On the move again. Visited cache on Sep 19, 2025. GCB8BGW
This cache is located near the Place Henri Frenay, in the former « îlot Chalon » district (Chalon islet).
The îlot Chalon was a district near the Gare de Lyon, bounded by the rue de Chalon, the avenue Daumesnil, the boulevard Diderot and the rue de Rambouillet. Built in the mid-19th century at the same time as the Gare de Lyon, the district was initially made up of workers' housing, warehouses and workshops. Considered unsanitary just 50 years after its construction, the various owners failed to carry out any rehabilitation work.
In the 1970s, the site became notorious for its insalubrious condition. The occupation of disused buildings and the use of hard drugs became a media issue.
In 1984, the public authorities made a commitment to rehabilitate the district: several police operations were organised to arrest illegal immigrants, drug suppliers and users. At the same time, the first buildings were demolished.
The history of this district illustrates a radical gentrification method based on destruction and reconstruction. The precarious population was moved to more distant and less visible parts of the city, as was the drug trade.
A few buildings dating from the construction of the district remain, at the junction of Passage Raguinot and Avenue Dausmenil for example.
For french readers, more information on the district availaible here: