Avenue de Clermont Tonnerre

Curiously, the Avenue de Clermont Tonnerre in Aulnay-sous-Bois carries a name steeped in French history. Right here, this avenue connects us to a family whose influence touched royalty, war, the church, and even far-flung Pacific islands. The Clermont-Tonnerre family’s story begins in the Dauphiné region around 1100. Their legacy is woven into the fabric of France. Avenue de Clermont Tonnerre reminds us of their presence. One notable member, Gaspard de Clermont-Tonnerre, rose to become Marshal of France. He commanded troops at the Battle of Fontenoy in 1745. His decisive cavalry charge secured victory against the allied forces. This victory propelled him to the rank of Marshal of France after the Battle of Lauffeld in 1747. Gaspard’s son, Jules Charles Henri, also served as Lieutenant-General. The family’s influence extended beyond the military. Anne Antoine Jules de Clermont-Tonnerre became a Cardinal and Archbishop of Toulouse. This powerful family also intersected with royalty. Claude Catherine de Clermont-Tonnerre, a lady-in-waiting to Catherine de’ Medici, became the Duchess of Retz. Her intellectual prowess earned her the titles of “tenth muse” and “fourth grace.” Interestingly, a rather amusing anecdote connects the family to a well-known French song, “J’ai du bon tabac.” The Abbé de l’Attaignant wrote this song about Philippe Aynard, Count of Clermont and Tonnerre. The lyrics express a playful defiance. It revolves around having good tobacco and refusing to share it. The song’s tenth verse specifically mentions Monsieur de Clermont-Tonnerre’s displeasure at being the subject of the song. The Avenue de Clermont Tonnerre isn’t just a street name. It is a whisper of the family’s diverse contributions to French history, from military triumphs to religious leadership, royal connections, and even popular culture. As we continue our tour, keep this name in mind. It represents a family whose story echoes through the ages.