On arriving by the Avenue Victor Hugo, after crossing the bridge over the Aisne, the Gendarmerie, at No. 8 on the right, should be noticed. It is the old post-house where Louis XVI. was recognised during his flight in 1791. Over a door which opens into the Rue de la Porte-des-Bois, the word “Poste” carved in the stone may still be seen.
The royal carriage stopped near this post-house in broad daylight, arousing the curiosity of the bystanders by its imposing appearance and by the respect paid to the traveller and his family by the members of his suite. The postmaster, Drouet, thought he recognised Louis XVI., whom he had seen at Versailles, and he was confirmed in his belief by an assignat (paper money) with the king’s head stamped upon it, which had just been given him.
After the departure of the carriage, Drouet followed it to Varennes, where he caught it up and had the royal family arrested.
SAINTE-MENEHOULD HÔTEL-DE-VILLE
The Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville is next reached with the Hôtel-de-Ville, an 18th century building, on the right (photo above).
Cross the “Place,” keeping to the left, via the Rue Chanzy, which is the main street. On the right, at No. 33, is the Hôtel-de-Metz, an old inn on the road from Metz to Paris, formerly well known, the original kitchen of which has preserved its ample dimensions and innumerable copper utensils.