Perrault, Joseph François

(1753-1844). Born in Quebec, the son of a rich merchant trading with New England and the West Indies. Given the appointment of prothonotary in Quebec, and held it throughout his life. Took a deep interest in educational matters; founded a number of schools on the Lancaster system; and is regarded in Quebec as the father of the provincial school system. Also did much, both by his writings and by furthering the establishment of model farms, to place agriculture upon a better and more scientific basis. Bib. : Biographie de Joseph François Perrault écrite par Lui-Même, à l'Age de Quatre-Vingt Ans, sans Lunettes ; Casgrain, Vie de Joseph François Perrault ; Bender, Old and New Canada . For list of his writings, see Casgrain's work mentioned above.