Megan Brewer '26 | Honors Classical Archaeology and History major
The skills I gained through my research at Saint Anselm College will be very valuable moving forward with my education and in a later career.
As a Franco-American herself, it was no surprise that Megan Brewer ’26 chose to focus her undergraduate research on a topic that hit very close to home. The Classical Archaeology and History major was captivated by the migration of French-Canadians to the New England region and dedicated her time to learning about the preservation of their culture as immigrants to the United States. Through the Honors Summer Research Fellowship, Brewer was given the opportunity to conduct paid research on this topic. She was also named 2025-2026 Grappone Fellow for her relentless pursuit of self-improvement and determination to share the importance of the humanities with others.
Can you tell us about your Honors Summer Research Fellowship?
My research focused on the role of the Catholic church in the formation of Franco-American communities in New England and Northern New York in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As French-Canadian immigrants migrated to the American northeast in search of employment and political freedoms, they placed a particular emphasis on the retention of their culture, language, and religion against the dominant Anglo-American culture. The phenomenon I studied was known as "la survivance."
What inspired you choose this topic? It’s incredibly specific.
As a student who is Franco-American but not from the Manchester community, I chose to conduct this historical research to gain a broader understanding of the local community. Many of the challenges that French-Canadian immigrants faced 150 years ago are still faced by immigrants in the city today such as a language barrier, the need for fair working conditions, and the right to practice religion as they choose.
Why is it important that this research is conducted?
The history of French-Canadian immigration and Franco-American communities is an incredibly important aspect of the history of New England, yet it is often one that many people don't know about. Having a deeper understanding of the region's history can lead to a deeper appreciation and acknowledgement of these communities today.
What was the most rewarding part of the research process?
Reaching the goals and milestones that I set for myself throughout the research process was incredibly fulfilling. The moments where things just 'click' or I'm presented with material that leads to new ideas have also been extremely rewarding.
How will this research prepare you for life after Saint Anselm?
I hope to attend graduate school after Saint Anselm, so having the opportunity to perform self-directed research like I did this summer was incredibly important and beneficial. It also gave me experience performing scholarly research in French, which is my second language. The skills I gained through this research will be very valuable moving forward with my education and in a later career.