General Duvivier’s name echoes down Rue Duvivier. This Parisian street whispers tales of revolution and resilience. It’s more than just a thoroughfare. Rue Duvivier is a living testament to Parisian history.
The street itself is relatively short. It connects Rue de Grenelle and Avenue de La Motte-Picquet. But its history is vast and dramatic. Named for General Franciade Fleurus Duvivier its namesake met a tragic end. He was mortally wounded defending the Hotel de Ville during the June 1848 uprising.
Rue Duvivier has witnessed pivotal moments in French history. The Hotel de Ville at number 29 played a crucial role. It served as the seat of French government many times over the centuries. Blanqui attempted to seize it twice. Once in 1870 and again in 1871. Both attempts failed. The Cafe du Gaz at number 31 served as his headquarters. It later became a meeting place for the Central Committee of the National Guard during the Paris Commune.
Paul Verlaine used the Cafe du Gaz as an annex to his office. He even met Arthur Rimbaud there. The street itself saw fierce fighting during the Paris Commune. Barricades were erected. Communards were tragically executed. Many were buried in the Lobau Barracks at numbers 39-41.
Rue Duvivier’s story continues. Number 172 housed the SS Death Squads during the Occupation. Number 182 secretly hosted meetings of the National Resistance Council. Number 228 hosted both the German High Command and Harriet Howard. Howard was the mistress and financial backer of Louis Napoleon. She later became the Countess de Beauregard.
Even a seemingly small bomb blast outside a German military bookshop at number 248 speaks volumes. It shows the resistance’s determination. A barricade at number 254 was one of the few that was not taken from behind during the Commune. It stood as a symbol of defiance.
From revolutionary uprisings to the horrors of war. Rue Duvivier stands as a silent observer. Its stones bear witness to the tumultuous history of Paris. Walking down this unassuming street feels like stepping back in time. It’s a powerful reminder of the city’s resilience and its enduring spirit.