Jardin Baudricourt

Hidden within the vibrant tapestry of Paris’s 13th arrondissement lies Jardin Baudricourt, a tranquil escape from the urban hustle. Did you know this seemingly unassuming park holds a poignant piece of history? Jardin Baudricourt isn’t just a green space. It’s a memorial. At its heart stands a stone monument, a solemn tribute to the Chinese workers and soldiers who perished fighting for France during World War I. These brave individuals, far from their homeland, contributed significantly to the war effort. Many were initially brought to France as laborers, but they answered the call to arms when their adopted country needed them most. The memorial in Jardin Baudricourt, erected in 1998, serves as a poignant reminder of their sacrifice. The monument bears inscriptions in both French and Chinese, a testament to the shared history and enduring bond between the two nations. The inscription reads, “A la mémoire des travailleurs et combattants chinois morts pour la France pendant la Grande Guerre 1914-1918”. This translates to “In memory of the Chinese workers and soldiers who died for France during the Great War, 1914-1918”. Jardin Baudricourt also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the 13th arrondissement. The area is now known as the “Triangle de Choisy,” Paris’s largest Chinatown. Originally, the area was dominated by industry. The Panhard et Levassor car factory, which produced the first Parisian car, stood where towering residential blocks now rise. It employed a sizable number of Chinese immigrant workers in the 1930s, who were among the first to inhabit the 13th. Today, Jardin Baudricourt provides a peaceful sanctuary amidst this vibrant neighborhood. It’s a place to reflect on the sacrifices of the past and appreciate the multicultural present. As you stroll through Jardin Baudricourt, take a moment to contemplate the stone memorial. Remember the courage and sacrifice of those it commemorates. Their story is woven into the fabric of this unique Parisian park, a testament to a shared history and a reminder of the enduring power of remembrance.