Norm was born in 1940 and is a life-long resident of Biddeford. His mother came here from Québec, as did his paternal great-grandfather.
From the time he was 10 years old, until he retired at age 70, he served the community in the grocery business. Most of that time was at Sevigny’s Market, located on Bradbury Street. He has also played a key role in the city’s La Kermesse Franco-American Festival.
“I never, never thought of leaving Biddeford. Its where my ancestors are. Its where I’m going to be.”
Norm and his wife, Connie, have three daughters and a son.
NORMAN SEVIGNY
INTERVIEW DETAILS
Date of Interview: May 11, 2019
Location: Sevigny residence, Biddeford Maine
Interviewer: Nicole Morin-Scribner
Transcriber: Nicole Morin-Scribner
SELECTED INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
Memories of attending school at St. Joseph’s. “I skipped the second grade. There were so many kids they had to switch them around.”
Playing football at St. Louis for Coach Cote.
Ethnic character of different neighborhoods.
The history of Sevigny’s Market, which served the community for 48 years, 1950-1998. “In those days, the population around the store was getting old and we used to deliver right to the house.”
The highlights and challenges of running a local grocery store during that time.
Transition from running his own small business to working for a larger chain grocery store.
Involvement with La Kermesse
DEMOGRAPHICS
Birthplace: Biddeford, Maine
Education: St. Joseph Grammar School
St. Louis High School
Ethnic Identification: Franco American