The Unforgotten Odyssey of Laurent Laurent
A profound journey of a man who ventured beyond the shores of his homeland into the unknown, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
Laurent Laurent’s saga begins in 1718 France, on the “La Duchesse de Noailles “. The ship was accompanied by two other ships – “The Marie” and “La Victoire”. After a three-month voyage, the three ships arrived at Dauphin Island on 25 August 1718.
Upon reaching the shores of Fort Toulouse, Alabama, Laurent joined a community of settlers in carving out a life amidst the untamed wilderness. Through perseverance and resilience, he overcame adversities, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape and the hearts of those around him.
Laurent Laurent’s wife Jeanne Mahou, believed to hail from the Champagne region of France, played a crucial role in Laurent Laurent’s story a pioneer in her own right as one of the early “filles à casette.” Together, they embarked on a journey of resilience and determination, leaving their homeland behind to seek new opportunities in the New World.
Their union bore fruit in the form of three children: Simon, Joseph, and Marie Jeanne, each contributing to the family’s enduring legacy.
Simon Laurent, in particular, made a significant impact by marrying Marguerite Dervain on October 16, 1753. This union became the pivotal point from which all the Laurents in Louisiana trace their lineage.
Laurent’s legacy transcends the confines of time, weaving itself into the fabric of local legend and familial heritage. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of personal histories in understanding the broader tapestry of human existence, urging subsequent generations to cherish and preserve the narratives of their ancestors.
A story that bridges the gap between the past and the present, enriching our understanding of historical events through the lens of individual experiences. As custodians of these tales, we honor the courage and resilience of those who came before us, ensuring that their legacies endure for future generations to cherish and draw inspiration from.
In commemorating Laurent Laurent and others like him, we pay homage to the countless silent heroes whose journeys have shaped the course of history, forging connections between antiquity and the contemporary world. Their stories serve as guiding beacons, illuminating our path forward as we navigate the complexities of an ever-changing world.
Through the interconnected threads of family ties and shared history, the Laurents and their descendants left an indelible mark on the cultural tapestry of Louisiana, embodying the spirit of resilience, innovation, and service that continues to resonate to this day.
Laurent was one of the first names I became aware of after visiting Dubuisson Cemetery, just up-bayou a bit was Laurent Planation (Salman State Park).
Traveling bayou Liberty in Slidell it statrts a Laurent Plantation, Simon Laurent’s trading post. Simon’s father was on the boat with Iberville.
Going down the bayou we find Dubuisson Plantation run by Barba Trepagnier Dubuission then just a short distance from there on the bayou is Marguerite Trepagnier Carriere. Both Barba and Marguerite are daughters of Claude Trepagnier. Both Trepagnier and Laurent travel with Iberville to the Gulf coast.
As did the Dubuisson, Carriere and Cousin names.