Did you know that Rue Mazard owes its existence to a hat maker? Welcome to Rue Mazard in Lyon. This street in the Ainay district has a fascinating story. It is linked to a man who revolutionized hat-making.
Etienne Mazard was born in 1660. He died in 1736. Mazard was a merchant. He brought the use of beaver fur from London. This fur was for making hats. His hats became very popular. He even sold them in Paris and abroad. He shipped boxes of goods to a shipowner in Bordeaux.
When Mazard retired his fortune was about 560000 pounds. In 1735 he donated to the hospital of the Charity of Lyon. He gave 150000 francs. This was to provide thirty-three poor young girls with a dowry every year. In 1808 the annuity was reduced by a third. This meant the donation was only made every three years.
Rue Mazard was officially named in 1835. This commemorated Mazard’s contribution. The street connects Rue de la Charité and Quai du Docteur-Gailleton. Today it is a zone 30 road. It has two-way cycling. Parking is allowed on both sides.
The street’s architecture is consistent. It features 19th-century buildings. These buildings have four floors. The style is generally sober. Some balconies add character. Look between numbers 6 and 8. There you’ll see a facade with a large round entrance.
Across the street number 1 opens with a wide door. Number 3 is unique. It has two metal and glass structures. They extend from the second and fourth-floor balconies.
The land where Rue Mazard stands was reclaimed. This was done by the Perrache company. They completed embankment work in the late 18th century. The street emerged in the early 19th century. It has remained largely unchanged since then.
Today Rue Mazard is home to various activities. At number 1 an association organizes international RIT meetings. Atelier 7 offers painting courses. The Christian Assembly of Pentecost invites people to meetings.
Henriette Morel had her studio at 1 Rue Mazard. She was an artist. She was born in Villeurbanne in 1883. She died there in 1956.
Rue Mazard also features shops. There are two carpet stores. One stamp shop is there. One ceramics shop exists here. You will also find a bar here. There is also a home assistance service. Four companies are located here.
So Rue Mazard is more than just a street. It is a reminder of Etienne Mazard. He was a hat maker who helped Lyon. His legacy lives on. It is not just in the street’s name. It is also in the acts of charity. These acts transformed the lives of young women. Take a moment to appreciate this street’s rich history.