About 1933-34 my dad Albert and my Uncle Sam came to the Island to explore what opportunities might exist here. I am told that there was some discussion between them and Nemir Tweel as to the possibility of a joint business venture. There was some disagreement and they gave up on the idea and went back to Quebec. At that time, my mother’s sister Mary (Joseph Kays) was living in Charlottetown. She was anxious to have my mother move to the Island and I think my mother was anxious to come. If it was up to my father, I think they would have stayed in St. Paul. I remember my father remarking on several occasions that his happiest years were the ones he spent in Quebec. It was either a move to Montreal or to Charlottetown. Both cities had a large Lebanese community in contrast to St. Paul where we were the only family.

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IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII our church in St Damien Quebec

In 1960 driving home on our way back from Albert and Yvonne Weatherby’s wedding in Montreal, Mom, Dad and I decided to visit St. Damien and St. Paul since we were in the general area. It was 25 years since we had moved from St Paul to Charlottetown and

there were still many people that my parents could remember. Especially moving was when we arrived at the store and home where we lived. When we went into the store and identified ourselves, the lady behind the counter began to cry with joy and excitement. She recalled coming into the store when my father operated it and used to buy candy for a penny. My parents called on a few neighbors, shed many tears and reminisced over the old days. It was a real experience and I was so glad that we made the visit.

Joe, Yvonne and Abe Dad — Albert Zakem St. Paul Quebec early 1930’s

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