In 1650 rural France, justice was swift and visible, especially for the poor. Most rural areas fell under the jurisdiction of the local seigneur (lord) who meted out justice. A peasant unable to pay his debts or found guilty of minor offenses, such as petty theft, insults, drunkenness, or selling goods without license, rarely faced … Continue reading Prisons – Then & Now
Tag: france
LeMans France – Old and New
The ancient Roman city of LeMans, France becomes the epicenter of world motorsport every June with the running of the 24 Hours of LeMans. The race was never held within the walled city, but pre-race events are, many in front of the sixth-century church — Notre Dame de la Couture. The Driver’s Parade and scrutineering … Continue reading LeMans France – Old and New
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Time Travel Tuesday
The poorest of peasants in France in the 17th century did not have horses, mules, carts, and carriages. They traveled on foot and, by necessity, carried whatever they could–but only what they needed. They used baskets, wooded frames, cross-body satchels, fardes (like a hobo’s bindle,) and sac à dos — literally, ‘bag for the back.’ … Continue reading Time Travel Tuesday
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Mystery Monday
Why can't we build structures that last for centuries? My genealogical records show our Rochon family tree goes back to at least 1639 to Saint-Cosme-de-Vair in the Perth region southwest of Paris. That inspired me to start my historical fiction novel there on a poor peasant farm. The parish church is central to the story. … Continue reading Mystery Monday
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Bad Hair Day?
Ok, that was 1969. I’m throwing back to 1650 when hair was such a bother for peasants. Girls younger than twelve could leave their hair loose or braided. Once a girl reached puberty, she was expected to cover her hair, perhaps braid it and gather it under her cap for modesty. Keeping the hair under … Continue reading Bad Hair Day?
Jeanne Meeks ~ Fiction Author 