Beneath the surface of Lyon’s bustling streets lies Rue Auguste Isaac. It is an impasse that whispers tales of industry and civic duty. Today, we explore this small street and the man it commemorates. Auguste Isaac was a prominent figure in Lyon’s history.
Rue Auguste Isaac is located off Rue de Saint Cyr. It is on the west side near the Rochecardon crossing. Pedestrians can access it next to the roadway at 65 Rue de Saint Cyr. The street provides access to a small estate. The southern building is noticeable from Rue de Saint Cyr. It features a colorful fresco by Bottazzi. Two buildings resemble books opened onto Rue Auguste Isaac. Their covers face Rue de Saint Cyr.
Who was Auguste Isaac? He was born in Roubaix on September 6, 1849. He died in Lyon on March 23, 1938. At the time of his death, he lived at 12 Quai Sarrail. Auguste Isaac arrived in Lyon at the age of ten. He studied at the Lycée Ampère. He succeeded his father as head of the textile company Dognin. Later, he became an administrator for PLM and the Suez Canal. Auguste Isaac served as president of the Lyon Chamber of Commerce. He also headed the Fabrique. This was a federation of silk manufacturers. His influence stretched far beyond the textile industry.
Auguste Isaac was a member of the Lyon Academy. He also served as Minister of Commerce in 1920. In 1916, he created the “Prix du Septième Fils”. This prize rewarded families with seven sons. It was awarded until 1948. His commitment to family and community was evident throughout his life.
The street itself has an interesting history. Rue Auguste Isaac was opened around the mid-20th century. It coincided with the development of the ICF estate. Archaeological digs from 2009 to 2011 revealed prehistoric artifacts. In 2019, the entire western part of the street was either newly built or renovated.
The ICF is the housing subsidiary of the SNCF. A plaque commemorates its members who died for France between 1939 and 1945. It honors Pierre Boachon, Louis, Suzanne, and Josette Reynaud.
Let’s not forget Auguste Isaac’s family. Philippe Isaac died in battle on September 25, 1915. Jean Isaac Tresca, born in Lyon in 1918, was honored by the President in 2022. He was the last resistant of the Maquis des Glières. Bernadette Isaac Sibille, born in Lyon in 1930, was a prominent Lyon political figure. Cyrille Isaac Sibille, born in Lyon in 1958, has been a deputy for the Rhône since 2017.
Rue Auguste Isaac may be a small street. Yet, it connects us to a rich tapestry of Lyon’s past. It reminds us of Auguste Isaac’s contributions to commerce, industry, and civic life. Take a moment to reflect on the legacy of this remarkable man. Consider how his actions shaped the city we see today.