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Welcome to the Libeau Descendents Inc website!
A brief history:
On March 15 1840 the Comte de Paris sailed from Rochefort France, heading for Banks Peninsula in New Zealand.
Joseph Libeau (1807 - 1883)
Passengers included Joseph Libeau and his wife Magdeleine as well as three children.
On August 17 1840 the anchor was dropped in Akaroa harbour. The English ship had already arrived only three days earlier.
In Akaroa another six children were born to Joseph and Magdeleine, one child died only days after birth. Joseph remarried in 1852 to Mary Ann Hedgman with an additional eight children being born.
Original home of Joseph Libeau 1899.
Some of the original buildings that were built by Joseph Libeau still stand and can be found in Rue Grehan. Society members are more than happy to point them out.
In Akaroa a number of the grave sites of the family that landed can also be found.
On the August 17 1990 the 150 year commemoration was held.
Book on the Libeau Family - Can you help?
With the support of the Libeau Descendants Society, we are currently researching for a book on the early generations of the Libeau Family who came to NZ in 1840. The book will look at where they came from and the lives of the first 3-4 generations after settlement in NZ from 1840 to 1920.
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Libeau Family Landmarks
View Larger Map
There is an additional map available to members highlighting 30 Libeau family landmarks of historical significance.
Up Coming Events
- AGM (NI) - 21st of June, Cambridge
- Bastille Day - 14th of July
- Landing Day - 17th of August
- French Fest - 10th to 12th of October
This page was last changed on 06/06/2008.