27

Pipes for a water distribution system
1880-1900
Kamouraska (Québec), Canada

Credits:
The Collection of the Musée régional de Kamouraska
Red spruce
N.A.C. 1977.939

28

In 1917, Charles-Alfred is still interested in water distribution systems. He becomes one of the main shareholders in the ?Compagnie d'Aqueduc Hébertville-Saint-Bruno? in the Lac-Saint-Jean region. After his death, the water distribution system of Andréville will remain the property of his family until its purchase by the municipality in 1964.

29

Georges Roy, known as Desjardins, and the children
1910 - 1919
Saint-André de Kamouraska (Québec), Canada

Credits:
The Collection of the Musée régional de Kamouraska
The Desjardins Family Private Collection
Photographer: Éva Roy, known as Desjardins
N.A.C. P2007.6

30

In 1919, death strikes him another blow. His brother Georges, who has always been very close to him, dies. Georges, a bachelor, was then living in the home of his niece Éva, Charles-Alfred's daughter. It must be mentioned that Alexis Darisse, Éva's husband, has to be out of the region quite often to represent the company, especially in the western provinces. Georges' presence is therefore a protection for his niece and her children. This man, possessed of a legendary good humour is also recognized for his strength. He was able to move a complete uprooted tree or to break a penny in two. He apparently caught pneumonia while enjoying one of his favourite pastimes, fishing off the wharf of Saint-André.

31

Georges Roy, known as Desjardins, at the Syndicat des cultivateurs (Farmers' Union)
Around 1915
Saint-André de Kamouraska (Québec), Canada

Credits:
The Anne Laporte Collection
Photographer: Éva Roy, known as Desjardins

32

A metal plaque of the Desjardins Company
First half of the 20th century
Saint-André de Kamouraska (Québec), Canada

Credits:
The Collection of the Musée régional de Kamouraska

33

The layout of the Desjardins Company Factory
1910-1930
Saint-André de Kamouraska (Québec), Canada

Credits:
The Hélène Fillion Martin Collection
Artist: Unknown

34

The Desjardins Company runs into difficulties following the departure of its founder. After Charles-Alfred's retirement, its new president, Marcellin Pettigrew, benefits from the momentum established by Charles-Alfred's activities. However, things begin to slow down starting in 1920. At that time, Alexis Darisse, Éva's husband, occupies the positions of vice-president and manager. He disagrees with the vision of certain administrators, one of whom is the president, and resigns in 1925. Marcellin Pettigrew, seeing disaster looming, does the same thing in 1927. Finally, this once prosperous company is declared bankrupt in July 1931. Even if he has not held any shares in the company for a long time, it is a hard blow for Charles-Alfred who had built the company up from scratch.

35

Spiritual Bouquet for the founder of the Convent of Saint-André
4 November 1931
Saint-André de Kamouraska (Québec), Canada

Credits:
The Collection of the Musée régional de Kamouraska
The Desjardins Family Private Collection
Artist : Anonymous
N.A.C. 2006.330

36

Charles-Alfred's social contribution is remarkable, but also remarked on. In 1920, he becomes the ?Grand Knight of Columbus? and three years later receives the title of Commander of the Order of Saint Gregory the Great. This honour is bestowed on him for services rendered to the Church. It must be said that his involvement in the foundation of the Convent of Saint-André, as well as his numerous gifts to Collège Sainte-Anne and to his parish have earned him this recognition and respect.

37

Postcard of the Collège de Sainte-Anne
13 October 1944
La Pocatière (Québec), Canada

Credits:
The Collection of the Musée régional de Kamouraska
Photographer: Raymond Boutet
N.A.C. P1990.131

38

Inside the church of Saint-André de Kamouraska
1900-1930
Saint-André de Kamouraska (Québec), Canada

Credits:
The Collection of the Musée régional de Kamouraska
The Desjardins Family Private Collection
Photographer: Unknown
N.A.C. P2005.198

39

Inside the private chapel of Charles-Alfred Roy, known as Desjardins
Around 1925
Saint-André de Kamouraska (Québec), Canada

Credits:
Collection of Isabelle Poyau and Yvon Robert
Photographer: Unknown

40

In 1922, Charles-Alfred asks Alphonse Bélanger to build an addition to his house. Actually, it is to be a space for a private chapel. Indeed, the years spent with his devout wife Émilie have brought him closer to the Catholic Church. However, rheumatism causes him great suffering and he wants to have a place near at hand where he can pray and meditate. The title of commander allows him to have daily Mass said in this chapel. He invites families from all different social classes to attend the daily celebration of Mass.