André Beauchemin facts for kids

André Beauchemin (born November 6, 1824 – died December 13, 1902) was a Métis politician in Manitoba. He represented the community of St. Vital. The Métis are a group of Indigenous people in Canada who have mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.

Early Life and Work

André Beauchemin was born on November 6, 1824, in the Red River area. His parents were André Millet Beauchemin and Madeleine Ducharme. He was a farmer and also worked as a wheelwright, which means he built and repaired wheels for carts and wagons. His wife was Geneviève Delorme.

A Leader in Politics

Beauchemin became an important figure in his community. He first represented St. Vital on the Red River Council. This council was set up by the Métis leader Louis Riel in 1869.

Later, Beauchemin joined the Convention of Forty as a delegate. This group helped shape the future of Manitoba. In February 1870, this convention formed Manitoba's first provisional government. Beauchemin served as a councillor in this new government.

He was then elected to the Legislative Assembly of Assiniboia. This was like the first parliament for the region. He represented the St. Vital area.

Supporting Louis Riel

In November 1872, Beauchemin showed his support for Louis Riel. He offered to step down from his seat in the Manitoba assembly. This would have allowed Riel to run for election in his place.

However, Alexander Morris, who was in charge of the province at the time, warned that Riel could not run for election. Because of this, Beauchemin stayed in his seat. He continued to serve as a representative until 1874.