Napoleon Bessette and Family

BIRTH:  Unknown
DEATH:  February 21st, 1895 (Lumby)

• Came to Lumby in 1890 with his family.
• Built first Catholic Church in Lumby with son.
• Photo of House.

Napoleon Bessette, better known as "Paul", arrived with his family in Lumby in 1890. Paul and his wife Hortence brought five children with them to White Valley. Napoleon Jr., John, Emma, Lesima and Helena.

When Paul and his family came to White Valley they bought a sawmill from Pierre. With the assistance of his son Nappy, and perhaps John, they produced the "best lumber in the Okanagan." At the same time his son took the time to build a house north of Pierre's house. Napoleon and his son were carpenters and built the first Catholic Church on Pierre's land next to the cemetery in 1893. Napoleon passed away in Vernon on February 21st, 1895.