Medieval destruction 1648-1650 (≈ 1649)
Spanish devastation in Aubenton.
XVIIe siècle
Reconstruction of the hotel
Reconstruction of the hotel XVIIe siècle (≈ 1750)
Building rebuilt after the wars.
XIXe siècle
Restoration of facades
Restoration of facades XIXe siècle (≈ 1865)
Work on the former Colin Hotel.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Key figures
Jean Mermoz - Legendary aviator
Native of Aubenton, honoured by the museum.
Denis Colin - Industrial owner
Acquisition of the hotel in the 19th century.
Origin and history
The Jean-Mermoz Museum is housed in the former Colin Hotel, a house rebuilt in the 17th century on the site of a medieval house destroyed during the Spanish invasions of 1648 and 1650. Its facades, restored in the 19th century, reflect its turbulent history. The hotel was acquired by Denis Colin, owner of a local spinning plant, before becoming a communal property, offering today a heritage setting to this museum dedicated to aviation.
The museum pays tribute to Jean Mermoz, an iconic aviator born in Aubenton and major figure of the Aeropostal, nicknamed the "Archangel". His collections include photographs, personal letters, medals, period newspapers, posters and models. These objects trace the exceptional career of Mermoz, pioneer of transatlantic airlines, and illustrate his legacy in the history of French aviation.
The Colin Hotel, before becoming a museum, embodies Aubenton's industrial and architectural history. Its transformation into a cultural place is part of the development of local heritage, while celebrating an international personality. The building, marked by successive reconstructions, also symbolizes the region's resilience to past conflicts.
