This unassuming stele on Rue Pierre Legrand tells a remarkable story. It’s the Monument de la famille Legrand a tribute to a family that significantly shaped Lille’s history. The stele itself isn’t ostentatious. It’s a simple stone monument. Yet its quiet dignity belies a dramatic past.
The Monument de la famille Legrand wasn’t always a stele. Initially a bronze statue of Pierre Legrand the younger a prominent Lille deputy and lawyer was unveiled in 1910. This original statue however had a troubled existence. Stolen during World War I it was replaced. Tragically it was stolen again in 1942 during the Nazi occupation. The bronze was likely melted down a common fate for many statues during that dark period.
After the war the city decided to honor the entire Legrand family. Their contributions were too substantial to ignore. The family’s legacy included not only Pierre Legrand the younger but also his father Pierre Legrand the elder a lawyer and writer and his uncle Géry Legrand a Senator and even mayor of Lille.
Thus in 1966 the Monument de la famille Legrand was reborn. Sculptor Morlaix created the current stele. This time it’s made of more resilient stone. Three medallions feature the profiles of the three prominent Legrands. Inscriptions beneath identify each man and highlight his achievements. Pierre Legrand 1834-1895 is remembered as a Minister and deputy. Géry Legrand 1837-1902 is lauded as a Senator and mayor. Pierre Legrand 1804-1859 receives recognition as a deputy writer and lawyer.
The Monument de la famille Legrand is more than just a memorial. It is a testament to endurance. It speaks to the resilience of a family and the city they helped shape. The stele’s quiet presence stands as a reminder of the twists and turns of history and the enduring impact of a remarkable family. The story of its creation and destruction and ultimate rebirth mirrors the resilience of Lille itself.