Isn’t it intriguing how a simple street name can unlock a world of history? Rue Damesme, in Paris’s 13th arrondissement, is just such a place.
Rue Damesme resides in the Maison Blanche neighborhood. It stretches approximately 500 meters connecting Rue de Tolbiac and Boulevard Kellermann. But this street wasn’t always called Rue Damesme.
Originally, it was part of the old road to Lyon. Later, it became known as Rue du Bel-Air. Before that, it was known as the old road to Lyon. In 1868, it was renamed Rue Damesme. This change honored General Édouard Damesme.
General Damesme was a brigade general. He suffered a mortal wound during the June 1848 revolution. He was hurt attacking a barricade near the Panthéon.
Today, Rue Damesme is easily accessible. Metro line 7 stops nearby at Tolbiac and Maison Blanche stations. Tram line 3a also provides convenient access.
As you walk along Rue Damesme, notice the buildings. At number 5, you’ll find a school. Robert Doisneau immortalized this school in his 1956 photograph “Les Écoliers de la rue Damesme”. You can also see houses built with meulière stone. This gives the street a unique character. Look out for the entrance to Impasse Damesme, a small side street.
Several buildings stand out along Rue Damesme. At number 37, there is a townhouse. A smaller townhouse can be seen at number 59. The entrance door at number 81 is also noteworthy. Finally, at number 85, a plaque commemorates a fighter who died for France in 1944.
Rue Damesme crosses the Petite Ceinture. This former railway line encircles Paris. The street then leads to the Boulevards des Maréchaux.
So, as you traverse Rue Damesme, remember its layers of history. From an old road to Lyon, to honoring a fallen general, this street has a story to tell. It’s more than just a street. Rue Damesme is a piece of Parisian history.