We could not have asked for better weather or a more charming location for our last gathering on the weekend of August
18th and 19th. Many of the members had not seen each other since the last gathering so there were greetings all around
and everyone had stories to share. What a wonderful time for fellowship between cousins from near and far!
Early Saturday morning, some twenty participants boarded the bus which would take them to l’île d’Orléans. The first
stop was l’Espace Félix Leclerc. Félix Leclerc was an author-songwriter-performer, poet, playwright, and writer whose life
and career were influenced by the lovely scenery of the island.
Félix’s coat and guitar are
displayed at the ‘museum’.
Outside, in a park across the street, a giant sculpture in Félix’s image cannot be missed. The sculpture is almost entirely covered with letters. It pays tribute to this man who, through his writing, touched the lives of many.
The second stop was at la Maison de nos aieux (the Home of our ancestors). The building is a former manse which has
been repurposed and is now an Interpretation Center. Visitors to the center are given an overview of the history of the
island and of its founding families. The Perrons are about to embark on this discovery.
Le Parc-des-Ancêtres-de-l’île-d’Orleans (The
Ancestor’s Park): On the panels are the names
of the founding families; a tribute to those who
settled on the island, made it their home and
had children.
The third stop was at la Maison Drouin; a historic and authentic house built in 1730 and inhabited until 1984. The woodwork in this dwelling is all original. The initial house had but two rooms. As the property sold and the families grew, three other rooms were added. The house never had running water. This visit was truly a step back in time; not only was the building unique but it also offered a glimpse of how early pioneers lived.
Dinner time and the Perrons are on their way to
the restaurant. Manon had chosen the Moulin de
Saint-Laurent (Mill of Saint-Laurent) Restaurant in
the municipality of the same name. The service was
excellent and the food delicious.
Manon (719), the coordinator of the gathering and
Martine, her sister-in-law whose help is invaluable to
Manon, with their partners.
On this picture, one recognizes Micheline,
Gilles (847), Gabrielle (313), Pierre (165)
and Lise (587).
In the background are David and
Richard (755). Gérard listens to sisters Micheline (393) and Jeannine
(293) who are engaged in a lively
discussion and Denise is speaking to
Pierre.
After the meal, my husband and I had to part ways with these lovely folks. We traveled in the opposite direction to the municipality of St-Jean-de-l’île-d’Orleans to view the new site where the Blouin monument and plaque are now situated. The plaque was erected last year by the Blouin Association during their 15th anniversary celebrations.
The last stop for the Perron travelers was the Maritime Park in the St. Laurent municipality. I was told that I had missed a
lovely outing. Unfortunately, one cannot see everything but I will definitely put it on my list of must-see attractions for my
next visit to this picturesque island.