02/21/2022
A tribute to Paul. C. Daiute
_On January 7, 2022, Paul C. Daiute of Hallowell, Maine passed away. Les Mousquets du roi are saddened because it is a re-enactor who greatly inspired them. Here is a testimonial by a member of the group._
“Paul C. Daiute, a seasoned re-enactor, an affable and generous man, interpreted for many years, voluntarily but with immense skill and always in period costume, historical characters from New England. His portrayal of a 17th-century coastal Maine cod fisherman remains memorable.
This name alone evokes an extraordinary human and professional encounter!
Paul was a reserved man but passionate about audiences and history. He knew, as few can, how to popularize the ancient history of Atlantic North America. Accompanied by his good friend Mike Dekker, Paul generously illustrated the stages of cod fishing, dressing and conservation. It was an exceptional example of impeccable popularization, accompanied by a flawless representation of the associated material culture. This historical interpretation is among the best I have ever seen in 35 years of interpretive work and research in material culture! And by far!
In short, a summary of knowledge, of know-how, of know how to tell, of know how to show, and, above all at all times, of know to be! It was a privilege to have met such a man.
His kindness and humanity will be greatly missed during my future stays in Pemaquid, Maine. My thoughts go especially to his brother Mark and his colleagues in historical re-enactment.
Bon voyage on the Grand Banks of Eternity, Paul!
Emmanuel Nivon"
Photo (detail) by Jim MacDonald, 2021
