BURYING-PLACE OF THE COLONIALS ALONG N. 4
In that part of the plain which lies to the right of the road, beyond Écriennes, near Matignicourt, there took place in 1891 the famous review of troops by President Carnot. It was the first important military demonstration since the war of 1870. It signalised the resurrection of the national spirit, and because of this fact it produced a very deep impression both in France and in foreign countries. Monuments to the memory of President Carnot have been raised on the field of the review, at Vitry; in the Carnot Square; and at Châlons in the Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville.
CHURCH ÉCRIENNES
Taking the road leading to Écriennes (10 km.) we arrive at this village, which has been completely devastated, as may be seen in the photos on this page. The church, the upper part of which is of timber-work, was blown in by shells.
Écriennes was hotly disputed from September 6 to 11. It was taken on the 6th by the Germans, in spite of an heroic defence by the 21st Colonials; then retaken only to be lost again by the French on the 8th, and retaken finally on the 11th.
After passing in front of the church, turn to the left in order to rejoin N. 4, along which turn to the right in the direction of Farémont. The road is bordered on both sides by graves, for the fighting here was very violent. On the road and to the south of it the Colonial Infantry fought doggedly, sometimes gaining, sometimes losing ground. To the north of N. 4 the Lejaille Brigade tried to push towards Vauclerc.
We enter Farémont (12½ km.), some of the houses of which have been burned. On emerging, leave N. 4 and turn to the left in order to reach Thiéblemont (13½ km.). This village was also completely devastated by shells and fire, but the church is still standing. This side of the church, turn to the left into G. C. 60 leading to Favresse. Graves may be seen along this road. On September 6, that portion of the Colonial Corps which held Favresse followed G. C. 60 in the opposite direction, falling back on Farémont, while the Lejaille Brigade came to take their place at Favresse.