“Who was André Lèon Chalopin?” That’s the question that lingers as we stand here on Rue Chalopin. This street is more than just a passage. It’s a tribute to a man who embodied the spirit of service and sacrifice.
Let’s delve into the story of Rue Chalopin. It’s a story intertwined with Lyon’s urban development and the life of an extraordinary individual.
Originally, this street was known as Rue Sainte-Jeanne. It was opened in the mid-19th century. This opening was part of the Félissent development, around 1827. The street’s path was solidified by 1847, connecting Rue des Trois-Pierres, now Rue Reinach, and Rue Félissent, now Rue Montesquieu.
The extension of Rue Sainte-Jeanne was facilitated by Claude Brouchoud in 1858. He ceded land to the city. This allowed the street to reach Rue Saint-Michel. There were plans for it to become an extension of Avenue de Saxe. However, those plans were scrapped in 1860.
In 1896, the street stretched north to Grande Rue de la Guillotière. The city acquired the Coquier-Grept building. They exchanged land with architect Curny. It was a period of rapid urbanization. Most buildings here are quite old. The building at number 11 is dated 1931. It is one of the newest on Rue Chalopin.
Then, in 1916, the street was renamed Rue Chalopin. This renaming honored André Léon Chalopin. He was a teacher and unionist. He died on the front lines in 1914.
André Lèon Chalopin was born in 1885. He died on October 30, 1914. He died in Monchy on the Artois front. Chalopin was not only a teacher but also a trade unionist. His name appears in an anthology of writers who died in the war.
As you look around, notice the architecture of Rue Chalopin. The buildings lining the street are simple. They range from one to five stories. The street is relatively narrow and straight. The buildings vary in style. You’ll see small houses, buildings, and former workshops. Many have been converted into apartments. Some doorways have become garages.
At the corner of Rue Saint Michel, observe the converted factory now used as garages. Some older buildings showcase ironwork and stone frames. Number 11 stands out with its two projections and rounded door. The facade is signed FD.
On the west side, before Rue de la Thibaudière, the houses have been cleaned. This cleaning reveals their original stones. Opposite, a small workshop features a glass facade framed in metal. Don’t miss number 43 with its original pediment facade. Number 45 is set back with a garden. Its gate aligns with the street. Also, look for a small hand knocker at number 42.
Even during the war, Rue Chalopin played a role. An underground printing press operated at number 23. Today, Rue Chalopin is a blend of residential and commercial spaces. You’ll find a luthier specializing in guitars. Fanny Grué restores sculptures. She even worked on the sculptures of the cathedral clock in 2024.
Rue Chalopin is a testament to Lyon’s evolving urban landscape. It also honors a man of principle. André Lèon Chalopin’s legacy lives on in the name of this street. It reminds us of the dedication and sacrifice of those who came before us.