October 2007

A copy of the book “Voyages: A Franco-American Reader” was presented to French President Nicolas Sarkozy on November 6 at a ceremony at the French Embassy in Washington. The book was co-edited by Barry Rodrigue, Professor of Arts and Humanities at USM’s Lewiston-Auburn College and was presented by Severin Beliveau, honorary French consul for the State of Maine.  Members of Maine’s Congressional delegation were also in attendance.

The 600 page book includes more than 70 contributions: historical essays, short stories, photos, poems and recipes. Some of the book’s contributor’s include local Lewiston artist Mercedes Gastonguay, “Papa Martel” author Gerard Robichaud, and photographer Jere DeWaters. It is a joint venture between the University of Southern Maine’s Franco-American Collection and Tilbury House Publishers.

USM’s Franco-American Collection is the largest repository of Franco-American archival material in the State, with material on history, politics, religion, education, industry, business, theater and music. The Collection preserves a large collection of documents, news clippings, photographs, and artifacts about Franco-American history and culture.  In addition, the Collection houses the Madeleine Giguere Reading Room, which includes a large selection of books concerning the French presence in North America. 

The book is available for purchase at USM’s Lewiston-Auburn Bookstore as well as in other bookstores and online. For more information about purchasing the book you may contact USM’s Franco-American Collection at 207-753-6545 or email franco@usm.maine.edu

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