Séverin Lachapelle

Séverin Lachapelle, born Pierre-Alphonse-Séverin on September eighteenth, eighteen fifty, in Saint-Rémi, Canada East, was a multifaceted individual who made significant contributions as a physician, educator, and political figure in Quebec. The son of Léon Lachapelle and Rébecca Lanctôt, he received his education at the Petit Séminaire de Montréal before embarking on a career that would intertwine medicine and politics.

After serving as a papal zouave from eighteen sixty-eight to eighteen seventy, Lachapelle pursued his medical studies at the Montreal School of Medicine and Surgery. He established his practice in Saint-Constant before relocating to Saint-Henri. In eighteen seventy-four, he married Elise Demers and later served as the mayor of Saint-Henri from eighteen eighty-six to eighteen eighty-seven, showcasing his commitment to public service.

In addition to his political endeavors, Lachapelle was a prolific writer and educator. He contributed to the monthly L’Union médicale du Canada and served on its editorial board. His notable works include the Manuel d’hygiène à l’usage des écoles et des familles ..., published in eighteen eighty-eight, which was translated into English in eighteen ninety-one. He also played a pivotal role in founding the Hôpital Sainte-Justine in nineteen oh seven and was instrumental in establishing the Gouttes de Lait program in Montreal, aimed at reducing infant mortality.

Lachapelle's political career peaked when he was elected to the House of Commons representing Hochelaga as a Conservative member from eighteen ninety-two to eighteen ninety-six. Despite his defeat in subsequent elections, his legacy continued through his advocacy for children's health and hygiene. He passed away in Montreal at the age of sixty-two and was laid to rest in Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery.