“General who?” many might ask when first hearing the name of this street. Rue du Général Leclerc bears a name echoing liberation and remembrance. This street is not just a path but a historical journey through Issy-les-Moulineaux. It whispers tales of war, peace, and transformation.
Once, this very road was part of Rue Renan. That changed after World War II. The decision was made to honor Philippe de Hauteclocque. He is better known as General Leclerc. Leclerc played a vital role in liberating Paris in August 1944. His division courageously traversed this area. The name change immortalizes his contribution. Later, Leclerc was elevated to the dignity of Marshal.
Even before Leclerc’s heroic actions, the street had witnessed centuries of history. An ancient path once curved along the area below the slopes. Issy village has overlooked it since the Middle Ages. You can still see the curve. Look at the elegant concavity of the building at number 17. Notice the angle between buildings 16 and 18. In the 17th century, this road led to grand estates. Marguerite de Valois, a queen, was its most famous resident.
Rue du Général Leclerc holds a unique distinction. It is the only road connecting two town halls. One was erected in 1857 on Place Vaillant-Couturier. The other is the current Hôtel de Ville inaugurated in 1895.
This street has been served by two metro stations since 1934. These are Corentin Celton and Mairie d’Issy, on line 12.
Many official buildings line Rue du Général Leclerc. At number 4, you will find Espace Savary. Architect E. Delaire built it in 1910. It originally housed the Voltaire B elementary school for girls. The school is gone after a renovation. However, the Inspection de l’Éducation Nationale has kept its offices here. The Maison du Combattant also occupies space here. The building features light beige bricks. Red discharge arches sit above the windows. Wrought iron monograms “I” and “M” represent the town’s name. These monograms are placed above a pale green ceramic floral design.
The Hôtel de Ville has existed since 1895. It largely corresponds to a luxurious residence. Architect Boullée constructed it in 1760-1773 on the fief of la Gentillesse. Nicolas Beaujon, a financier, owned it. In the 19th century, the building became a school for girls. It was called the Couvent des Oiseaux. Louis Bonnier transformed it into the town hall in 1895.
Residential buildings display diverse architecture along Rue du Général Leclerc. The oldest is at number 1, built in 1892 by architect Laloux. Other stone buildings from the Belle Époque stand at numbers 61 and 59.
Many shops have graced this street over the years. Marouteau, founded in 1875, is the oldest business. It specializes in plumbing and roofing. Some businesses have been here since the early 20th century. These include butcher shops at numbers 1 and 61. A pharmacy at number 11 has been operating since at least the 1930s.
As you continue down Rue du Général Leclerc, remember its layered history. From ancient paths to royal residents to wartime heroes, this street encapsulates Issy’s story. It is a place where the past and present intertwine.