Marie-Geneviève-Sophie Masson

Marie-Geneviève-Sophie Masson (née Raymond; October 6, 1798 – November 30, 1882) was a Canadian philanthropist and aristocrat from Quebec who served as seigneuress of Terrebonne from 1847 to 1883.

The Sophie Masson Bridge between Laval and Terrebonne, and Sophie Masson Park in Terrebonne, bear her name.

Biography Baptised on October 6, 1798, Geneviève Sophie Raymond was the daughter of Jean-Baptiste Raymond, then aged 40, merchant and businessman, future Member of Parliament (MP) for Huntingdon. Her mother was Marie-Clotilde Girardin.

She succeeded her husband Joseph Masson at the head of the seigneury, she developed its industry, notably that of the . She had the macadam road network and the first bridge built in Terrebonne, established the seigneurial office, built a large manor house, known as , and founded the Terrebonne college. She also financed social works, had the , a convent and the presbytery built on land that she donated.

She died in Terrebonne on November 30, 1882.

Namesakes

Sophie Masson Bridge over Rivière des Mille Îles between Laval and Terrebonne Sophie Masson Park in Terrebonne The Sophie, Joseph Masson's ship