Built between 1879 and 1886 Fort d’Englos stands proudly. It’s a testament to a bygone era of military might. This seemingly quiet structure has witnessed history unfold.
Fort d’Englos also known as Fort Pierquin is situated near Englos in the Nord department. It’s part of Lille’s extensive fortification system. The fort is strategically located on a small hill. This offered a commanding view of the surrounding plains. However today it’s somewhat isolated. The construction of the A25 motorway and other roads changed its surroundings.
The fort’s construction was a significant undertaking. It’s made of brick masonry. Thick layers of earth cover the brickwork. This design was common in the first generation of Séré de Rivières forts. The fort’s design included moats defended by caponières. Artillery pieces were positioned on open-air platforms separated by protective traverses. The fort was originally designed to house 607 men. Its armament included 20 rampart pieces 2 mortars and 10 flanking pieces. The powder magazine could hold 70000 kg of powder. It also had storage for a vast quantity of ammunition. Two wells provided a water supply. A bakery existed within the fort capable of baking 200 rations.
In 1887 a decree by the Minister of War Georges Boulanger renamed it Fort Pierquin. This was in honor of General Nicolas Pierquin. Pierquin was mortally wounded at the Battle of Tourcoing in 1794. The new name was intended to be engraved above the entrance. However this renaming was short-lived. Boulanger’s successor quickly reversed the decision. The fort officially resumed its original name.
Lille’s fortifications were never modernized in the late 19th century. They lacked the reinforced concrete and armored turrets seen in later designs. This led to their decommissioning in 1910. Despite being declared an ‘open city’ in 1914 the fort played a role in World War I. It was occupied by German forces. It served as a garrison and ammunition depot. During World War II it was used as a fuel depot. Allied bombing on August 9 1944 caused significant damage. The fort was decommissioned in 1962 and sold to the commune of Ennetières-en-Weppes in 1996. Today the Fort d’Englos stands as a silent witness to the tumultuous history of this region. Its story continues to fascinate. The Association Les amis du fort Pierquin works to preserve it. They offer occasional tours allowing visitors to delve into its past.