FAMILY HISTORY

Joseph Karre is a descendant of several individuals whose remarkable achievements have left lasting legacies in Louisiana and throughout the Middle East. His lineage traces back to Jean Mouton, his 5th great-grandfather, who is considered the "Founder of Lafayette." Born in 1754 in Nova Scotia, Jean Mouton established Vermilionville, now known as the City of Lafayette. After settling in Louisiana with his family in 1765, Mouton became a successful cattleman and sugar planter, contributing greatly to the region's development. His legacy in the community endures, particularly through his 1821 donation of five acres to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lafayette, which later became the site of the historic Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist.

Karre's 4th great-grandfather, former US Senator Alexandre Mouton, was a prominent political figure and the 11th Governor of Louisiana, as well as the first Democratic governor in the state's history. His expansive land holdings during the mid-1800s included over 20,000 acres, a vast portion of what would become modern-day Lafayette. A Georgetown College graduate, Mouton also had a notable career in the Louisiana House of Representatives where he served as Speaker from 1831 to 1832. Mouton’s political career and influence helped shape the direction of Louisiana during a pivotal time in its history.

From the Moutons of Louisiana to the Saloom and Boustany families of Lebanon, Joseph Karre’s ancestors carry an impressive array of accomplishments. His great-great-grandfather, Racheed Saloom, was among the first Lebanese immigrants to settle in Acadiana, helping establish a Lebanese community that has had a lasting cultural and economic impact on the region. Racheed’s business acumen allowed his family to flourish, ultimately leading to the development of landmarks such as Kaliste Saloom Road, a major thoroughfare in Lafayette named after his nephew.

Joseph’s great-grandfather, Alfred Boustany, and great-uncle, Frem Boustany, further built on this entrepreneurial legacy. Alfred founded Boustany's Department Store in 1920 and played a key role in keeping Lafayette's economy afloat during the Great Depression. From 1929 to 1939, Alfred Boustany backed the City of Lafayette redeeming "scrips" which were given to city employees in lieu of money because of lack of finances. The Boustany brothers purchased Huval Baking Company, makers of the iconic Evangeline Maid Bread. Frem Boustany’s contributions to the Lafayette community were vast, from his leadership in civic organizations like the Kiwanis Club and American Red Cross, to his efforts in preserving local history and donating land for the Women’s and Children’s Hospital. Boustany’s influence extended into sports as well, where he served as president of the Evangeline League and founded the Evangeline Downs Race Track. His philanthropic work earned him numerous accolades, including the Lafayette Civic Cup and a knighthood from Pope John Paul II.

Karre is also connected to the Middle East through his 2nd cousin, Emile Bustani, a prominent Lebanese industrialist, entrepreneur and politician. Bustani, who graduated from MIT with a degree in engineering, founded Beirut’s Contracting & Trading Co. (CAT), which became one of the largest Arab-owned enterprises, employing thousands and operating in multiple countries. His company was responsible for constructing infrastructure across the Arab world including roads, oil pipelines, schools, hospitals, airports and palaces. He played a key role in the early development of Abu Dhabi, initiating the modernization process that transformed the region. Bustani tragically died in a plane crash in 1963, leaving behind a legacy as one of the wealthiest and most influential figures in the Middle East.

This rich family history of public service, business innovation and civic leadership stretches from Louisiana to the Middle East, marking Joseph Karre as a descendant of individuals who have shaped communities and economies across the globe.