During the gathering of the JOHNSON family which took place in Carleton in August 1996, I had the privilege to host the activity "Let's Have a Talk." An interesting amount of quality people showed up. The three branches of the family were represented (JOHNSON, JEANSON, and JEANSONNE). Through all the reminiscences, we felt a real sense of pride from all the participants. Not surprisingly, all present members shared souvenirs from families of ten children or more. Geographically, the complete spectrum of the American continent was well represented. We had the chance to relive the Acadian history via the JOHNSON experience in a warm and exciting hour.

The different stories connected very well together to make a portrait of the personality of the family. For instance, FRAN HAMILTON ABBOTT from Campbelton, New Brunswick, was explaining her farm life background. The land represented a major heritage. Her plan to rebuy the land was dismissed by the government. Two times, they expropriated the place where she wanted to live.

ROGER SAVOY and ANN SAVOY from New Brunswick share the strong influence over the years of their grandmother. Born with a club foot, her first communion at twelve years old turned out to be a miracle day. After that day, she walked quite good and she strongly raised a family of twelve through the depression and beyond. Her influence on their father was noticeable. Like ANN said, the girls in the family were encouraged to do whatever they felt like. That sense of freedom is another asset that linked the JOHNSON family.

RENE BOISVERT, who originates from Sanford, Maine, brought three major characteristics of the JOHNSON way of life. He mentioned that the family was always very close, worked hard, and knew how to throw a party.

For ANN JOHNSON DONOVAN, the feeling of family is very important. That's why in Acadian life, anything can be surpassed. She was raised in Mississippi, but the Louisiana influence never left off. As an example, she mentioned the use of French words in family conversation. It shows the struggle and pride of a different approach to life.

Finally, THOMAS JEANSONNE and his father JOSEPH JEANSONNE noted the similarities between the atmosphere in "Gaspésie" and Louisiana. They live in New Orleans. For them, the roots aspect is major. They are proud of their French upbringing. The JEANSONNE parents explained to them what it means to be a Cajun. Older generations lived in Georgia and South Carolina and were treated like slaves. The sense of history never leaves the family. That was the reason for the hatred of "les américains" during that time.

The JOHNSONS, JEANSONS, and JEANSONNES from everywhere know how to have a good time. They worked hard to pave their way through the hard times of life; therefore they more than deserve it.

© 1997-2001 Ann Johnson Donovan. Email: WEBMASTER August 2001

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