Isn’t it intriguing that such a serene place holds so many hidden stories? We are standing before the Maison Forestière Haute de Bois Corbon. This is a place with a past reaching far beyond what meets the eye.
The Maison Forestière Haute de Bois Corbon sits within the Domaine du Bois Corbon. It is a 60-hectare area that is part of the Montmorency forest near Saint-Prix. The state acquired this area long ago. It is now a preserved space not open to the public.
Once, a grand château stood here. It was demolished in the 1980s. Now, only two forest houses and the large pavilion of the commons remain. The pavilion now houses the offices of the ONF. The ONF is the Office National des Forêts. Occasionally, schools and associations use the space as well.
Let’s rewind to the Second Empire. The story of this place takes a surprising turn. A project called “Le camp de César” was proposed by an insurance company. They owned a large part of the forest. The plan was rejected in 1859. The Water and Forest Administration opposed deforestation. They feared nearby villages would suffer from water shortages. Disappointed, the company director built a château on the Bois Corbon estate.
In 1870, the Prussians occupied the newly built château. Imagine that. Just after its completion, enemy soldiers were using it.
Another huge real estate project was refused again in 1928. “La Cité forestière de Montmorency” was the new plan. It was by the same insurance company.
Before its demolition, the château housed a school for fishing guards in the 1950s. Picture young students learning about nature.
The Domaine du Bois-Corbon got its name from the Corbon stream. The stream runs through the property.
The ONF assures us that the forest has very old trees. One remarkable group is the “Cépée des onze Apôtres.” This is a cluster of chestnut trees listed as notable at the departmental level.
The Domaine de Bois-Corbon is a haven for wild animals. They find peace among the rhododendron bushes. These bushes bloom with spectacular flowers in late May and early June. Imagine the vibrant colors.
So, while the Maison Forestière Haute de Bois Corbon may seem like a simple building now, it stands on ground rich with history. From failed real estate ventures to Prussian occupation and ancient trees, this place has witnessed much. It remains a peaceful corner of the forest, inviting us to reflect on the layers of time.