March 22, 2023

Chicopee author publishes new book about French Canadian immigrants

REGIONAL
Staff report

CHICOPEE – Marie Proulx-Meder, author of Many Faces, One Mary: Discovering Homegrown Gardens and Shrines of Our Lady, a book featuring Mary gardens of local residents in western and central Massachusetts, has recently published a new book, Growing Up French – A Collection of Franco-American Interviews.

The new book focuses on the story of French-Canadians who entered the United States between 1840 and 1930. Proulx-Meder spent five years interviewing 23 Franco-Americans, including well-known international songstress Josée Vachon.

“Their personal stories provide insight into what life was like growing up French in New England,” said Proulx-Meder, who lives in Chicopee. The book includes historical information and cultural traditions, and also features color photographs, which bring the stories to life.

“I thought the book may be of interest to the large number of Franco-Americans in our area, many of whom spoke of their faith and devotion to the church,” Proulx-Meder said. “Several of the people I interviewed belonged to local parishes in Springfield, Chicopee, and Holyoke.”

“This book was written to celebrate, acknowledge, and embrace the rich heritage of our forefathers and to help to maintain French culture and traditions, thereby preserving the past for future generations,” she said.

Growing Up French, a book of Franco-American lives, history, and traditions, is available for purchase at a special introductory price of $20 by contacting Marie Proulx-Meder at frenchconnection104@gmail.com or 413-592-4946.