Auguste Dupuis (1839-1922), a gentleman

Auguste Dupuis was described by all who knew him as cultivated, courteous and generous. Perhaps it was these qualities that enabled him to marry twice. In 1860, he married Amarylis Boisseau (1837-1907). They had no children. Three years after Mrs. Boisseau’s death, he married Mathilde Lavoie (1842-1918), for whom Dupuis was the third husband. Due to their age, they did not have any children of their own.

The Dupuis’ adopted their nephew, Albert Verreault Dupuis, whose mother was Auguste’s sister. Young Albert was soon introduced to arboriculture by his uncle, with the result that he eventually inherited Pépinière Dupuis and was in charge of it at the time of his uncle’s death. Auguste Dupuis definitely loved children, as he grew lots of currents and hired children to pick them. A visitor once asked him if the children caused him any problems. His answer was quick and sincere.

Oh, No! I employ everyone who wants to help with the picking, and once the main crop is harvested, I allow them to glean what’s left for themselves. That way, I avoid any problems.