Can you imagine a street named after a man who helped liberate Lyon? Right here, on Rue Auguste Pinton, we stand on a testament to Auguste Pinton’s bravery and dedication to his city. Rue Auguste Pinton, a relatively recent addition to Lyon’s urban tapestry, having been opened at the turn of the 21st century, stretches between Rue Bataille and Rue Seignemartin. This street isn’t just a collection of buildings. It represents the life and legacy of a remarkable figure who shaped Lyon’s history.
Auguste Pinton, born in Lyon in 1901, was more than just a street name. He was an educator, a Resistance leader, and a politician. He began his career as a teacher, working at La Martinière and Lycée Ampère. But when his city, his country, needed him most, he stepped up. During World War II, Pinton became a key figure in the French Resistance. He was a founder of the Franc-Tireur resistance movement, a pivotal group in the fight against Nazi occupation. This courageous act placed him at great personal risk, but his commitment to freedom never wavered. His involvement was instrumental in Lyon’s liberation in September 1944.
After the war, Pinton’s service continued. He held several important political positions, including Secretary of State for Public Works and Transport, First Deputy Mayor of Lyon, and Senator of the Rhône. He used his influence to shape Lyon’s development, advocating for urban planning projects and social housing initiatives. He even played a role in the decision to build the iconic ocean liner, SS France. While not all his urban development projects were successful, his commitment to improving Lyon is evident. Rue Auguste Pinton, with its mix of modern residential buildings and professional workshops, echoes the dynamic and evolving city that Pinton dedicated his life to serving. The street’s architecture, ranging from the rounded structures of Datafirst to the sleek, white cubes of newer houses, reflects the ongoing transformation of this urban landscape.
Although he held national positions, Lyon remained close to his heart. Pinton continued to serve his city. His legacy extends beyond the street that bears his name. His contributions to Lyon’s liberation and development are woven into the fabric of the city. He died in Lyon in 1984 and is buried in the Croix-Rousse cemetery. As you walk down Rue Auguste Pinton, remember the man behind the name. Remember the teacher who became a Resistance hero and the politician who dedicated himself to rebuilding his beloved city. This street serves as a constant reminder of his courage, his vision, and his enduring commitment to Lyon.