New France Quartermaster

A century and a half before the great French revolution , during the Old Order , the public administration branches began to be controlled by occupants engaged in certain sectors: trade, finance, the police, etc. ^{[1] The} position was introduced by Cardinal Richelieu, although as early as 1581 Henry III approved the position of “chief quartermaster” at court.

The quartermasters only reported to the king, determining their authority and status. In contrast to the governors appointed from the titled nobility, the representatives of the middle class served mainly as quartermasters.

In France itself, the institution of commissariat played an important role in administrative management. According to Pierre Clement, they had to deal with harassment of local officials, their improper performance of official functions and bribery. The quartermaster, within the framework of the councils, had the right to pronounce judicial sentences that were not subject to appeal. Their responsibilities also included monitoring the supply of local prisons and the situation of prisoners there. Prosecutors general informed the quartermaster of all abuses in the province allotted to him. They also had to follow the equipment of the soldiers, and could judge them. In addition to the above, the quartermaster monitored the taxes and infrastructure of his area. ^[2]

The power in New France was exercised by the governor, who had legislative, executive and judicial powers, and the Council of Quebec, founded according to the royal statutes of 1647 and 1648. ^{[3] The} council was supposed to limit the power of the governor, but in reality the governor exerted serious pressure on this authority with his veto power . ^[3] In early 1663, the company of New France was dissolved and New France became a royal possession. ^[3]

In April 1663, a decree was issued introducing changes to the administrative system of the colony. Many powers of the governor passed to the quartermaster and the supreme council ^[3] . The quartermasters who were to receive training in finance, law, and accounting were people who distinguished themselves in the royal service. The quartermaster became responsible for all civil administration. ^{[3] The} Council was established on September 18, 1663. ^[4] Thus, the power in the region became more divided ^[5] .

The quartermasters did not have an agreed term of office, but according to Munro, “the average tenure was eight and a half years.” ^{[6] The} position was not very popular because of the great responsibility and the volume of work, as well as the low salary (12,000 French livres per year). However, those who came to this post considered their appointment a stepping stone to something more, and therefore they tried to conduct business to the benefit of the crown.

According to Munroe, “each quartermaster received explanations from the king about his competence and powers.” ^[7] He was to monitor justice, finances, and law enforcement. The Quartermaster presided over the Supreme Council as a judge. His interests included the police and the militia, commerce, monitoring the position of market prices and currencies, as well as observing the rights of local lordship established by Cardinal Richelieu . However, the official did not have any power over the military forces of the region.

• Talon, Jean