The Lost Code

François Leclerc: Rags to Riches

François Leclerc

Musée L'Aventure Leclerc

At the age of 40, François Leclerc started his own business. With $125 borrowed from his cousin, he bought a horse and cart. The cookie-making company “Frs. Leclerc, manufacturier de biscuits” was established in a small room behind the family house at 165 Arago Street in Québec City. Every morning, Leclerc delivered his piping hot apple jelly sponge cookies to clients. He also sold hardtack in the port of Québec. On this modest foundation, a multinational corporation was built.