After three years of acquisitions and classification, the Du Châtelet family archive, comprising several thousand documents dating from the 13th to the 18th century, will be on display from June 20 to December 18 at the Archives départementales de la Haute-Marne in Choignes-Chamarande.
This rich collection of documents, reflecting the art of living in Haute-Marne, is divided into two main sections: administrative documents (memoirs, military papers, correspondence, etc.) and private documents (inventories, contracts, divisions, etc.). Six centuries of history and seigniorial possessions are revealed through exceptional documents such as letters patent from Charles V and watercolor parchments establishing the family’s rights and honors.
Seven themes will highlight the history and importance of this family, including the House of Du Châtelet and its estates; the Du Châtelets in the service of Lorraine and the French monarchy; the château and gardens of Cirey; the seigniorial economy of Cirey; Émilie Du Châtelet, France’s first woman of science; daily life in Cirey in Émilie’s time; Madame de Simiane, the other lady of Cirey.
Émilie Tonnelier de Breteuil, a woman of science and letters, will of course be a character to be rediscovered on this occasion. For over ten years, she lived in her château at Cirey-sur-Blaise with a certain Voltaire. Together they tried out scientific experiments, and shared many discussions and walks.
In addition to archival documents, this exhibition will be complemented by paintings, parchments, watercolor plans and scientific instruments, so that everyone can immerse themselves in the history of this great family. Don’t hesitate to come and explore the fascinating past of an extraordinary family.
Archives départementales de la Haute-Marne, Rue du Lycée agricole, 52000 Chamarandes- Choignes
Cette publication est également disponible en :
