Rue Franklin

Nestled in the heart of Lyon, Rue Franklin whispers tales of transatlantic connections and captivating characters. This street, named after the renowned Benjamin Franklin, stretches from Quai Maréchal-Joffre to Quai du Docteur-Gailleton, crossing paths with bustling streets like Rue Vaubecour and Rue de la Charité. Rue Franklin wasn’t always known by this name. Before honoring the American statesman, it bore the titles Rue de la Reine and Rue de la Concorde. Benjamin Franklin’s connection to Lyon is fascinating. He visited the city in 1785 and was honored with membership in the prestigious Académie des sciences, belles-lettres et arts de Lyon. This visit cemented a bond between Franklin and Lyon, ultimately leading to the street being named after him in 1878. Imagine strolling down Rue Franklin in the late 19th century, the cobblestones echoing with the clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages. Perhaps you might pass the home of Clair Tisseur, the Lyonnaise writer who resided at number 10. Or perhaps you’d catch a glimpse of Charles Maurras, the controversial figure who lived at number 28 bis during World War II. Rue Franklin also holds a darker memory. In December 1969, a dramatic shootout took place at the corner of Rue d’Enghien and Rue Franklin, involving Pierre Rémond of the infamous Gang des Lyonnais. The incident resulted in the tragic death of both Rémond and Sous-Brigadier Jean Bianchini. Today, Rue Franklin is a vibrant mix of old and new. While echoes of its past linger, it’s now home to a variety of businesses, from charming bakeries to innovative design agencies. So, as you walk along Rue Franklin, remember the stories it holds. From a founding father of the United States to a local Lyonnaise writer, the street’s history is a tapestry woven with intriguing threads.