Louis A. Boens, proprietor of La Touraine, Tannersville, was born in the north of France, February 8, 1855, son of Augustus and Josephine (de Sainte Roch) Boens. His parents were natives of Belgium, and his father, who was a farmer, died at the age of thirty-eight. His mother was twice married, and had six children, Louis being the eldest by her second husband. Mrs. Boens came to America with five of her children. She spent her last days with her son Louis, dying at the age of fifty-eight.
Louis A. Boens accompanied the family to the United States, first settling in Belport, Long Island, and a year later removing to Hunter. His training in the business of hotelkeeping was begun at the Laurel House, with which he was connected in different capacities for several years. In 1889 he completed and opened La Touraine, which was built and furnished under his personal supervision, and has accommodations for fifty guests. It is a favorite resort for New York people, and has a large patronage. The table is a special feature, and is provided with poultry raised upon the premises.
In 1886 Mr. Boens was united in marriage with Kate Askin. Her parents, John and Mary Askin, who are no longer living, had a family of sixteen children. Mr. Askin was a native of Ireland. He died at the age of eighty years. The Boens family attend the Roman Catholic church. In politics Mr. Boens acts with the Democratic party.