“L’intègre,” they called him. This is Avenue Emmanuel Allard. This avenue is named after a man of great integrity. Emmanuel Auguste Allard was born in Marseille in 1833. He died here in 1910. He lived a life dedicated to this city.
Allard’s story began humbly. His father was a mason. Allard was born on Place Bernard Dubois. It was near the Gare Saint-Charles. He started as a lithographer’s apprentice. After twelve years, he founded his own printing business in 1859.
Allard entered politics as a Republican. He opposed the Empire. In 1871, he won a seat on the city council. By 1881, he was the deputy to Mayor Brochier. Disagreements led him to resign in 1882.
He returned to the council in 1884. Then, he became mayor on May 16th. Marseille faced a cholera epidemic immediately. Allard acted swiftly. On June 20th, he suggested using the Palais du Pharo as a cholera hospital. The commission agreed. Preparations were made quickly. The first patients arrived on June 26th.
Allard was a radical. He often clashed with moderates, socialists, and monarchists. Yet, his political skill allowed him to mediate disputes. He governed effectively.
His honesty earned him the nickname “l’intègre”. He even became a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor. However, his first term was cut short. In 1887, the government dissolved the city council. The excuse was the anniversary of the Commune.
Allard returned to politics in 1902. He joined Amable Chanot’s list. In 1908, he became mayor again at the age of 75. The council was split. The decision fell to him because of his age. He won by one vote.
He appointed the socialist Clément Lévy as his deputy. Together, they managed the city effectively. Sadly, Allard contracted bronchitis in 1910. He never recovered. He died in office on August 2nd, 1910. The city mourned him with a grand funeral.
Emmanuel Allard died at 7 a.m. He was at 50 Rue Nationale. It was not far from his printing shop. There, in 1871, he was asked to serve the city.
This avenue commemorates his service. It is a reminder of his dedication. He was a printer, a politician, and a mayor. Most importantly, he was “l’intègre”. As you walk along Avenue Emmanuel Allard, remember the man who served Marseille with integrity. He left a lasting legacy on this city.