A name echoes through time here at Place Edouard Pinoy. The square whispers a tale of sacrifice and remembrance. We stand at a place named for a young soldier.
Place Edouard Pinoy is more than just a space. It is a tribute to Edouard Pinoy. He was a local man who gave his life in World War I. His story is etched into the very fabric of this place.
Edouard Pinoy was born in Auderghem on October 28, 1893. He worked as a blacksmith’s assistant. He was single when the First World War broke out. Edouard joined the 5th Line Regiment as a soldier. He was reported missing in action in October 1914. It was later discovered that he succumbed to his wounds. This happened between Lombardzijde and Nieuwpoort on October 20, 1914. The war had only been raging for less than three months.
The square’s history stretches back to 1843. The old Rue du Moulin à Papier once made a bend here. At that time four old buildings stood here. The area was known as Pré des Agneaux. The square itself was built in 1925. On June 20, the local council decided to name it after Edouard Pinoy. He was a victim of the Great War.
Place Edouard Pinoy has been redesigned since its creation. In 1958 two houses were demolished. These houses took up a large space on the north side of the square. In 1966 the municipal school number 4 was built on the south side.
Today Place Edouard Pinoy stands as a testament. It is a testament to a community’s memory. It reminds us of the cost of war. As you stand here think of Edouard Pinoy. Remember the countless others who never returned home. This square is a place of reflection. It is a place of remembrance. It connects us to the past. It urges us to strive for a more peaceful future.