Book Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating narrative of 'The Picard Dynasty,' an enthralling historical narrative that unfolds the rich tapestry of one of Oregon’s pioneering Metis families. Drawn from 'Beyond Blue Earth to the French Prairie Volume II', John d'Arc Lorenz III meticulously retraces their lineage all the way back to 1525, to Jean Picard’s life in the quaint commune of Sauvessanges in France. The narrative takes an audacious twist with the seventh generation, where André Picard Sr. and his wife, Marie Bravard, make the bold decision to wave goodbye to the only life they had ever known. Seduced by the promise and allure of the New World, they ventured onto a perilous journey across the Atlantic. Little did they know then that their daring voyage would pave the way for a saga that would intertwine with the very fabric of Oregon’s rich and colorful history. With a deft hand and an eye for detail, Lorenz artfully illustrates the grand odyssey of the Picard family. He documents the intricate mesh of historical events, each acting as a crucible, moulding and shaping the Picard lineage over time. Readers bear witness to André Picard’s remarkable journey, from a modest Hudson Bay Company postmaster to becoming one of Oregon’s first settlers, his life indelibly influencing the destiny of the frontier. Follow the intriguing accounts of Honoré Picard and Celeste Rochbrune as they carve their path through the rapidly evolving landscape of the French Prairie. Experience the resilient spirit of John Adolph Picard as he, along with his siblings, bravely reclaims their indigenous heritage against the backdrop of a society that had forgotten them. In a parallel narrative, Lorenz unveils the trials and tribulations of the Syilx Okanagan and Wallawalla tribes, their destiny profoundly intertwined with that of the Picard family. The narrative reaches a crescendo as it celebrates the life of Mable Picard, a pioneer in her own right. As one of Oregon’s earliest female entrepreneurs, her story is a testament to the relentless spirit of the pioneers, a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. ‘The Picard Dynasty’ seamlessly weaves together four distinct yet interconnected biographies, each recording significant milestones in the family’s evolution, mirroring the rapid development of Oregon itself. Masterfully crafted, this historical narrative serves as a treasure chest of fascinating insights for anyone entranced by Oregon’s dynamic history. 'The Picard Dynasty' is more than a book; it's a compelling journey through time, a riveting exploration of human resilience and tenacity, and an intimate portrait of the pioneers who dared to shape the destiny of a region. Lose yourself in its pages and be part of a story that is as thrilling as it is enlightening.