. The weekend ended with a mass followed by a brunch on Sunday morning.
Place: Edmunston, NB, Canada
Date: August 5, 2000
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
The Majority of Levasseur in the Madawaska Region, are descendants of Laurent Levasseur and originate from the Lower St-Lawrence River. Descendants of Pierre were also represented. Descendants of Jean, also known under the name of Vasseur, in Vermont were not represented. It was quite a memorable day where joy, fraternity and enthusiasm will be long remembered by the attending Levasseurs. The first objective of the reunion was to highlight and honour the arrival of the first Levasseurs in the Madawaska region.
Mr. Jean-Baptiste Levasseur, born in Kamouraska, married Madeleine Landry, widow of J.B. Cormier, on 21 August 1775. ( refer to contract by Notary Michel Saindon). They arrived in St-Basile in 1786 and in 1787, their daughter Victoire was baptized. She was followed by Stanislas in 1792, Anastasie in 1794, Benjamin in 1795, Isidore
In 1797 and finally Alexis in 1799.In 1790, Thomas Carleton then Lieutenant-governor of New-Brunswick, signed a decree giving and title to 49 pioneers in the concession of Mazerole. Jean-Baptiste obtained lot No 6-209. This lot is now located at the mouth of Rivière-Verte and is almost intact with only one small parcel having been sold. This family had a good number of descendants both on the Canadian and the American soil. We also find them in St-Basile, Rivière-Verte, Clair and St-François.
It also noteworthy that Jean-Baptiste was also one signatory of a petition for the construction of a church in St-Basile N.B. The church in now known as St-Basile-le-Grand.
The Association has honoured the memory of Jean-Baptiste Levasseur by erecting a cross at the St-Basile Cemetery. This cross is aligned with the crosses representing the other founders of the parish and is facing the Maison Cyr at the foot of the cemetery.
Mr Jacques Albert, who gave earlier in the morning an excellent presentation on the beginnings of the Madawaska Region, was also present for the ceremony. He hosted a quick visit of la Maison Cyr and provided minute details on the living at the time. The visit was most appreciated by all participants. To renew with their origins, the Levasseur proceeded to a guided tour the museum, chapel and cemetery of les Religieuses Hospitalières de St-Basile.
Our gratitude goes to the Sisters not only for the visit but more for their devotion in maintaining a good part of our history and our patrimony.
Place: Kamouraska, Qc, Canada
Date: August 28, 1999
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
Kamouraska is the homeland of Pierre Levasseur, a pioneer of the Kamouraska seigniory. Close to one hundred friends of the Levasseur and Association members gathered at the Kamouraska community center to make new friend and learn more about their ancestors. Numerous activities were organized for this gathering and theparticipants had an opportunity to view the charms of this picturesque region along the Saint-Laurent where sea and earth intermingle and where many ancestral homes have kept their style of yesteryear.
Among the activities offered to the participants there were genealogy working sessions, a conference on the history of the Association and its goals. The general assembly was presided by André Levasseur. There was a guided tour to the Kamouraska seigniory. The participants had a chance to set foot on the grounds where our ancestor, Pierre Levasseur, cultivated the land and raised his family (see map).
Gilles LeVasseur, the Association’s new president unveiled of a commemorative plaque honoring Pierre Levasseur as one of the founders of Kamouraska. The plaque was blessed by Dominique Levasseur, O.M.I., of Québec City, and can be viewed at the town’s memorial site.
This achievement by the The new Board of Directors which will keep future generations aware of Pierre Levasseur’s contributions to the development of Kamouraska.
Place: Ste-Marthe du Cap-de-la-Madeleine, Qc, Canada
Date: August 15, 1998
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
A memorable weekend filled with numerous activities greeted the Levasseurs and their guests at Ste-Marthe-du-Cap-de-la-Madeleine on August 14 and 15, 1998. More than 100 guests responded to the invitation of the organizing committee and enjoyed two days of genealogical activities. Our president André Levasseur and his organizing committee worked hard to make these days a success. The photos below attest to this success. Paul and Françoise Levasseur welcomed guests at the reception. Incidentally, Françoise is the daughter of Thomas Levasseur, one of the elders who was honoured at the dinner on Saturday.
The gathering was in the hall “Le Domaine” in Ste-Marthe-du-Cap- de-la-Madeleine,located close to the St-Laurent River and adjacent to the famous sanctuary of “Cap de la Madeleine”. André Levasseur unveiled the new Levasseur coat of arms. There are few that have official coat of arms from The Canadian Heraldic Authority. This coat of arms is the fruit of many hours of work, lets be proud of it.
Place: Hull, Qc, Canada
Date : August 31, 1997
Organizing committee : L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
On August 31, 1997, more than 60 Levasseurs met at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Hull Quebec to talk about genealogy. Genealogy was not the only topic discussed. Soon after the opening some of the participants visited the Gatineau Hills while others went downtown to visit the many sites of the National Capital Region of Canada. In addition to establishing links that tie them back to their originals ancestors, Pierre and Laurent, who arrived around 1650, they learned about other Levasseurs, found similarities and made new friends. Those who stayed at the hall improved their knowledge about their origin and established links that tie them to other Levasseurs in North America.
After lunch, President André from Ste-Angèle-de-Laval welcomed everyone who came to participate at this pleasant and brotherly weekend. Speaker Marie Bézaire Levasseur talked about the origins of the Levasseur family originally from the Windsor Ontario region. She also mentioned a radio program aired on CBC Radio on the genealogy of French Canadians. Our founding president, Vincent gave a presentation on our descendants, Pierre and Laurent and an update on the status of the Association. After, the participants formed small groups to talk about their respective families and establish links that bind them to the large Levasseur family.
It is interesting to note how out friends from Bay City, Michigan, are related to the Levasseurs who established themselves in the Red River valley in Manitoba. Our ancestors chose to settle throughout North America today, largely because of the shortages of work and lack of cultivatable land in Québec, compared to the availability work and vast and fertile landing the United States and in the Western Provinces of Canada.
Thanks to our friend Rolland of Hull, participants enjoyed a succulent and enjoyable meal. The participants interrupted their meal to witness the launch of more than 120 hot air balloons from places all over the globe. There shapes ranged from an eagle, a 4×4 truck, a maple leaf, and even a Scottish bag-pipe. Have our meeting coincide with this festival was a good idea. There was also a draw for six bottle of wins, congratulation to the lucky winners.
More surprises followed dinner. The president, André of, honored Murielle and Vincent, our founder, on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary and presented them with two tickets for “Show Boat” which his been acclaimed by the local media critics. André also mentioned the importance of the association, not only to promote genealogy but also to create new bonds of fraternity and friendship.
Did you ever imagine seeing 60 Levasseurs reunited in one place, line dancing and having fun like young teenagers? Well, that is what happened with the help of our special guess, Claire Michaud. The group danced and enjoyed themselves for more than an hour and a half. The Levasseurs learned new dances and realized how good Vincent and his wife are at line-dancing. Maybe some day our president André, with practice, may succeed at becoming a good line dancer.
The highlight of the evening was the three singers, Lucille Biziaire of Orléans,Ont. Hélène Levasseur/Charon from Maple Ridge, BC. and Marcelle Levasseur-Bélanger from Orléans, Ont. Surprisingly, they did not know one another before the reunion, but they delighted the crowd for more than an hour with old and modern songs. No one will forget their interpretation of Evangeline. Our thanks are offered to our three musicians.
The evening came to a close with many Levasseurs expressing their joy with a song. We are grateful to Alain and Diane Lacroix (Vincent’s daughter) for providing lively and diversified music for the evening.
The fantastic display of fireworks at the Hot Air Balloon Festival was a fitting closure to this Levasseur family reunion.
Place: Rimouski, Qc, Canada
Date: August 31, 1996
Organizing committee : L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
The Levasseur gathering of last August 31 in Rimouski, Quebec that was an event that could be rated as super. Various activities as well as the lecturer, the information system, the meal, everything was right on. Many of the participants have met again with Levasseurs they only see in these gatherings. This is also the ideal place to make new aquaintances.
The election of the Board of Directors wich take place on that day left a few opening on the Board. but on the other hand, represemtatives were elected in areas where they previousley absent. For instance, in eastern Quebec, Jean-Pierre from Rimouski was elected and Ginette from Cap-Rouge was elected. More informations concerning the members of your newly elected Board of Directors will be part of the future issue of your Newsletter.
Many thanks to you, Jean-Pierre and Paule, for the skillfull organization of such a wonderful day.
Laval Levasseur
Place: Manchester, NH, USA
Date: August 4 and 5, 1995
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique1995 : Manchester, NH, USA
DESPITE POOR ATTENDANCE,
MANCHESTER GET-TOGETHER IS CAPTIVATING
No less than 1300 invitations were mailed to Levasseurs of the United States and Canada. Less than fifty responded .. .
Nevertheless, the first activity organized in the United States by the Association des families Levasseur d’Amérique was quite interesting. The get-together “Discover Your Heritage” 1995 that took place in Manchester, New-Hampshire, last August 4 and 5, was superbly well planned and organized by the vice-president of the association, Joseph Levasseur. Not only should he not be blamed for the poor turnout, on the contrary, he deserves all our congratulations for the many hours he devoted to the planning of this get-together. Of course, the board of directors of YOUR association will try to find the reasons for the membership’s apathy. They would like you to tell them why this get-together in Manchester did not have a greater success as far as the number of participants. Your representatives would also like to know what kind of activities you would prefer.
We must remember that the Association des Levasseur d’Amérique of which YOU are a member is the only authentic, with its patent letters, its coat of arms, and is officially recognized. Naturally, the
Manchester get-together was a financial deficit. However, because of the good financial situation of the association, it was not catastrophic, thank God! An association like ours is a nonprofit organization, which means that it does not exist to make money. It must however not lose money because that would automatically mean the end of it, and its existence will have been for naught.
Let’s remember that the first objective of the Association des Levasseur d’Amérique is to learn more about our ancestors and promote get-togethers where the descendants of Pierre and Laurent can get to know each other. This is exactly what the small group who went to New-Hampshire on August 4 and 5 has lived.
During registration, the participants received a special edition of the Levasseur newsletter. Inside, one could find welcoming letters from New-Hampshire Senator Bob Smith and Governor Stephen Merrill. There was even a personal letter from the President of the American Senate Joseph L. Delahunty and an official proclamation of the New-Hampshire House of Representatives. Thankfully, these high ranking politicians did not decide to participate as that would have been embarrassing. Manchester
Mayor Raymond J. Wieczorek, welcomed all Levasseurs to his city. Adèle Boufford Baker and Paul-J. Tremblay, co-presidents of the Manchester Canado-american Association, wished us a successful get-together.
In his welcoming speech on the morning of the fifth, the president of the association, Paul Levasseur, mentioned that if we had decided to hold a first get-together in the United States, it was because we wanted to get closer to our American cousins. After all, 45% of the members are Americans.
The founding president, Vincent Levasseur, talked about the history of the Association which he founded in 1988. He said that there are Levasseurs everywhere in Canada, from New-Brunswick to Vancouver and in the United States, from Florida to California. The ex-president also reminded us of the research done by Jean-Charles Levasseur of Portland, Oregon, before 1965. He also mentioned the get-together held in Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré in 1957, where it was discussed of the possibility to start a Levasseur association. Finally, Vincent raised the fact that our association needs new blood. The best way to do it is to talk about our ancestors to our children. Joseph suggested that a good way to do this is to offer a membership to our children who are married.
Place: Ste-Angèle (Bécancour), QC, Canada
Date: September 11, 1993
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
On last 11 September, l’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique held a meeting activity at Ste-Angèle de Laval, which more than 200 people attended.
The activity got underway by a mass at Ste-Angèle church followed by the unveiling by the Association of a plaque. This plaque is in memory of Jean-Baptiste Levasseur, the regional ancestor who has gave the land on which the Ste-Angèle-deLaval church and presbytery were built.
Jean-Baptiste (1804-1877) is a descendant of Denis-Joseph (1712-1792), the ancestor of all Levasseurs in the Trois-Rivières region and a descendant of the ancestor Pierre Levasseur (1629-1694). This interior wall at the rear of the church expresses tribute to our ancestors, all the Levasseurs and their descendants, and a reminder of the values put forth by the Association: respect, confidence, courage and mutual aid.
The gathering was carried on at the Collège Mont-Bénilde by a light lunch followed by the general meeting where a new Board of Directors was elected. The activity ended with a corn roast.
This get-together has provided the Levasseurs and their families with a great opportunity to fraternize, exchange ideas and make new acquaintances.
1 wish to thank the organization committee: Pierre (Pierreville), Roger (Gentilly, Bécancour)f André (Trois-Rivières), André (St-Grégoire, Bécancour). They deserve all the credit for making this activity a great success.
Paul Levasseur, Sherbrooke
Place: Montréal, QC, Canada
Date: August 8, 1992
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique 11 septembre 1993
The 8th of August get together was an enjoyable as well as a memorable day. Even if most participants were from the province of Québec, which is normal, we still had a good turn-out from the U.S.A.. Many Levasseurs renewed acquaintance with cousins they had not seen since the Great Rally in 1990. Others met for the first time, brotherly happiness could be felt throughout the day.
Without a doubt, the chief attraction of the day was the unveiling of our coat of arms by our president. Afterwards, Paul and Réjean proceeded with a detailed definition of the crest. There was total amazement, and all Levasseurs present seemed very proud of the emblem that will identify them in the future. Thanks toPaul for such a wonderful piece of work.
We should also be grateful to our president-genealogist for the publication and presentation on that day of two hooks, certainly the most complete ever, relating the genealogy of our two ancestors, Laurent and Pierre, from the very beginning in the 17 century.
In late afternoon, a mass was celebrated by three priest named Levasseur. Then came the banquet followed by a musical evening. Some, not waisting any time, were getting better acquainted with cousins they had met during the day. Many thanks to you all for being there; you made it a great
day. “See you next time”.
Place: Oakville, Mn, USA
Date: September 6, 1992
Organizing committee: Nancy et Delsie Levasseur
Place: White Bear Lake, Mn
Date: 1992
Organizing committee: Ken at Grace LeVasseur
Place: St-Léandre-de-Matane, Qc, Canada
Date: August 24, 1991
Organizing committee: Bernard Gaouette
Place: Salt Lake City
Date: Summer 1991
Organizing committee: Douglas Levasseur
Place: Salt Lake City
Date: Summer 1992
Organizing committee: Douglas Levasseur
Place: Québec, Qc, Canada
Date: July 21 and 22, 1990
Organizing committee: L’Association des Levasseur d’Amérique
Place: St-Éleuthère, Qc
Date : August 19, 1988
Organizing committee: M. Bernard Gaouette
More than 125 participants.
Place: Kamouraska, Qc
Date: August 18, 1984
Organizing committee: M. Bernard Gaouette
The descendants of Laurent Levasseur and Marie Marchand, who married in Québec City on April 30th 1670, met in the Church of Saint-André de Kamouraska on Saturday August 18, 1984. Two hundred and fourteen direct or related descendants of the Levasseurs were in the church for the celebration of a mass by Father Louis Levasseur. Father Louis was the parish priest of Saint-Pascal-de-Baylon in the City of Montréal.
This meeting was to commemorate the 125 birthday of Rémi Levasseur, Mr Gaouette’s grand father.
Place: Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré, Qc, Canada
Date: August 1957
Organizing committee : see attached file
Place: Lowell, Ma, USA
Date: 1954
Organizing committee: unknown
