“Pro Patria” is inscribed near a lion’s head. It is a solemn reminder of sacrifice. We are standing before Aux enfants du Rhône défenseurs de la Patrie 1870 Statue. It is commonly called Monument des enfants du Rhône. This monument honors soldiers from Lyon who died in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870.
The Aux enfants du Rhône défenseurs de la Patrie 1870 Statue is located at Place du Général Leclerc. It stands near the entrance to Parc de la Tête d’Or. This entrance is also known as Porte des Enfants du Rhône. The Aux enfants du Rhône défenseurs de la Patrie 1870 Statue was created by sculptor Étienne Pagny. It was inaugurated on October 30, 1887.
The Aux enfants du Rhône défenseurs de la Patrie 1870 Statue features a stone hemicycle. In front of it is a bronze statue. The statue includes a woman with a flag. A trumpet player is also depicted. There is also a lion’s head.
Charles Textor created the lion breaking a sword. Adolphe Coquet was the architect. The Thiébaut brothers were the founders. Aux enfants du Rhône défenseurs de la Patrie 1870 Statue was funded by public subscription. Representatives from Belfort attended the inauguration. The city was defended by soldiers from the Rhône.
The base of the Aux enfants du Rhône défenseurs de la Patrie 1870 Statue shows a lion destroying a sword. It also tramples the enemy flag. At the top, Étienne Pagny’s bronze statue features three soldiers. Two are armed. One is sounding a horn. The statue also includes a woman holding a flag. A plaque honors General Philippe Leclerc de Hauteclocque. It is located on the right side of the hemicycle.
These soldiers from the Rhône were part of various units. They served in the Rhône artillery and engineering. They were in the mobile Rhône units. They were part of the 16th and 65th marching regiments. They also served as free shooters.
The Aux enfants du Rhône défenseurs de la Patrie 1870 Statue stands as a powerful symbol. It represents the courage and sacrifice of local soldiers. It also reminds us of the enduring impact of war. Take a moment to reflect on their service.