George Stephenson’s name echoes through time on this very street. Rue Stephenson stands as a testament to engineering innovation. It is a tribute to a visionary. This street in Lille, France, bears the name of the English engineer George Stephenson. He built the first locomotive. He also helped design the Paris-Nord railway line to Lille.
Originally, this area was not always part of Paris. In the early 19th century, this street was part of the commune of La Chapelle. Back then, it was known as Rue des Cinq-Moulins. The name came from a nearby hill with five windmills. Imagine the landscape dotted with these iconic structures. The street initially started at Rue Doudeauville. It ended in a cul-de-sac north of Rue de Jessaint.
Later, the street was extended to Rue de Jessaint. This extension was declared a public utility. In 1859, La Chapelle became part of Paris. By 1863, the street was officially recognized as part of the Parisian road network. Only later, the street was renamed Rue Stephenson. This honored the great engineer and his contributions to railway development.
In 1885, a journalist described Rue Stephenson. The street was located in one of the most populated and lively areas of Paris. The area bustled with activity and energy. Near the end of the 19th century, Rue Stephenson grew longer. It stretched north of Rue Doudeauville to Rue Ordener. It cut through Passage Doudeauville. At the same time, it was extended south via Rue de Tombouctou. Some buildings were even torn down. This made way for Rue Jean-François-Lépine.
Let’s jump ahead to the 20th century. In 1910, number 28 Rue Stephenson held a large vacant lot. Three sheds stood there. They belonged to a scrap metal merchant. Fast forward to the 21st century. Rue Stephenson made a cameo in the 2018 film Deux Moi. The movie features two main characters living in neighboring buildings on the street. One building actually exists. The other was recreated in 3D.
So, as you walk along Rue Stephenson, remember its layered past. Think of the windmills. Picture the bustling crowds. Envision the film set. This street embodies progress. It honors the past while embracing the present.