Francois amirault
Date of Birth
circa 1644
Place of Birth
Ligré, Indre-et-Loire, Centre, France
Towns / Cities Moved Into
Ligré, Indre-et-Loire, Centre, France
Cobequit, Acadia, Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada
Known Occupation
Farmer
Religion
-
Spouse
Death Information
Year of death
April 15, 1737
Place of death
Cobequit, Acadia, Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada
Cause of death
-
Obituary
Parents
Jeanne Cecile L'Amirault Tourangeau Closse
François Amirault dit Tourangeau
Marital Status
Marie Pitre
1683
Port Royal, Acadie
Children
Narrative / Story
François Amirault, born in 1644 in the culturally rich landscapes of France, was not just an early settler in Acadia but a remarkable figure whose life story mirrored the great social, political, and cultural transformations of his era. From his early years, François exhibited an insatiable curiosity and a remarkable talent for the arts, nurtured by the vibrant history and artistic heritage of his homeland.
As a child, the scenic beauty of his surroundings – the rolling hills, vibrant meadows, and quaint villages of France – became his canvas and inspiration. With paintbrush in hand, François captured the essence of nature, honing a unique artistic style that would define his creative journey. His talent did not go unnoticed, leading to formal training under the era’s renowned masters, where he absorbed the techniques of the old masters while embracing the emerging innovations of the Baroque period.
But François’s artistic aspirations were not limited to the visual arts. He ventured into the realm of writing, crafting narratives and tales that captivated readers with their vivid imagery and compelling storytelling. His literary works, reflecting his deep engagement with the intellectual currents of his time, brought him into the circles of French society’s elite, where he participated in salons and discussions with contemporary philosophers, writers, and artists.
As he matured, the dawning Age of Enlightenment profoundly influenced his work. François’s art and writings began to echo the era’s ideals – reason, individualism, progress – often exploring themes of social justice, human rights, and the pursuit of knowledge. His contributions to both visual and literary arts transcended France’s borders, earning acclaim across Europe.
François Amirault’s journey from France to Acadia marked a significant transition in his life. In Acadia, he faced the challenges of colonial life, navigating the complexities of a new world while maintaining his artistic pursuits. His experiences in Acadia, from the rugged landscapes to the dynamic socio-political environment, added depth and texture to his artistic expression.
In Acadia, François married Marie Pitre and raised a family, embedding his artistic legacy within the fabric of this emerging society. His life in the New World, marked by movements across various settlements, reflected the resilience and adaptability required of early settlers. Despite the uncertainties and hardships, François continued to engage with his passions, leaving an indelible mark on his family and community.
François Amirault’s story is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the impact of art in times of great societal change. His legacy, a blend of artistic brilliance and pioneering spirit, continues to inspire generations, symbolizing the rich cultural tapestry that early settlers like him wove into the New World.
historical Events
Wedding, Marriage & Home
married to marie Pitre
1683
Port Royal, Acadie
residence
In 1686 at Port-Royal, Francois age 42 was living with his wife Marie Pitre age 22 and their daughter Jeanne age 2.
residence
François and Marie are both listed as inhabitants of the East Coast of Acadie in 1714 on the marriage registration for François (son) and Magdelaine Laure. They are still on the East Coast of Acadie in 1718 according to the marriage registration of Joseph and Marguerite Laure. In 1719 they are simply referred to as habitants of the coast in the marriage registration of Magdaleine and Jean Comeau. In the 1723 marriage registration of Marguerite and Jacques Mius de Pobomcoup, François and Marie are said to be living in Cape Sable. By November 1725, they are both listed as living in Cobequid (present day Truro), in the marriage register for Jeanne and Jacques Giroard. In 1726, they are still listed as living in Cobequid in the July marriage registration of Pierre and Anne Brun, and on both the August marriage registrations of Jacques and Jeanne Lord, and Charles and Claire Dugas.
residence
After 1726, Marie Pitre disappears from records, age 60 years. François would live another 11 years. The final document which has been found indicating that François is still living in Cobequid on 15 Apr 1737, is a bill of sale of his land in Cape Sable to his children. As he was illiterate, he signed this document with an X, which was notarized by Nicolas Gautier. After this, François also disappears from history.
Notable Things Done in Lifetime
settled in north america
François Amireau, called Tourangeau, was born around 1644. He was a native of Tours or Touraine in France. “ François Amirault dit Tourangeau was the first and only person to settle in North America has this name. We do not know exactly when he came to Acadie or in what capacity (colonist or soldier). Since he has a “dit” name it has often been assumed that he must have been a soldier who stayed in the New World after his service was complete. Tourangeau however could simply have been a nickname to indicate that he was originally from Tours or Touraine en France. Unfortunately, DNA tests carried out in 2004 could not link him to any Amirault’s currently living in that area of France.
Accomplished Navigator
Acadians are mostly known for their distinctive form of lowland farming of reclaimed salt marshes around the Bay of Fundy. This required them to invest significant time and effort into collaboratively building extensive dykes and aboiteaux systems. However, our ancestor, and those Acadians who settle around Cap-Sable, survived mostly from fishing, hunting, and trading. In some documents, François is referred to as an accomplished navigator. Cap-Sable would have been an area where his particular skills would thus be put to better use.
Relevant events in their time period in their town
Treaty of Pinerolo
February 21, 1645: The signing of the Treaty of Pinerolo between France and Savoy. The treaty ended the war between the two powers and secured French control over certain territories in northern Italy.
Archbishop of Paris
April 17, 1645: Cardinal Jules Mazarin, a trusted advisor to King Louis XIII, was appointed as the coadjutor of the Archbishop of Paris. This marked an important step in Mazarin's rise to power and influence in France.
Photos
