Claude Farrere Plaque

Did Claude Farrère ever imagine, as a boy growing up in this very house, that one day a plaque would bear his name? Here at the Claude Farrere Plaque in Lyon, we celebrate the life of a man who was both a decorated naval officer and a celebrated writer. The plaque, which you see before you, commemorates Frédéric-Charles-Pierre-Édouard Bargone, known to the world as Claude Farrère. Born right here on April 27, 1876, Farrère’s life was a fascinating blend of adventure and artistry. He followed in his father’s footsteps, a colonial infantry colonel, by entering the French Naval Academy in 1894. He rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a captain. His naval career took him to exotic locales like the Far East, serving on ships such as the Vauban and Descartes. These experiences would later fuel his vivid and captivating novels. Farrère wasn’t content with just one career, though. He also pursued his passion for writing. His talent blossomed early, earning him the prestigious Prix Goncourt in 1905 for his novel “Les Civilisés”. Many of his stories, like “Fumée d’opium” and “La Bataille”, draw inspiration from his time in the Navy and his travels to far-off lands. He was a friend of other literary giants like Pierre Loti, another naval officer turned author, and Pierre Louÿs. One intriguing anecdote places Farrère at a Paris book fair in 1932. While talking with French President Paul Doumer, shots rang out. Doumer was fatally wounded. Farrère, though wounded himself, bravely wrestled with the assassin. Back here in Lyon, the Claude Farrere Plaque serves as a reminder of a true Lyonnaise who left his mark on both the literary and military worlds. A man of action and words, Claude Farrère’s life continues to inspire us.