Joan Perrault

Author

Julie M. Luker, Concordia University, St. PaulFollow

Files

Interviewee

Joan Perrault

Interviewer

Cole Steinberg

Transcriber

Landmark Associates

Generation

Baby Boom Generation (1946-1964)

Neighborhood

Multiple Saint Paul

Document Type

Oral History

Date of Interview

7-1-2022

Keywords

Multiple Saint Paul, Dayton's Bluff, Roseville, Saint Paul, 1950

Disciplines

Oral History | Psychology

Abstract

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Joan Perrault is a Caucasian female born on July 22, 1950. She lived with her family in the Dayton's Bluff neighborhood until fourth grade, after which they moved to Roseville. Her father was a police officer. Her mother was a stay-at-home mom. She grew up Catholic. SUBJECTS DISCUSSED: Perrault describes the two neighborhoods she grew up in. In the Dayton's Bluff neighborhood, she recounted fond memories of this neighborhood, including large birthday parties, walking to Sacred Heart Catholic school with her elder brother, and enjoying the company of many friends. In the Roseville neighborhood, Perrault describes a vibrant community where children played freely, neighbors engaged in daily coffee gatherings, and engaged in religious customs. She shares intersections of world events and her personal life. Reflecting on the economic status of her childhood, Perrault notes that despite their limited means, they often found creative ways to enjoy life. She shares stories of ways they had fun and saved money. Perrault shares her early memories of how deeply ingrained her religion was to her life. She goes on to talk about an issue with their church and how their family gave up on religion. In the next section, Perrault goes on to describe and share more stories of the two neighborhoods she grew up in. In speaking on values, she shares the values held rooted in religious belief and the Ten Commandments. She shares some of the recreational activities her family engaged in such as beach visits, drive-in theaters, and picnics. Perrault describes her schooling. She contrasts her private Catholic school days with her time in public school. She talked about the struggles that came with the strict environment of Catholic school. After a period of adaptation, she found a better fit in public schooling. Lastly, in reflecting on local and global issues Perrault describes being sheltered from world events. She talks about developing more awareness of issues over time. She describes her struggles with those same protective instincts when it comes to raising her own children.

Copyright

All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced without the written permission of Concordia University Library or Julie Luker, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, St. Paul.

Recommended Citation

Luker, Julie M., "Joan Perrault" (2022). Saint Paul and Surrounding Area. 68.
https://digitalcommons.csp.edu/tc-ohp_interviews_stp/68