Here stands a monument to Antoine-Augustin Parmentier. This statue honors a man who changed French history. He championed the humble potato. Before Parmentier many believed potatoes were poisonous. They were even banned for a time. Parmentier however knew better. As an army pharmacist he’d survived on potatoes during a war.
He returned to Paris with a mission. He would convince his countrymen of the potato’s value. This wasn’t easy. He wrote papers. He held lavish dinners for important people. He even used a clever marketing ploy. He planted potatoes and guarded them. People thought they were precious. When the guards left Parisians helped themselves. The potato’s popularity grew.
Parmentier’s efforts earned him royal favor. Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette themselves wore potato blossoms. Parmentier even received the Legion of Honour from Napoleon. His legacy continues. Many dishes are named after him. This statue is a tribute to his dedication. His persistence made a nutritious staple accessible to all. The potato’s place in French cuisine is his lasting achievement.