Rue Désiré Therby

Désiré Therby. A name whispered on Rue Désiré Therby, a street echoing with the life of a man who dedicated himself to the betterment of Lille’s community. Rue Désiré Therby is more than just bricks and mortar. It stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of a man who rose from humble beginnings to become a prominent figure in Lille’s political and social landscape. Désiré Therby, born in Hellemmes, a commune now part of Lille Métropole, began his career as a railway worker. He wasn’t just pushing papers or laying tracks. He was actively involved in the trade union movement, fighting for the rights of his fellow workers. This passion for social justice led him to join the French Workers’ Party, later becoming a member of the French Section of the Workers’ International (SFIO). His commitment to his community extended beyond the railway. He served on the municipal council of Hellemmes in 1912 and later became deputy mayor in 1919. A defining moment in Therby’s political life came during the split in the socialist movement. While his friend Joseph Hentgès joined the Communist Party, Therby remained loyal to the SFIO. This decision solidified his position as mayor of Hellemmes, a title he held until 1944. Rue Désiré Therby in Lille stands as a tribute to his unwavering commitment to socialist principles. His influence reached beyond the local level. He served as a general councillor for the Lille-Est canton from 1926 to 1936. While holding this position, he continued his involvement with the railway workers’ union, eventually passing the torch to younger activists. Sadly, a stroke silenced Therby in his later years, robbing him of his powerful voice. He passed away in Hellemmes on February 8, 1950. Rue Désiré Therby serves as a reminder of his legacy, a man who dedicated his life to the service of his community and the fight for social justice. As you walk along Rue Désiré Therby, remember the man whose name it bears, a man who embodies the spirit of Lille.