Joseph-François Hertel de la Fresnière facts for kids
Joseph-François Hertel de la Fresnière (born 1642 – died 1722) was a brave military leader in New France, which is what Canada was called long ago. He was born in Trois-Rivières, a small town on the edge of the wilderness. His father, Jacques Hertel, was a local lord. Joseph-François grew up in a time when there was always a danger of conflict with the Iroquois people.
In 1661, when he was just 19, Joseph-François was captured by the Iroquois. He lived with them for up to two years and learned their language and customs. His family thought he was dead, but he managed to escape and find his way back home!
A Life of Adventure
Joseph-François Hertel was involved in many important events during his life. He fought in many battles against the Iroquois. He also helped build Fort Frontenac, an important fort for New France.
Leading Expeditions
When a big war called King William's War started in 1689, Governor Frontenac chose Joseph-François to lead a special mission. In 1690, he successfully led a group that attacked a place called Salmon Falls, near the border of what is now Maine and New Hampshire. He also helped capture a settlement on Falmouth Neck, which is now Portland, Maine.
After these missions, he returned to Canada. He helped defend Quebec when it was attacked by English colonists led by Sir William Phips.
Family Life
Joseph-François Hertel married Marguerite de Thavenet on September 22, 1664. They had a very large family with 15 children! Many of his sons, especially Jean-Baptiste Hertel de Rouville, followed in his footsteps and became military leaders too. The Hertel name became very well-known, and sometimes feared, in the English colonies because of their brave actions.
In 1716, after many years of hard work and requests from the governors of New France, Joseph-François was given a special title and became a local noble.
