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Origin and history

The Napoleonic bench-rest of Bouxwiller is a typical monument of Alsace, built in the 19th century to offer a resting place for peasants going to the markets. These benches, often accompanied by lime trees, allowed to place the burdens (baskets on the head or hoods on the back) during stops. Their conception met a practical need while symbolizing a political initiative linked to Napoleon I.

These benches were erected in two main waves. The first, between 1811 and 1812, was launched by the Prefect of Bas-Rhin Adrien de Lezay-Marnésia to celebrate the birth of the King of Rome, the son of Napoleon I and Marie-Louise of Austria. The prefect encouraged the communes to install these restrooms every 2.5 km, with a bench and trees for shade, so that the travelers could say: "We owe it to the King of Rome". The costs were borne by the municipalities, some reluctant because of the local relief.

A second wave took place in 1854, under the impetus of Prefect Auguste-César West, taking up the idea of his predecessor to mark the first anniversary of the marriage of Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie. This time, the department took over the costs, facilitating the construction of 448 sandstone banks in the Vosges. These monuments, often damaged by time or neglect, were partially protected in the 1980s as part of the historical heritage.

Bouxwiller Bank, dated 1854, is an example of these Second Empire achievements. He was enrolled in the Historical Monuments in 1988, demonstrating his heritage importance. Its design, with a top slab for loads and a lower bench, reflects the agricultural uses of the era, although these practices declined with the arrival of more modern means of transport in the early twentieth century.

During the German annexation of Alsace after 1870, attempts at maintenance were ordered in 1906 and 1910, but were considered obsolete due to the evolution of modes of transport. Despite this, some banks, such as Bouxwiller's, have survived and are now protected for their historical and cultural value.

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