“Installed since the 18th century” sounds like the beginning of a fascinating story. The Musée municipal d’Histoire et d’Archéologie de Longjumeau has quite a past. It resides in the Hôtel du Dauphin. The Peace of Longjumeau was signed here in 1562.
This museum presents a quality collection. Archaeological digs have been going on for over thirty years. The association Renaissance et Culture leads them. These findings hold an important place in the museum. The Musée municipal d’Histoire et d’Archéologie de Longjumeau also houses collections. These came from the former owner, Doctor Cathelin. He was an eminent urologist who died in 1960 at 86.
Let’s step back to 1562. Calvinists led by the Prince de Condé ravaged the region. Longjumeau was spared. A strong group of Protestants lived here. Longjumeau was chosen for peace talks. They aimed to end the second war of religion. Catholics and Protestants met here. The peace was signed on March 23, 1568, in Longjumeau. It was called “lame and badly seated peace.” A plaque commemorates this. It was inaugurated in 1929.
Fernand Cathelin dedicated his life to this museum. He used his fortune and time. He created this Longjumeau museum. He lived with his family in the Hôtel du Dauphin. It was once an old inn. He found it the ideal spot. He created a museum of 245 square meters here. He started his rich collections very young. The museum opened on July 8, 1934. The Municipal Council attended.
Doctor Cathelin’s tours were lively. He shared anecdotes and memories. They started on the first floor. The osteology room held human skulls. Many were from the Gallo-Roman era. There were also chimpanzee skulls plus lions and panthers. The museum held diverse collections then.
Ethnography included human busts. Rare Aztec and Inca pieces were present. There were even poisoned arrows. Pathological anatomy displayed a 3400-year-old mummy. A cat with eight legs and other animal monstrosities were shown. Paleontology showed mammoth tusks and a hippo skull. Prehistory had polished axes. A large sample of cut stones came from all over France. The reptile room featured over 100 species. Crocodiles and snakes filled the room. Entomology boasted shimmering beetles and spiders. Fossils and shells included giant ammonites. Animal and plant imprints were displayed. Botany showed fruits, vegetables, and seeds. Over 100 wood types were exhibited. A six-thousand-plant herbarium delighted enthusiasts. Nests and eggs also had many varieties. Stones and minerals showed marbles from around the world. Quartz and agates were present. Diagrams of crystal structures added depth. Mammals and birds included opossums and coatis. Two mounted stags in combat were a highlight. Medico-surgical rooms were for adults only. Surgical instruments and anatomical displays filled jars.
Doctor Cathelin wanted to donate the museum to Longjumeau after his death. He died on March 31, 1960. No succession took place. His last wishes were not found. In 1983, the building deteriorated. It was demolished. Only 5% of the collection could be saved. In 1984, a codicil from August 2, 1934, was found. The will was located. The provisions were no longer valid. The city now manages the Musée municipal d’Histoire et d’Archéologie de Longjumeau. The management committee is at 134 Grande-Rue. This is the site of the Hôtel du Dauphin.
Inaugurated on September 20, 1997, the museum was created. The most remarkable pieces were chosen. They came from Renaissance et Culture and the city. Many objects came from archaeological sites. Our association has explored these sites.
All eras are represented. They range from the Middle Jurassic to today. The Neolithic period and Celtic occupation are shown. The Gallo-Roman period is featured. Merovingian and Carolingian settlements are displayed. Objects from ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt are present. These are from the Frédérique and Berthe Nathanson donation. Some objects were acquired by the Management Committee.
Today, the Musée municipal d’Histoire et d’Archéologie de Longjumeau stands as a testament. It honors the past. It showcases Longjumeau’s rich history. It offers a glimpse into the world. It shows how people lived long ago.