Down Avenue Vandromme-Vandrommelaan we stroll. This unassuming street in Auderghem holds a poignant story. A story of sacrifice and remembrance. Avenue Vandromme isn’t just a road. It’s a memorial.
Avenue Vandromme in Brussels is a relatively short street. It stretches only 220 meters. It descends from the Chaussée de Wavre to the Boulevard des Invalides. Before it became Avenue Vandromme a different path existed. Ferraris’ map from 1771 shows a simple track. This track cut through fields. It led to the old Houtweg.
Later the path was named Sloordelleweg. This name translates to “rapeseed valley path”. The Atlas des Communications Vicinales from 1843 mentions this name. It was a long path. The first part was 4 meters wide. It continued down a hill. Then it narrowed. It continued towards Ixelles via the Houtweg. This narrower part became the Boulevard des Invalides.
The wider section became Avenue Vandromme. This honors Leon Benedictus Cornelis Vandromme. He was a soldier. He was born on February 4 1886 in Boezinge. He died on October 26 1914 in Pervijze during World War I. He lived in Auderghem.
The council later removed the first name Leon. They wanted to honor both Leon and his son Lucien. Both father and son died in battle. They chose to honor them on the same street. Lucien died on May 10 1940 during World War II.
The first buildings on Avenue Vandromme numbers 7 and 9 were constructed quickly. The avenue was officially named in 1925. Avenue Vandromme stands as a quiet tribute. It commemorates the sacrifices of a father and son. Their courage during wartime is remembered. They gave their lives for their country. Avenue Vandromme is more than just a street. It’s a place of quiet reflection and enduring memory. A place where history whispers on the breeze.