In 1630 New France was populated mainly by men. France recognized that there were threats to its economy from the British
in the south, and set out to grow the colony by encouraging young women to immigrate, marry and populate the young colony.

Between 1634 and 1663 the Company of 100 Associates sponsored young women immigrating to Canada. These 260 young
women were known as Les Filles à Marier. The Company of 100 Associates was disbanded in 1663 and the government of
France took over the governing of the colony. At that time King Louis XIV established a program to bring young female
immigrants to New France. These 768 women were known as Les Filles du Roi.

Who were these women? Contrary to popular belief, these women were not prostitutes. Many were from poor families looking
for a way out of their predicament. These young women were given a choice in marriage, and because men far outnumbered
them, they had plenty of choice. They have fascinating stories—including stories of bigamy, incest, witchcraft and murder!

Dawn and Carol will tell some of their stories and along the way show some of the resources they used to trace their family lines.