Nanteuil-le-Haudouin

Drawn by the allure of history, let’s journey to Nanteuil-le-Haudouin, a commune steeped in rich heritage. Nanteuil-le-Haudouin, nestled in the Oise department in northern France, reveals a captivating tale. Its name, derived from the Celtic language, translates to “region of ponds and springs.” In 1230, it was known as Nantholium, and later, during the French Revolution, as Nanteuil la Nonette. The intriguing addition of “Haudouin” comes from Hilduinus, a significant figure in the town’s past. Nanteuil-le-Haudouin boasts a fascinating connection to ancient Gaul, having been one of the wealthiest Roman possessions. Clovis, a prominent historical figure, granted this land to his general, Chagueric. By the 7th century, Saint Walbert inherited the land. Later, it was divided between the monks of Luxeuil and the Counts of Ponthieu. Around the year 1000, Hilduin, Count of Breteuil, controlled most of Nanteuil-le-Haudouin. The town subsequently passed through the hands of various lords, including those of Lenoncourt, Guise, Schomberg, and d’Estrées. The Prince of Condé held the distinction of being the last lord of Nanteuil-le-Haudouin. Interestingly, Louis d’Orléans, brother of Charles VI, possessed the château at the end of the 13th century. Nanteuil-le-Haudouin played a pivotal role during World War I in the episode of the “taxis of the Marne.” On September 7, 1914, General Gallieni, the military governor of Paris, commandeered over 600 taxis. These taxis, which became known as the “taxis of the Marne,” transported 4,000 soldiers from Gagny to Nanteuil-le-Haudouin. This maneuver aimed to bolster the Sixth Army in its attack against Von Kluck’s forces. A monument at the town’s entrance commemorates this historic event. Nanteuil-le-Haudouin holds a unique place in cinematic history. It appeared on a map in Quentin Tarantino’s film “Inglourious Basterds,” albeit under the fictional name “Nadine.” This seemingly small detail adds another layer of intrigue to this historic commune. The population of Nanteuil-le-Haudouin has fluctuated over the years. In 1968, it was 1,712. It grew to 1,959 in 1975, 2,285 in 1982, 2,672 in 1990, and 3,126 in 1999. By 2007, it reached 3,250 and continued to rise to 3,476 in 2012, and 4,296 in 2017. As of 2022, the population is estimated to be 4,274. Nanteuil-le-Haudouin, a town with a captivating past, continues to evolve. From its Celtic origins to its role in wartime, this commune offers a glimpse into French history and culture.