Louis Surette
Louis A. Surette (1818–1897) - Master of Corinthian Lodge[edit]
Early Life and Family Background[edit]
Louis A. Surette was born on December 29, 1818, in Sainte Anne Parish, Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia. He was the sixth son of Athanase and Louise (D'Entremont) Surette, prominent members of Acadian society, with roots tracing back to Governor Charles de La Tour of Acadia. Of his twelve siblings, five were deaf mutes, adding a unique dynamic to the family. Surette received an education uncommon for Acadian youth, studying under Rev. Abbé Jean Mande Sigogne for twelve years.
In 1841, he ventured to Boston, where he began working for the mercantile firm Ladd & Hall, which traded with Nova Scotian provinces. In 1846, he launched his own business in Boston, focusing on trade with Acadian and French settlements in Nova Scotia. This venture established his reputation and financial foundation, and his success enabled him to marry Frances Jane Shattuck, daughter of Hon. Daniel Shattuck of Concord, in 1849.
Business Ventures and Commercial Success[edit]
Surette’s business flourished as he capitalized on strong relationships within Nova Scotia’s Acadian communities, meeting a unique market demand for goods between New England and Canada. By operating his own fleet of trading vessels, constructed specifically for coastal trade with Nova Scotia, he expanded his business reach and income considerably. Surette’s influence grew, allowing him to reinvest in shipping, supporting his business ventures for over 27 years.
This wealth granted Surette a prestigious position in the Concord community. His financial success also enabled him to contribute to the local economy and civic projects. His long-standing business not only strengthened the community’s commercial ties but also elevated his social standing.
Civic Engagement and Community Influence[edit]
Surette held several important positions in Concord. He served as Chairman of the Concord Selectmen, was President of the Concord Lyceum for eleven years, and chaired the school committee. During the Civil War, when local currency was in short supply, he took the lead in issuing Lyceum scrip as a form of currency, ensuring that daily commerce could continue smoothly. This scrip circulated freely in Concord until federal fractional currency was issued.
Masonic Journey[edit]
Initiated into Corinthian Lodge on October 29, 1849, Surette became an influential Mason. He was appointed Senior Warden in 1851 and soon took on the role of Master in October of that year. He served as Master for two periods: 1852–1859 and 1864–1867, totaling ten years. During his leadership, Corinthian Lodge saw substantial growth, with membership increasing from fourteen to forty-eight members.
Surette was active in broader Masonic bodies, including the Boston Lodge of Instruction, St. Andrew's Royal Arch Chapter, Boston Council of Royal Masters, and Boston Encampment of Knights Templar. In 1859, he published the *History of Corinthian Lodge*, a detailed account of the Lodge’s history, recognized as a model for lodge histories.
Later Life and Legacy[edit]
Surette continued his community engagement, gaining membership in the New England Historic Genealogical Society in 1861 and the Massachusetts Horticultural Society in 1868. His legacy includes the civic and cultural development of Concord, his significant contributions to Freemasonry, and his commercial successes. Surette passed away on August 2, 1897, and is buried at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Concord, remembered as a cornerstone of the town's civic and Masonic heritage.