Fresne-lès-Reims, a commune in the Marne department of France, holds a surprisingly rich historical record, extending back centuries. Although often a quiet corner of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, archival research reveals a tapestry of lives documented through justice records, local memorials and vital registration – births, marriages, and deaths. This article delves into the available records, offering a glimpse into the past of this French community.
The earliest documented records pertaining to Fresne-lès-Reims currently accessible through the Archives départementales de la Marne date back to 1710-1724, specifically concerning the “Justice de Fresne-lès-Reims” within the canton of Bourgogne. These records, cataloged under reference code 24 B 528, offer a window into the legal proceedings and administrative functions of the time. Understanding the context of justice administration in 18th-century France is crucial; local justices often handled a wide range of disputes, from property conflicts to minor criminal offenses, providing valuable insights into the daily lives of the inhabitants.
Gustave de Bohan and the Local Memorial
A significant figure in the historical record of Fresne-lès-Reims is Gustave de Bohan. His work, “Le Mémorial de Fresne,” published in 1930, stands as a dedicated attempt to preserve the local history and memory of the community. The Bibliothèque Municipale de Reims holds a copy of this work, cataloged under the cote Ch 494. De Bohan’s memorial includes a letter to the Cardinal of Cologne, suggesting a connection to broader historical and religious contexts. The work also contains pieces justifying itself with extracts from the Departmental Archives, and details the events of the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871) and its impact on the region, as well as celebrating the golden anniversaries of Félix and Emile Bergé.
The significance of “Le Mémorial de Fresne” lies not only in its content but also in its timing. Published in the interwar period, it reflects a broader European trend of local history writing aimed at fostering a sense of community and national identity in the aftermath of World War I. The inclusion of portraits and views within the publication further enhances its value as a visual and textual record of the period. The book itself is described as 101 pages long, with 10 photographs.
Tracing Generations Through Vital Records
Beyond legal and memorial records, the Archives départementales de la Marne hold a wealth of vital records for Fresne-lès-Reims, spanning several centuries. These records – baptisms, marriages, and burials – provide a granular view of population movements, family structures, and mortality rates. The earliest of these records currently available date back to 1674-1729, cataloged under 2 E 294/1, encompassing 194 media items. Following this, records from 1730-1792 are available (2 E 294/2, 232 media items), and then 1793 through the end of the French Revolutionary period (2 E 294/3, 117 media items).
The continuity of these records is particularly valuable for genealogical research. Researchers can trace family lines through successive generations, uncovering patterns of migration, occupation, and social status. The records from the 19th century are equally detailed, covering the periods 1823-1832 (2 E 294/4, 181 media items), 1833-1842 (2 E 294/5, 198 media items), 1843-1852 (2 E 294/6, 176 media items), 1853-1862 (2 E 294/7, 174 media items), 1863-1872 (2 E 294/8, 188 media items), 1873-1882 (2 E 294/9, 152 media items), 1883-1892 (2 E 294/10, 170 media items), 1893-1902 (2 E 294/11, 155 media items), and beyond. The consistent documentation of these life events provides a remarkably complete picture of the demographic history of Fresne-lès-Reims.
The Importance of Archival Research
The accessibility of these records through the Archives départementales de la Marne is a testament to the importance of preserving historical documentation. Archival research allows historians, genealogists, and local residents to connect with the past, understand the evolution of their communities, and appreciate the lives of those who came before them. The digitization of these records, as evidenced by the “media items” count associated with each catalog entry, further enhances their accessibility, allowing researchers from around the world to explore the history of Fresne-lès-Reims.
the records offer insights into the social and economic conditions of the time. Marriage records, for example, can reveal information about dowries, social status, and occupational patterns. Burial records can provide clues about disease outbreaks and mortality rates. By analyzing these records collectively, researchers can reconstruct a detailed picture of life in Fresne-lès-Reims over the centuries.
Gustave de Bohan’s Residence and Business
Recent information indicates that De Bohan had a business located at 5 Rue Gustave De Bohan, 51110 Fresne Les Reims, France. Yelp lists a phone number for the business as 03 26… (the full number is not provided). This suggests that the De Bohan name continued to be associated with a local presence in Fresne-lès-Reims well into the 21st century.
The continued presence of the De Bohan name in the community underscores the lasting legacy of Gustave de Bohan’s work in preserving the local history of Fresne-lès-Reims. His “Mémorial de Fresne” remains a valuable resource for understanding the past, and his dedication to documenting the lives of those who came before him continues to resonate with residents today.
The archival records of Fresne-lès-Reims, from the justice records of the 18th century to the vital records spanning centuries, offer a compelling narrative of a French community’s evolution. Continued research and preservation of these records will undoubtedly reveal even more insights into the rich history of this often-overlooked corner of the Marne department. The next step for researchers interested in delving deeper is to consult the Archives départementales de la Marne directly, exploring the full extent of their holdings and uncovering the stories hidden within these invaluable historical documents.
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