YTB Travel Chronicles

Jacques Mousseau came to Canada in 1653 as a conscript soldier as part of “La Grande Recrue” to defend Montreal against the Iroquois. After his term of military service, in 1655, he purchased a concession of land; and, in 1658, he married Marguerite Sauviot - “A King’s Daughter.” The story of the earliest French settlers to Montreal is marvelously chronicled in the book “1631 - 1982. OUR FRENCH CANADIAN ANCESTRY” by T.W.DeNomme.

From that modest beginning, the name of “Mousseau” has moved out to the entire continent. Jerimiah Mousseau, a 7th- Generation descendant of Jacques and Marguerite, brought The Mousseau heritage to Michigan. My Grandfather, William (8^th generation), was among the first of the clan to be born in Michigan. My Father and his brothers were all born in Alpena County, Michigan, where I was born and raised. Thanks to the inspired genealogical efforts of my Mother, Edith Mousseau, this information has been passed to me; and, has enriched my life immensely.

In 1998, I traveled to Azay le Rideau, France (Jacques’ French origin) to attempt to enlarge on the research. The Archives of Tour, as well as, the local Genealogical Society, had very little to add to the DeNomme information. The recording of family information, before the 1650s’, was mostly dependant on the skill and diligence of the clergy. Baptism (not birth), Marriage, and Death records were the province of the church. Fortunately, the new settlers in Montreal took special pains to maintain excellent secular records. As a result, I can pass on the heritage to my Grandchildren.

Along the way, my travels have taken me to many wonderful places. I have found Mousseau’s in almost every province, state, and town along the way. I even found a Mousseau on “The Wall.” Please read my post: “Washington D.C. at Last.”

Gary Mousseau lives in Sarasota, Florida with his wife of 37 years, Jean. Gary recently left his 26-year career as a Registered Nurse to pursue his passion as a Home-Based Internet Entrepreneur in the YTB Travel Network Phone: (941) 957-0008. E-mail: MousseauTravel@aol.com