“Why name a space after two women?” you might ask. The answer lies in Lyon’s rich history of resistance. We are standing at Espace Elisabeth George-Schmitt a tribute to Elisabeth George and her dedication to Lyon.
This space occupies land freed up by Rue Godefroy. It sits in front of 3 Quai de Serbie. The Espace Elisabeth George-Schmitt creates a path for pedestrians and cyclists. It links Pont de Lattre and Rue Duquesne.
Notice the two planters framed with wood. They hold beautiful floral displays. Two maple trees stand tall their leaves turning red in November. Metal structures offer protection at the end of Rue Godefroy’s turnaround area.
The Lyon City Council decided to honor two female members of the resistance from the sixth district on September 23 2019. Elisabeth George was born in Caluire in 1916. She spent her childhood near here at 7 Quai de Serbie.
She studied piano and Polish through Chopin. This led her to join the Polish F2 resistance network. She worked between Lyon and the Massif Central. Elisabeth and her parents were arrested at their home on October 12 1943. She was imprisoned at Montluc then Compiègne and finally Ravensbrück. She was freed in 1945.
Elisabeth married Antoine Schmitt in Lyon in 1952 and became Elisabeth George Schmitt. She lived until 2003. There is also a Place Camille Georges in the second district.
The Brotteaux grid isn’t quite aligned with the Rhône. This creates triangles including Place d’Helvétie. This garden was created in 2015.
The two trees symbolize solidarity. They were planted in 2015 and 2016. They benefited the Foyer Notre Dame des Sans Abri.
You might notice there isn’t a bench. It’s a shame. A bench would let you sit and enjoy the plants. You could admire the facade of Quai de Serbie and the Croix Rousse hill. You can cross the quay to reach the banks of the Rhône.
So as we leave the Espace Elisabeth George-Schmitt remember the brave women who fought for freedom. Their spirit lives on in this small green space.