Louis Lacerte facts for kids

Louis Lacerte was an important person in the early history of Manitoba. He was a skilled blacksmith (someone who works with metal), a merchant (a person who buys and sells goods), and a political figure (someone involved in government). He played a part in the government of the Red River Settlement, working alongside Louis Riel.

Who Was Louis Lacerte?

Louis Lacerte was born on January 15, 1821, in a place called Rupert's Land. This was a huge area of land in North America that was once owned by the Hudson's Bay Company. His parents, Louis Lacerte Sr. and Marie Martin, were both of Métis descent. The Métis are a unique Indigenous people in Canada with mixed Indigenous and European (often French) heritage.

Early Life and Family

Louis Lacerte grew up in a time when the Red River Settlement, which would later become part of Manitoba, was developing. He was married twice during his life. His first wife was Josephte Vandal, whom he married before 1844. After she passed away, he married Charlotte Lesperance in 1879.

Working and Moving Around

For a time, Louis Lacerte worked for the Hudson's Bay Company. This was a very powerful trading company that controlled much of the fur trade in early Canada. He worked for them until 1848. By 1850, he had moved to Pembina, North Dakota, which is just south of the Canadian border. Later, by 1870, Lacerte was living in the St. Norbert parish, which is now part of Winnipeg.

A Role in Government

Louis Lacerte became involved in the politics of the Red River Settlement. He was a member of two important groups that helped govern the area: the "Convention of Twenty-Four" and the "Convention of Forty." These groups were formed during a time of big changes in the region, as Manitoba was becoming a province.

What Was the Legislative Assembly of Assiniboia?

Louis Lacerte also served in the Legislative Assembly of Assiniboia. This was an early form of government for the Red River Settlement. It was created to help manage the community and make decisions before Manitoba officially joined Canada. Being a part of this assembly meant Louis Lacerte helped shape the future of the region.

Later Life and Community Work

Besides his political work, Louis Lacerte was also active in his local community in St. Norbert. He served as a school commissioner, helping to oversee the schools in the area. He also worked as an overseer of highways for the parish, which meant he helped manage and maintain the roads.

Louis Lacerte passed away in St. Norbert on December 30, 1882.