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Family Message
Board/Forum
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Click Here to go to Chazfest
2007 France Page 2
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MARCILLY
LE CHATEL
Texte
de Jean-Pierre de Chazal - Translation in English:
Christopher de Chazal - Traducción en español : Silvia
Hlawaczek
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IL
se voit de loin le château de Marcilly-le-Chatel:
une magnifique forteresse qui existait déjà
au 10ieme siécle, surplombant toute la
plaine environnante. En 1657, notre ancêtre Jean
II en avait la charge en tant que capitaine-châtelain
et juge royal, ce qui par voie de conséquence apporta
la noblesse à notre famille. Quel bonheur et
quelle émotion de marcher dans ses pas, et près
de 400 ans plus tard de partager avec lui la perspective
du haut de ces murailles. |
| C'est
dans ce climat émotionnel qu'eût lieu le 20
juillet 2007 l'un des événements majeurs de ce
Chazfest: la réception donnée en notre
honneur par la ville de Marcilly-Le-Chatel. Le
discours d'accueil de son Maire,
Monsieur Louis Bouchet, sur la place devant l'église
St-Cyr tout juste rénovée, les danses et chants
folkloriques, le vin d'honneur animé qui s'en
suivit, et surtout notre rencontre avec cette
cinquantaine de “CHAZAL” de Marcilly avec
lesquels notre lien de parenté remonte au 16ieme
siécle avant Jean Ier, resteront pour nous des
moments inoubliables. C'est au coeur de ce
village du Forez, que nous avons tous
ressenti que nos racines profondes étaient plus
vivaces que jamais, face à ces Chazal venus
nous souhaiter la bienvenue, |
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 |
Un
autre grand moment fut la visite du domaine
de la Morandin, où Jean II s'établit des 1664.
Située à 6oo mètres du Château de Marcilly, et
ainsi nommée d'après la famille qui l'occupa au
début du 15ieme siecle, cette proprieté fut
habitée par nos ancêtres jusqu'en 1781. Après
être passés sous les armoiries qui orne la
grille extérieure, Madame Combet et son mari,
actuels proprietaires des lieux, nous montrérent
la partie la plus ancienne du batiment d'origine avec
son traditionnel balcon véranda typique des
constructions de l'époque. Nous avons
pu admirer aussi un magnifique pigeonnier. Les
vignes sans cesse renouvelées produisent
actuellement un vin de qualité. |
English version.
| The
chateau of Marcilly-le-Châtel is seen from miles
away: a magnificent fortress which existed before
the 10th Century which dominated the
surrounding plain. In 1657, our ancestor Jean II
had full administrative power as Captain-Lord of
the Manor and Judge-Royal, leading consequently to
the ennoblement of our family. What pleasure and
emotion it was to walk in his footsteps, and
nearly four hundred years later to share his views
from the top for these walls. |
 |
 |
It is in this heighted
state that, on July 20, 2007 one of the major
events of this de Chazal reunion took place:
the reception given in our honour by the town
of Marcilly-Le-Châtel, the welcoming speech
by the Mayor, Mr Louis Bouchet, on the square
in front of the church St-Cyr which had just
been restored, the dances and folk- songs, the
lively reception with wine, and above all our
meeting with the fifty or so “CHAZAL” of
Marcilly with which our ties of relationship
go back to the 16th century before Jean Ist,
these unforgettable times will remain with us.
It is in the heart of this village in the
Forez region with these Chazal who had come to
bid us welcome, that we felt most deeply the
strength of our ancestral roots.
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| Another
wonderful moment was the visit to Morandin,
where Jean II came to live in 1664. Only 6oo
meters from the Chateau of Marcilly, and hence
named after the family which was in occupation
from the 15th century, this property was
occupied by our ancestors until 1781. After
passing under the ornate arch above the
caste-iron gate, Madame Combet and her husband,
the present owners, showed us the oldest part of
the building with its traditional enclosed
balcony which was typical of the time. We also
admired a splendid pigeon loft and the extensive
vineyards producing quality wine. |
|
Spanish
Version
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El
castillo del Marcilly-le-Chatel se puede ver desde
lejos: una fortaleza espléndida que existió ya
en el Siglo 10th, abarcando con la
vista el llano circundante. En 1657, nuestro
antepasado Jean II, estaba a cargo de él como
capitán-señor del señorío y juez real. Esto
dio el título de nobleza a nuestra familia. Es
con gran felicidad y emoción que caminamos donde
él caminó y 400 años más tarde, compartimos
con él la visión increíble desde lo alto de
estas paredes. |
| Es
en este clima emocional en el que tuvo lugar uno
de los acontecimientos principales de la Chazfest,
el 20 de julio de 2007: una recepción dada en
nuestro honor por la ciudad del Marcilly-Le-Chatel. |
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El
discurso de bienvenida de su alcalde: Sr. Louis
Bouchet, en el frontispicio de la Iglesia de San
Cyr, recién remodelada, danzas folclóricas y
canciones, seguidas por un vino de honor, y
especialmente nuestra reunión con unos 50
“Chazal” de Marcilly. Ellos son todos miembros
de nuestra familia desde el siglo 16th,
antes de Jean 1er. Qué momentos extraordinarios e
inolvidables tuvimos!. Es en el corazón de esta
ciudad de la región de Forez que todos sentimos
cuan profundas y vivas estaban nuestras raíces,
con todo el Chazals que vinieron a darnos la
bienvenida. |
| Otro
gran momento fue la visita al estado de Morandin,
donde Jean II vivió desde 1664. Localizado cerca
de 600 metros del castillo de Marcilly, este
dominio fue nombrado después de la familia que lo
ocupó desde el siglo 15th. Esta
propiedad fue habitada por nuestros antepasados
hasta 1781. Caminamos a través de la cubierta de
armas que adornaban la puerta, después la señora
Combet y su marido, hoy dueños de la propiedad,
nos dieron un paseo guiado por la parte más vieja
del edificio, con su balcón y mirador
tradicionales, típicos de las construcciones de
ese tiempo. También admiramos una magnífica casa
de palomas. El bien cuidado viñedo produce un
vino de buena calidad. |
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Discours
du Maire de Marcilly-le-Chatel, Monsieur Louis Bouchet,
accueillant notre famille.
Translation
in English : Christopher de Chazal
 |
ACCUEIL FAMILLE DE CHAZAL
Le Maire de Marcilly le Châtel,
son Conseil et sa population adressent aux descendants
de ces CHAZAL issus de la montagne de COURREAU à LA
ROFFIN et CHAMAREL puis établis de 1668 à 1771 à LA
MORANDIN leurs souhaits de : BIENVENUE, WELCOME,
BIENVENIDA. Je poursuivrai en français pour que vous
entendiez le parler Forézien de vos ancêtres, qui, à
partir de NOBLE AYME acquirent par Edit de 1600 la
particule, due au service du roi dans des charges
militaires et judiciaires exercées à Montbrison où
l’état civil a enregistré durant cette centaine
d’années les évènements familiaux. Partis ensuite
à la conquête de comptoirs avec la Compagnie des Indes
à l’Ile de France, actuellement Ile Maurice dans
l’océan Indien, ils s’y sont implantés, y
demeurent et ont proliféré. Sans doute pénétrés de
l’esprit d’aventure de leurs anciens, émigrants
intrépides et entreprenants, ils ont essaimé de par le
monde. Les voilà revenus entourés de nombreux CHAZAL,
indigènes, qui dans diverses activités font honneur à
ce noble nom (cf. étude très poussée de Roger CHAZAL).
|
| Ici,
ils se sont aussi abondamment répandus, une
cinquantaine à Marcilly le Châtel même, dont des
CHAZAL –CHAZAL ou CHAZAL au 2. Ils sont partout et
exercent des professions très diverses : agriculteurs,
viticulteurs, artisans, ouvriers, commerçants,
fonctionnaires, enseignants, universitaires, sportifs…,
maire… Certains même sont illustres dans leur partie,
par exemple ce CHAZAL dit NAPOLEON de la Charcuterie vu
l’excellence de ses produits. Aujourd’hui ils vous
entourent et admiratifs vous réservent leur accueil le
plus cordial. Pour marquer cet événement dans notre
histoire locale qu’est le passage en 2007 d’une ANNE
DAUPHINE après celui en 1412 d’une autre ANNE
DAUPHINE reçue en son château Ste ANNE de Marcilly le
Châtel avec sa nombreuse troupe, nous avons vendangé
quelques produits du terroir pour que vous en
enregistriez la saveur. Bon retour dans vos lointains
pays. Conservez de ce bref séjour en Forez, le souvenir
de ce pays qu’Honoré d’Urfé, auteur de l’Astrée,
grand roman du XVIIe, disait qu’il contient « en sa
petitesse ce qui est de plus rare au reste des Gaules ».
Merci de votre visite. |
|
English
Version
RECEPTION FOR THE DE CHAZAL FAMILY
| The
Mayor, The Council and The People of Marcilly le Châtel,
address the descendants of those CHAZAL originating from
the hills of the COURREAU, at ROFFIN and CHAMAREL
subsequently living at MORANDIN between 1668 and 1771.
BIENVENUE, WELCOME, BIENVENIDA.
I continue
in French so that you may hear the Forézien speech of
your ancestors.
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I
start with NOBLE AYME who by virtue of his services to the
king in military and legal matters, acquired, by Edit of
1600, the particle “de” to be added to his name. The
State has recorded in Montbrison, over more than a century
the main events concerning the family.
Going
subsequently, with The French Indies Company, to The Ile
de France, now known as Mauritius in the Indian Ocean,
they began trading on their own account, settled,
established themselves, and expanded.
|
| Undoubtedly
infused with the adventurous spirit of their forebears,
intrepid emigrants and entrepreneurs, they went forth
around the world. They have returned to be surrounded by
many indigenous CHAZAL, who in many different activities
give honour to this noble name Here they are also
widespread, fifty or so in Marcilly le Châtel alone,
of which there are CHAZAL, or CHAZAL coupled with another
name. |
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 |
They
are found everywhere and involved in many different
occupations: farmers, wine growers, craftsmen, workmen,
tradesmen, civil servants, teachers, academics,
sportsmen….mayor….Some are even well known in their
field, for example one CHAZAL is known as “NAPOLEON OF
THE CHACUTERIE TRADE” because of the excellence of his
products. Today these CHAZAL surround you, and with
respect, give you a wholehearted welcome. |
| The
passage through Marcilly le Chastel of ANNE DAUPHINE in
2007 can compare with that of another ANNE DAUPHINE, who
in 1412, was received in her château as SAINT ANNE of
Marcilly le Châtel with her numerous entourage. |
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To
mark todays’ important event in our local history we
have gathered together some produce of the country which
we encourage you to taste. We wish you a safe return to
your far-away homes. Honoré d’Urfé, author the great
romantic novel of the 17th C.
‘Astrée’, said of the Forez « despite its small size
it has all that is most rare in the rest of France”
remember this of your brief stay in this region.
Thank you
for coming to visit us.
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Translators note:
The Mayor of Marcilly le Châtel had
organised a “vin d’honneur” for the de Chazal family
visiting the cradle of their family roots in and around
that town in July 2007. A “vin d’honnour” is a
reception given when wine is served. This is the speech
given by The Mayor on that occasion. A full description
with photographs will no doubt be elsewhere on this
website.
|
Texte
de Jacques Poutet
Translation in English : Christopher de Chazal
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|
Nous
nous sommes retrouvés devant l'église de
Marcilly pour un "vin d'honneur"
offert par la municipalité en compagnie de
tous les Chazal de la commune, et ce fut là
un coup magistral réussi par Mr. le Maire.
Cette rencontre Chazal devait être un moment
de bonheur et d'émotion pour tout le monde,
marqué par des échanges divers et joyeux
entre les membres de la famille (eux mêmes très
divers par leur nationalité, leur situation
sociale et leur âge) et tous ces Chazal de
Marcily-le-Chastel et des environs: paysans,
notables, employés, commercants, etc... |
| L'accueil
qui nous a été réservé à la Morandin, cet
ancien domaine dont vous connaissez
l'importance pour les de Chazal, a été
sympathique. En 1989 le general Dellenbach,
qui était le propriétaire, nous avait fort
aimablement reçus, Simone et moi, à
l'occasion de notre passage dans la région. Il
avait été très intéressé par le livre sur
notre famille de René le Juge de Segrais (l'ouvrage
de Tristan n'existait pas encore) et photocopié
les pages concernant la Morandin. |
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|
Le
général étant décédé depuis quelques années,
il m'avait paru d'une élémentaire courtoisie
d'informer sa fille Mme Combet, devenue
l'actuelle propriétaire, de notre Chazfest,
en insistant sur l'intêret historique,
familial et affectif de son domaine pour tous
les membres de notre groupe. Bien
entendu j'effectuais cette démarche à titre
tout à fait personnel et courtois, n'ayant
aucune qualité d'organisateur, ni de
representant de Chazal pour ce faire. De la même
facon je pris contact avec le Maire de
Marcilly qui se montra très intéressé par
notre projet et m'assura qu'il allait
intervenir auprès de madame Combet afin
qu'elle puisse nous faire visiter la propriété
lors de notre passage. |
| Le
déjeuner qui a suivi au château de Coutelas
fut en tous points réussi. Organisé par
tables de 8 à l'extérieur, sur la belle
pelouse, il bénificia d'une météo clémente.
Nous avons évité la pluie. Le menu fut
excellent et l'ambiance particulièrement
sympathique. Mr. le Maire et Mr. Combet et Mme
Combet avaient été invités. Très heureuse
ininiative. En face de moi se trouvait un
garcon qui me plaisait par son aspect un peu
"gentleman farmer", direct par son
regard et son language. C'etait David Ardill. |
 |
English Version
| We
met in front of Marcilly church for a “vin
d’honneur” (reception with wine) given by
The Municipality of Marcilly together with all
the Chazals of the commune: it was a great
success presided over by His Worship the
Mayor. This Chazal meeting was undoubtedly a
time of joy and emotion for all present,
notable by the lively conversation between
members of the family (themselves very
different from each other due to nationality,
social position and age) and all the Chazals
from Marcilly-le-Chastel and the surrounding
area: farm-workers, dignitiaries, employees,
tradesmen etc. |
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 |
A
very warm welcome was extended to us at la
Morandin, the old property which is, as you
know, so important to the de Chazal family: In
1989 General Dëllenbach, who was the owner at
the time, gave Simone and me a very friendly
reception as we were passing through the area.
He was very interested in the book written
about our family by René le Juge de Segrais (Tristan’s
book not being available at the time) and he
photocopied the pages concerning la Morandin. |
| The
General having died some years ago, it seemed
to me that courtesy demand that I advise his
daughter, Madame Combet, who is the present
owner, of our reunion, emphasising the
historical family ties and the importance of
her property to the members of our group. I
took this step on my own initiative, having no
intention of organising anything, or of
representing the family. In the same spirit I
contacted the Mayor of Marcilly who showed
considerable interest in our project and
assured me that he would use his influence
with Madame Combet to allow us to visit her
property. |
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 |
The
luncheon that followed at the Goutelas Château
was a success in every way. Tables of eight
had been set up outside, on a beautiful lawn;
the weather was mild and the rain held off.
The menu was excellent and the atmosphere
particularly friendly. His Worship the Mayor
and Monsieur and Madame Combet had been
invited: a good and sensible decision.
Opposite me was a young man whom I liked
immediately because of his demeanour. Rather
like a “gentleman-farmer”; he looked me in
the eye and spoke frankly. It was David Ardill. |
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|
Texte de Roger Chazal, en Français et en Anglais.
CHAZAL, MARCILLY, NOMS PORTEURS DE SENS
| « CHAZAL »:
littéralement, un “chazal” signifia au départ,
non pas « maison » (qui est « domus »
et non « casa » en latin), mais création
d’une « case » foncière,
attribution d’un « lot » de terre
(“chasement”, “casement”) à un individu
de condition sociale variée (du serf au
prince), sur un principe de « viager ».
Le
bénéficiaire, ou “chasé”, s’engageait
pour la vie au versement annuel de la
contrepartie stipulée, en échange de
l’obtention de cette propriété
conditionnelle du lot de terre, qui valait
relative liberté de gestion. Bien que la terre
revînt en fin de contrat au « bailleur »
(la seigneurie concernée) et non au « preneur »
-- et pour cause (le contrat s’effaçant à la
mort du preneur), un tel accord risqué, voire léonin,
pouvait bien constituer «la chance de toute une
vie» pour des esprits entreprenants et actifs. |
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En
intervenant en leur temps, le haut Moyen-âge,
dans des sociétés en transition d’avant
la féodalité, ces « chasements »
constituaient des essais de passage à ce
qui fut compris plus tard comme un statut
personnel légal. Dans une telle perspective
évolutive, on peut comprendre que (bien
plus tard, au début du XVII siècle) votre
ancêtre Jean Chazal ait été juge –
originellement à La Roffin, « village »
(c’est-à-dire hameau, en parler
montagnard) éloigné, situé sur le rebord
(“fall-line”) des monts du Forez,
profondément entaillé, où de telles délégations
de propriété avaient dû se justifier économiquement
dans un tel « pays coupé ». |
| Tout
près de La Roffin, le nom de lieu « le
chazal » (prononcé “chasè” dans
le parler montagnard franco-provençal du
Forez) apparaît sur la carte IGN au 25.000ème
2732E, près de la route D110.
Comme ce lieu, La Roffin faisait alors
partie de la paroisse de Saint-Georges-en-Couzan
dont le chef-lieu est à portée de vue mais
au-delà de la gorge profonde du haut Lignon.
Le transfert administratif à la paroisse de
Saint Bonnet-le-Courreau n’intervint que
dans la deuxième moitié du XVIII siècle. |
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« MARCILLY »;
ou, « le lieu de Marcellus »: le
nom « Marcellus » ne pouvait
qu’être porteur de sens, mais à première
vue dans une tout autre perspective, pour
« nos ancêtres les Gaulois » (quelque
mille ans avant l’apparition des premiers
«chasals »). Marcellus (le « martel »
ou maillet) fut le surnom honorifique du général
romain qui (victorieux en combat singulier
en 219 avant notre ère) régla – leva définitivement
l’hypothèque de la menace gauloise face
à Rome, dans ce qui est maintenant
l’Italie du nord. |
| Son
nom est un symbole de réconciliation ultérieure
du turbulent monde celte continental (c’est-à-dire,
du point de vue de notre Gaule, d’abord
au-delà puis en deçà des Alpes), avec le
règne de la loi tel que le comprenait la
Rome conquérante. Héritier de cette réconciliation,
le christianisme romain n’en effaça pas
en tous lieux le nom-symbole quand il lui
superposa ses noms de saints. De ce côté-ci
des Alpes tout au moins, la présence du
terme comme nom de lieu associé à certains
types de relief suggère que le processus
d’identification s’était fixé sur des
appellations antérieures, celtes et pré-celtes,
de « lieux de puissance » – réinterprétant
la signification de cultes des sommets et
des eaux. |
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 |
Les
constructions qui coiffent aujourd’hui le
sommet du pic volcanique de Marcilly-le-Châtel
sont les restes de ce qui fut érigé à la fin
du XIX siècle par un riche propriétaire de
terrains miniers du sud du Forez. Il y voyait
son futur lieu de résidence, voeu personnel
jamais réalisé. Elles furent et restent en
plusieurs sens une oeuvre d’imagination,
maintenant très opportunément faite Stade Céleste
pour oiseaux du ciel, avec d’autres créatures
de la nature plus proches du sol. |
| Le
château ancien, médiéval (démoli par décret
royal au début du XVII siècle, là encore dans
le cadre d’un rappel général à l’ordre)
avait été construit sur ce même emplacement
par les Comtes du Forez pour surveiller ce qui
était alors un voisin d’envergure inquiétante,
la forteresse de Couzan, située sur les arrières
montagneux de Marcilly. Couzan revendiquait une
autre allégeance – à l’origine, à “l’Empire”,
l’empire romain devenu “germanique” et par
là proche cousin et concurrent du
“gallique” Royaume de France. |
 |
 |
Vus
depuis Rome, Celtes et Germains étaient bien
des cultures « cousines germaines »,
d’où le nom qui vint naturellement à
l’esprit des Romains lorsqu’ils arrivèrent
au contact de ce qu’après eux nous avons
appelé « Germains », par delà ces
Celtes dont ils avaient très vieille expérience,
souvent désagréable elle aussi. Le phénomène
« Marcilly » occupe ainsi un
emplacement significatif sur une ligne de
partages pluriels entre très proches parents
européens. |
Bienvenue
en ce lieu, le nôtre qui est aussi le vôtre,
de conflits et de paix!
| Marcilly-le-Châtel, |
Vendredi
20 Juillet 2007.
|
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|
WELCOME !
CHAZAL, MARCILLY: NAMES THAT « MEAN A LOT »
|
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“CHAZAL”:
literally, a “chazal” meant an “allotment”, an
apportionment of land (“chasement”,
“casement”) to an individual of any social
condition (from serf to prince), on a “life
annuity” plan. The beneficiary or “chasé”
undertook to pay the amount due yearly during all his
life, in exchange for such conditional ownership of
the apportioned land, which meant relative freedom of
management. Though
the land remained with the “lessor” (the local
seigneurie) not the “buyer” at the latter’s
death, the risky, perhaps leonine deal could indeed be
“a chance in a lifetime” to active, enterprising
spirits. |
| Occurring
as they did in the very early Middle-Ages, in
transitional, pre-feudal societies, such
“chasements” were tentative approaches to what
is now understood as legal personal status. Little
wonder that (much later, in the early XVII
century) Jean Chazal your ancestor should have
been a judge -- originally in La Roffin, a distant
“village” on the “fall-line” of the deeply
cut upper edge of the hills, where delegations of
property must have made economic sense in such
“cut-up” country (“le pays coupé”). |
 |
 |
Close
by La Roffin, “le chazal” (pronounced “chasè”
in the upper Forez franco-provençal tongue)
occurs as a place-name on detailed maps. The area
was then part of the parish of Saint-Georges-en-Couzan
beyond the deep upper Lignon gorge, not Saint
Bonnet-le-Courreau – the administrative shift
occurred in the late XVIII century. |
| “MARCILLY”;
or, “Marcellus’s place”: the name
“Marcellus” certainly meant “a lot” in a
different sense, to “our ancestors the Gauls”
(something like a thousand years before the first
chasals appeared). Marcellus (“the mallet” or
“malleus”) was the honorific surname of the
Roman general who (victorious in single combat in
219 BC) terminated --“put paid to” -- the
Gallic threat to Rome in what is now northern
Italy. |
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 |
The
name spells the ultimate reconciliation of the
turbulent Gallic (= continental Celtic) world, on
that side and later this side of the Alps, with
law and order as Rome understood it. On this side
of the Alps at least, the presence of the term as
place-name in certain types of relief suggests
that the process of identification had seized upon
earlier, Celtic and pre-Celtic, names of “seats
of power” – thus reinterpreting the
significance of local cults to deities of mountain
tops and river springs. |
| The
present structure on top of the volcanic peak of
Marcilly-le-Châtel was built in the late XIX
century by a wealthy land and mine owner from
further south in Forez. He intended it as his place
of residence, a personal wish left unrealised. It
was and is in many ways an act and work of the
imagination, now aptly turned into the Celestial
Stadium of birds of the air, with other offspring of
nature closer to the ground. |
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The
older, medieval castle (pulled down by royal decree
in the early XVII century, again in a general call
to order) was built on this very same site by the
Counts of Forez as part of their system of early
warning and defence against a then rather formidable
and embarrassing neighbour, the fortress of Couzan,
behind and above Marcilly in the hills. Couzan
claimed a different allegiance – originally to
“the Empire”, the roman empire turned
“germanic” and thus close cousin and competitor
of the “gallic” Kingdom of France. Seen from the
Roman standpoint, Celts and Germans were indeed
closely “germane” cultures, hence the name
“German” given to the latter by the Romans when
they first encountered them beyond the only too well
known Celts. Marcilly does stand, in many ways, on a
borderline between closely related varieties of
European culture. |
Welcome
to our place, your place, of conflicts and peace
| Marcilly-le-Châtel |
Friday,
July 20, 2007. |
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de
Chazal Reunion France July 2007
Sheila, who was
married to my father for about 20 years, and Bryan who she
married after my father’s death, are affectionately
known as “Grandmère and Bruncle”. They stayed with us
on Thursday night and we set off on Friday morning. The
rain poured down. The road was very wet so we went
relatively slowly but arrived in good time for the ferry,
Newhaven-Le Havre. The crossing is about 41/2 hrs. It is a
boring crossing but Grandmère and Bruncle were delighted,
there is ample comfortable seating and they slept and read
books.
We
made our way over the spectacular Pont de Normandie to
Lisieux (St Therese’s home and Basilica) where I had
arranged to stay at the largest hotel in town (l’Esperance”).
I think there were only 12 people in the place which has
108 rooms. Grandmère and Bruncle enjoy their food and
treated us to the four course menu, an excellent French
feast. Grandmère chose the snails in garlic butter for
starters..
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: Saturday:
Thelma and I went for a short walk and bought a
handle for my pioche (mattock in English)—I now
find that it is too large and does not fit! We
went to Tours on the smaller roads as we were not
required to be in Tours until dinner. We stopped
off at Sées and looked at the market (Thelma
bought me some apricot jam which I have not yet
opened) and the cathedral. It was surprising to
find such a large cathedral in such an isolated
place. We went to visit the Chateau of Lisière on
the Loire—it was interesting as we arrived just
in time for an English guide to take us around.
We found
our hotel. Dinner was to be held in a restaurant
in old Tours. Cousin Robin (de Chazal Mayer) was
in the same lodgings as Grandmère and we went
together in Bruncle’s car. Being in the old town
parking is almost impossible, Bruncle found a
disabled parking spot and used Grandmère’s
international disabled parking permit to
advantage. Having arrived I find that I know
almost everyone there. We are specially pleased to
see Dolly from Bolivia. I hope that Thelma and I
made an impressionable entrance.
Thelma
found a stall in Guildford selling hand painted
scarves and ties. We commissioned a dodo tie,
Brucle wore a dodo tie and Cousin Robin also had a
dodo tie. Perhaps it was these that made the
“impressionable entrance” or was it the
international flags of Argentina, Bolivia,
Mauritius and The UK which I had brought with me?
The French flag was nowhere to be seen.
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Sunday:
Those who wished went to the mass held in
Ballan-Miré church in the centre of the
village. We all met close-by and we were
taken to an old farmhouse, not too far away.
The sunflowers in the field opposite were
pointing our way. There were more of the
family there. I was pleased to see
Thibault’s brother Sydney and family,
Line, Océane and Alizée. Pierre from
Australia and his two children Philip and
Jacqueline, they promised to visit us in
England when the opportunity arises. The
owner of the restaurant, an alcoholic, could
no longer make the place pay. His wife began
rearing goats and selling her produce in the
local markets. To cut a long story short she
made a success of it and she now provides
good food in a relaxed farm-type ambiance.
Regrettably Tristan and Claudine had to
leave us at this stage. Henri stayed and
seemed to sleep in a different place each
night, he had a sociable time. |
We
left by coach to visit the massive Chateau of
Villandry. The gardens are extensive and the view
from the battlements impressive. I regret that one
of our number, (he shall remain nameless—I hope!)
nearly caused a riot, or just missed causing a
“diplomatic Incident”. He waved a Union Flag and
reclaimed the castle for The British! For fear of
being thrown from the battlements he beat a hasty
and ignominious retreat, and that is the last we
heard about it.
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gardens laid out in “parterre”, the
heart shaped low hedging, the variety of
vegetables and running water was shown to
advantage when the sun came out. It was an
interesting visit. When the sun comes out
the de Chazals pose for photos, except for
Jaqueline who, as an Australian, covers up.
It
was only an hour or so before the coach
would pick us up for the evening activities.
We were told to dress up for this “posh
do”.
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We
gathered at Rochefuret---I hope photos are
on the web. Thierry Brecard greeted us all
warmly; he is Christine’s husband, very
sociable, a good host and speaks excellent
English. The rain held off and the sun came
out, the bar was open and all there made the
most of the opportunity to meet each other
and catch up on the lives of their cousins.
Mike Fanya and Bruncle found a common
interest in cricket; It mattered not that we
were not all related by blood, the
camaraderie and commonality of brotherhood
was present. |
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Sunday
evening: Our
meal had been laid in the house opposite the
chateau: much thought had gone into this and our
place settings and the decoration gave the
occasion a very special atmosphere. This was the
opportunity for speeches of which there were many
in the three languages—all short and to the
point, delivered from the natural vantage point of
the stairs which rose at one side of the room.
Each speech accompanied by an appropriate national
flag. Regrettably the French had forgotten to
bring their “tricolor”—an omission I am sure
they will not repeat.
The
big suggestion is that we should all meet in South
Africa in 2011. I am sure your ideas and
suggestions will be well received, specially now
at this early stage. Send them to Jean Pierre or
write to the message board so we can all comment.
The family is multiplying fast. As the generations
expand distant cousins become ‘lost’. We all
wish to foster the family relationship; the name,
or the percentage of de Chazal blood running
through your veins, is immaterial. South Africa
should be a super venue, let us hope that it
proves possible. Richard Dold is already gearing
up for it.
Did
everyone dress for dinner? Anne Dauphine, Anne and
Christine had fabulous dresses. Anny looked a
million dollars as usual. The ladies had made a
successful effort but few of the men had
responded. Bruncle is rarely seen without a suit
and my special de Chazal tie was much admired. |
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Monday:
We are to go to Azay-le–Rideau and also
the Sleeping Beauty castle of Rigny Ussé.
Azay is a beautiful place in the sunshine
but it is very overcast and dull so is not
seen to best advantage. Grandmère
clambers all over and also joins me in a
quick stroll round to see the moat and the
castle from a slight distance.
One
castle is quite a lot in one day but Rigny
Ussé was also excellent. Wonderful
tapestries and all the rooms were animated
by dummies dressed in costume through the
ages; lovely materials and complex
embroidery. On the top floor is the
depiction of Sleeping Beauty. I think the
original author of the legend actually
lived in this castle. In the roof we could
see something of the construction methods;
really complex carpentry.
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The
weather was not hot and sunny, I believe a
bar-b-q had been organised, no problem, we
found our places inside and had a good
meal before returning to our hotels.
Rochefuret
once again was our host for the evening,
the drink flowed and I do not remember
talking to all those I wished to---time
seemed short. I was very pleased to have
the honour of sitting next to Tante
Claire, she has high standards, rules the
roost and has a great sense of humour. My
father, Cyril, admired her greatly and
always remembered her kindness towards him
in the 1930’s. Claire could have spoken
of those days but she clearly lives in the
21th Century and has her feet
on the ground. She was delighted that
Rochefuret could play its part in
fostering family unity.
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Tuesday:
Activities on this last day were curtailed
as most wished to return to Paris. The
group had already seen several departures.
Thelma and I went to Balzac’s museum in
a nearby Chateau which was interesting.
There were less than 20 of us for lunch
held in grand style in The Chateau.of
Rochefuret |
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ADDENUM
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I
have many regrets. There were those who I
would so much have enjoyed to see once
again.
David
Ardil: I was at school with him. Thelma
and I had spent some time with his wife
Nellie in Charlotte. I was sorry to miss
them and their family. Last year Thelma
and I saw his sister Caroline in Norwich
and our son, Toby, visited his mother Mado
in Italy. Jacques (Poutet de Chazal)
tells me that he shared a table with David
and enjoyed his company. I have never met
Jacques, whose life story is touching
(some of his story is on the de Chazal
web) .My father lived for a while in Le
Cannet where Jacques now lives, and I know
the area quite well. Jacque’s wife
Simone is unwell and we wish her good
health.
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I
understand the reasons why the South
Americans could not be there. They were
missed. Marilyn, Robin, Thelma and I
specially missed Eliana from Bolivia and
of course Lucio and Jenny from Argentina
whom we had visited in 2002. I still
remember Jenny’s yellow dress in
Charlotte. The Galland family had left
before we arrived, my father often spoke
of them and I have never met them. On the
other hand Gérald de Senneville knew my
father and I was pleased to see him. |
| Uncle
Dick’s (Richard de Chazal’s) family
was well represented with Julien from
Australia, Bertrand from Mauritius and
Dennis from Canada and Paul and Paul
Guillaume from Paris. Julien is convinced
that we will not see him at the next
reunion but he has said this before so I
am not sure if I believe him, we wish him
well.
Suzanne
will, I hope, take back happy memories to
her family in Missouri USA. Her sister
Claire stayed behind to care for her
parents, Mark and Eva. Thibault’s
girlfriend Saga was in Sweden visiting her
parents, I think Thibault was missing her
and I was sorry not to meet her, I have
seen a photograph of her, she has dark
hair.
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There
was certainly a younger element at
Rochefuret Yves,Georgeou,Roxana Maximo and
Montserrat amongst others, all busy people
but it would have been lovely to see a
whole crowd, complete with babies and
children. Makes me think that a week
camping should be organized for them;
Grandparents staying in hotels not too far
away could take over the babies and
bar-b-q while the parents go out to play
in the evening
Apart
from Dorrie and her daughter there were
few whom I was not aware of. Carosin
Baissac Robert and Wiehe, are just some of
the well known names which were not
represented. Neither the name nor the
percentage of de Chazal blood is
important, what is required is a will to
be amongst Family and to feel the unity
which exists at these reunions.
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| Mike
and Gilly Dudgeon were busy with
Nicola’s wedding plans. Thelma and I
were privileged to be at the “meet the
prospective Bride and Groom party” held
in grand surroundings in Central London
where Gemma gave us a professional
rendition of a classical song. They are
fun and we missed them in France. |
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FINALLY
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Thanks
are due to Anne-Dauphine who worked so
hard. I do not know for sure, but I think
that she had little help from anyone apart
from the de Grivel family in Paris and
Rochefuret. Tante Claire for hosting so
many events and Francois for starting
these reunions about 20 years ago.
Jean
Pierre and Anny whose quiet diplomacy and
encouragement (and perhaps obstinacy) in
the background has had a huge influence on
our reunion which has enjoyed a success
exceeding our expectations.
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From
what we heard thanks are also due to the
Mayor of Marcilly and all the Chazals of
the region for their wonderful welcome to
the de Chazal Family. Thelma and I
obviously regret not being at this
highlight of the festivities.
Thank
you also for being at the 2007 Reunion and
reading this. Thelma and I were happy to
meet you and will always enjoy hearing
from you.
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Texte de Jean-Pierre de Chazal - Translation in English:
Christopher de Chazal - Traducción en español : Silvia Hlawaczek
FIN DU CHAZFEST EN APOTHEOSE
(un compte-rendu complet est disponible sur la page
Chazfest France 2007 du site familial)
Dans
le concert des 3500 familles nobles de France, celle des Chazal
présente un parcours original fait de conquérants, d'innovateurs,
d'intellectuels, de personnages aux caractères trempés et hors
du commun. Aussi, comment ne pas évoquer Regis de Chazal
(1854-1935), qui meurtri par la disparition tragique de ses
deux fils, avait acquis le domaine de la Rochefuret à Ballan-Miré,
près de Tours. C'est dans ces lieux que Claire de Grivel, sa
petite fille, actuelle propriétaire, a accueilli d'une
simple et belle maniere sa famille désormais dispersée aux
quatre coins du monde et parlant 3 langues différentes. Le cocktail
de bienvenue eut lieu dans le salon du batiment principal. Un
excellent diner fut servi dans des assiettes decorées par
Anne Dauphine de Grivel dans la maison annexe que Regis
avait fait construire.Tous ces évènements et chaque moment passé
ensemble, ressérerent nos liens famliaux.
CHAZFEST
ENDS ON HIGH NOTE (a full account
can be seen at “Chazfest France 2007” of The Family Website)
Among
the 3500 Noble Families of France the de Chazal family stands out
as having trod a special path through life due to their fighting
spirit, innovators, intellectuals and those with a special
character unseen elsewhere. Just
consider Regis de Chazal (1854-1935) who, shattered by the tragic
disappearance of his two sons, acquired the estate of Rochfuret at
Ballan-Miré, close to Tours. It was here that Claire de Grivel,
his grand daughter and present owner, simply and elegantly
welcomed the family; now dispersed to the four corners of the
world, speaking three different languages. The welcoming cocktail
party took place in the drawing-room of the principle building. An
excellent dinner was served on plates decorated by Anne-Dauphine
de Grivel in the adjoining house that Regis had had built. All
these events and every moment spent together reinforced our family
bonds.
LA
CHAZFEST TERMINA CON ALTA NOTA
(un completo recuento se puede ver en “Chazfest Francia
2007” del Web site de la familia)
Entre las 3500 nobles familias de Francia que la familia de de
Chazal es reconocida hacia fuera como gente con una trayectoria
especial en la vida debido a su espíritu de lucha, innovadores,
intelectuales y ésos con un carácter especial no visto en otra
parte. Sólo considerar a Regis de Chazal (1854-1935) quien,
dolido por la desaparición trágica de sus dos hijos, adquirió
el estado de Rochfuret en Ballan-Miré, cerca de Tours. Fue aquí
que Claire de Grivel, su nieta y actual dueña, dio una elegante y
sencilla bienvenida a la familia; ahora dispersa por las cuatro
esquinas
del
mundo, hablando tres
idiomas distintos. El coctel party de bienvenida tuvo lugar en la
sala
del
edificio principal. Una excelente cena
fue servida en platos decorados por Anne-Dauphine de Grivel en la
acogedora casa que Regis había construido. Todos estos
acontecimientos y cada momento pasados juntos reforzaron nuestros
lazos de la familia.
Click
Here to Go To More Chazfest 2007
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