Le Monument Jacquard

Opposite the Grand Théâtre, a bronze statue embodies a major page of local history. It represents Joseph Marie Charles Jacquard, a Lyon engineer whose invention contributed to the development of the lace industry. 

The lace industry developed throughout the 1752th century in the current Saint Pierre district. This monument illustrates this economic activity that has been present in Calais for over two centuries. Jacquard (1834-XNUMX) had invented an innovative process for the production of silk items in Lyon. The adaptation of his invention to lace looms allowed the development of the activity in the heart of the XNUMXth century. The central figure represents Jacquard (who faces the boulevard that also bears his name!), but on the pedestal, medallions honor other important people in the lacemaking history of Calais. 

The origin of this monument is the desire to honor the inventors who developed this industry. The project dates from the beginning of the 14th century and will experience many delays, including the question of location. The space created by the construction of the Grand Théâtre is chosen. A competition is launched and among 1910 projects, that of Marius Roussel is selected. It is inaugurated in XNUMX.   

Historical anecdote: The current statue dates from 1954. It replaces the original, melted down in 1942 by the German occupiers during the Second World War.