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La Ville de Port-au-Prince, or Downtown Port-au-Prince is the city center of Haiti's capital. Nearly a million people inhabit this tiny area.

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The city of Port-au-Prince was founded in 1749. The largest of the city's commercial districts, Downtown is the location of many state and federal government facilities; and many of Port-au-Prince's tourist attractions. Similar to other central business districts in Haiti, Downtown will undergo a transformation that includes the construction of new homes, renovation of historic buildings, and arrival of new residents and businesses.

Clockwise from the north, Downtown is bound by the Croix-des-Bossales, Bél-Air, Bois-Verna, and the Bolosse areas.

PAP 1975 History

Port-au-Prince 1975.

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Miss Haiti Claudinette Fouchard-Ebony 1960 Haiti History, Vintage Black Glamour, Ebony Magazine

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Haitians dancing. Port-au-Prince, 1954

History[]

This city served as the capital of the former colony, with its initial establishments only dating back to 1749; however, a proposal for its foundation was made in 1724. Its strategic location facilitated communication with all regions of the island. The city's closeness to the picturesque Cul de Sac plain, which provided goods for its markets, contributed to its preference over Cap-Haïtien, despite the latter's favorable circumstances.

The first established part of this town, known as the former Randot habitation, is located to the north of Rue du Port or Pavée and is referred to as the ancient town. When it was decided to extend construction southward from this street, it was on the site of the Morel habitation.

The name of Port-au-Prince is attributed to Charlevoix, who reported it from the ship Le Prince, captained by André, which docked in this port in 1706. According to the Count of Estére, another account suggests that the name derives from the islets located within the port, known as Ilets du Prince, as recorded in 1860. Initially, the founder, Mr. de la Caze, referred to it as l'Hopital (the Hospital). In 1793, freedwomen, facing discrimination from the white populace, relocated from Port-au-Prince to Port-aux-Crimes. Subsequently, Polvérel renamed it Port-Républicain when he secured the planters' signatures on the declaration of their slaves' freedom. However, in 1806, during his conflict with Pétion, Christophe reverted the name to Port-aux-Crimes. Ultimately, in 1811, the name Port-au-Prince was reinstated.

Earthquakes and fires[]

Shortly after its establishment, the area was struck by an earthquake in 1751, prompting the idea to construct buildings solely from wood. A more severe earthquake on June 3, 1770, led the colonial government to mandate that all residents must build their homes using wood. Additionally, this unfortunate city frequently suffered from devastating fires, the frequency of which is immeasurable. Notable incidents include the fires in Saint-Pierre in 1784, on November 21, 1794, August 15, 1820, December 16, 1822 (Cruchon), January 9, 1843 (Pentecôte), November 10, 1845, November 14, 1849 (Berthomieux), June 12, 1857 (Jeanne Desvignes) at Place Vallière, February 28, 1865 (Theatre), May 7, 1865, March 19, 1866 (JP Hepburn), September 4, 1877 (rue Pavée), June 24, 1878 (Malary), July 4, 1879, September 22 and 23, 1883 (Boyer Bazelais insurrection), (looting), July 4, 1888 (the chamber), and July 7, 1888 (Minister Artaud). The latter two incidents led to the designation of Savane Salomon for the destroyed neighborhoods. Further fires occurred on October 30, 1907 (rue du Peuple), July 5, 1908 (Voltaire house), and July 10, 1908 (Grand Rue). The list of fires is too long to complete.

In response to the numerous fires, some property owners have opted to rebuild using masonry, resulting in the construction of very beautiful buildings. The arsenal has suffered three explosions: on February 2, 1827, September 12, 1866, and July 6, 1908. Additionally, a hurricane struck on September 28, 1820.

Public squares[]

The city is home to numerous public squares, with the most significant being Place Pétion, Place Intendance — where the new Cathedral was located— Place l'Eglise, Place Elie Dubois, Place Poste-Marchand, and Place Vallière, which features a magnificent iron market that was inaugurated on Sunday, November 22, 1891. Other notable squares include Place Geffrard, Place La Paix, the interior and exterior Cemeteries, Champ de Mars, Place Saint-Louis, and Place de la Douane. Place l'Eglise holds a particularly notable historical event: in 1802, Henriette Saint-Marc, a woman of color, was accused of having sent ammunition to the native insurgents of Arcahaie. She was arrested and sentenced to death, and on that day, two platoons of European riflemen escorted her to Place l'Eglise at 10 a.m., accompanied by her coffin, amidst a large crowd. A gallows was erected before her, and she ascended the scaffold with firmness. As her lifeless body dangled in the air, a sorrowful wail and weeping erupted from the crowd. Many women, overwhelmed by horror, abandoned the scene. The executioner and soldiers remained alone in the square. Meanwhile, Rochambeau, mocking the collective grief, hosted a grand ball that evening at the Palais National. Shortly thereafter, Mahotière was executed in the same location. These acts of violence ignited a widespread uprising among the natives against the French. It was also in this square that the guillotine was tested on Pelou.

Public fountains[]

Springs from Turgeau, Mme Leclerc, and Plaisance feed the fountains that supply water to various locations in the city, including houses, ships in the harbor, the men's and women's prisons, the military hospital, the National Palace, the Arsenal, and other public establishments. The Mr Colo and Madame Colo fountains were established on February 16, 1860.

The primary wooden church also functioned as a cathedral.

Other churches include St. Joseph, which was dedicated on April 22, 1877. In 1890, 46 legitimate children and 356 natural children were baptized there, along with 154 deaths and 27 marriages. In 1890, a total of 120 legal children and 1030 illegitimate children were baptized at St. Anne's. There were also 428 deaths and 86 marriages. The chapels include Madelaine aux Pisquettes, the Prison, Saint Alexandre a la Croix des Martyrs, Turgeau St. Louis) Sacre Coeur in Turgeau, St Francois sur le Belair, Ste Rose de Lima in Lalue, and the Institution of the brothers of Christian Instruction chapel. Churches belonging to the Protestant denomination.

On the 20th of April, 1872, the area of Morne A Tuf was established as a parish dedicated to St. Anne. The Parish of Sacre Coeur Turgeau was established in March of 1920.

Public buildings[]

The National Palace, built in 1772, was burned on December 20, 1869, when the Cacos entered Port-au-Prince. It was a beautiful building, located to the east of Place Pétion. Former 9President Salnave was shot on January 15, 1870 on its still smoking ruins, tied to a red post. The National Palace built by 15President Salomon in 1882 was blown up on March 8, 1912. The architect responsible for its design was Léon Laforestrie. The current reinforced cement palace was built by Georges Baussan in 1918. Other notable public buildings include the Prison, the Central House, the military hospital, the School of Medicine, the State Store, the Free Fire Station, the Customs House, the General Archives, the five Ministries, the hospice of St. Francois de Sales, the Gare du Nord, the Civil Court, and the Court of Cassation, as well as the National Bank, the Seminar, the Observatory, the Museum, and the Foundry. In the fiscal year 1889-90, the Foundry generated revenues of $1,714.40, while the work performed for the State totaled $4,627.43. The School of the Brothers, the Carsenes de la Garde, and the Magazin de l'Etat were repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt following each explosion at the arsenal. The Archbishop and the French asylum of St. Vincent de Paul rendered significant services. Under 26President Borno, additional constructions such as the Palace of Finance, the General Headquarters of the Gendarmerie, the City Hall, the new School of Medicine, and the Palace of Justice were established, contributing to the Capital of the Republic.

Lodges[]

The Masonic lodges in Port-au-Prince that are affiliated with the Grand Orient of Haiti include: Amitié des Frères Réunis No. 1, L'Etoile d'Haiti No. 5, Le Mont Liban No. 22, and Les Coeurs Unis No. 24. In 1812, during the siege of Port-au-Prince by Christophe, President Pétion sought refuge in the Friendship Lodge of the United Brothers to escape the enemy's artillery fire. On Rue du Center, one can observe the remnants of the Senate, while on Rue de l'Enterrement stands the palace of the Chamber of Deputies, constructed on the historic site of Sabès, where Pétion, the Republic's founder, was born on March 2, 1770. When the devastating earthquake struck the city on June 3, 1770, coinciding with Pentecost, Pétion was merely three months old. His mother, overwhelmed by fear and chaos, left him asleep in his cradle. In a moment of desperation, she called out her child's name. Despite the peril, a nurse, at the risk of her life, bravely entered the dilapidated house and successfully rescued young Alexandre. Pétion passed away as President of Haiti in Port-au-Prince on March 29, 1818, at the age of 48. In his honor, his heart was interred at Fort National, which is also referred to as Fort Alexandre.

Fort Gommier[]

Fortress situated along the northern boundary of the city of Port-au-Prince, at Bélair, with a commanding view of the Cul-de-Sac plain.

Fort Ilet[]

Fort Ilet stood as a fortress erected under the French colony on an island once known as Ilet du Prince, in the harbor of Port-au-Prince.

This lot encompassed a tile of land adorned with coconut palms and various fruit trees. The fortress had long been disarmed and served as a coal depot for the State's warships as well as those of the fast line. Mr. B. Rivière, the concessionaire of this line, had set up a forge and a repair facility for his vessels on the premises. Although he sold his establishment to the state, Mr. Rivière continued to enjoy the benefits of his property. The Courrier d'Haiti newspaper, in its edition of November 24, 1887, suggested that if someone were to establish a small restaurant there, the site could transform into a delightful destination for leisurely strolls along the harbor of Port-au-Prince.

To navigate into the port of Port-au-Prince, vessels were compelled to steer 50 fathoms south of Fort Ilet to avoid the reefs.

  • Since May 15, 1888, a new lighthouse was lit for the duration of the nights atop a round iron tower, which is painted white and situated on Fort Islet. This lighthouse features a 5th order apparatus that emits a fixed green light. Its position according to the Directory of the Bureau of Longitudes of 1888: Lat. N. 18° 33' 54"; Long. W., 74° 42' 16". The height of the light source above the fort's crest is 9.50 meters (31 feet), while its elevation above the highest tide reaches 14 meters (46 feet). The average range of the light is 18 kilometers (11 miles).
  • On January 2, 1794, Sonthonax entrusted Fort Ilet to Captain Adelou to resist Commodore Ford British Empire 42924. During the commodore's second visit to the port on May 31, Fort Ilet successfully repelled a parliamentary vessel belonging to the English general.

Fort Lacroix[]

A fort situated behind the calvary of Port-au-Prince, forming part of the northern defense line. Its southern entrance remained unobstructed. The State maintained farms in the vicinity of this fort, tended by local farmers. On December 18, 1793 Brice launched an assault on the fort and successfully seized it amidst the Cacos' takeover of Port-au-Prince.

Fort Lerebours[]

Located in Port-au-Prince, at Portail Léôgane, the southern end of the Grande Rue. It was first of all a redoubt; under President Boyer, it was restored, as it is today, by General Lerebours.

• On February 5, 1802, when the French army landed at Lamentin, General Boudet sent Calvary Colonel d'Henin to Fort Leogane (Lerebours) with the mission of receiving the submission of the troops who occupied it. Lamartiniere appeared in the redoubt and prepared the combatants. Colonel d'Henin, arriving at the foot of the fort, asked to speak to the one in command. Lamartiniere introduced himself. D'Henin threw his sword away from him, and asked to enter the fort in the midst of his compatriots: "We come together Brothers, to increase, by mixing with you, the number of defenders of the fatherland."- a No! no ! cried the soldiers. Boudet called D'Henin. Only thing heard was this command: "Grenadiers, forward to the bayonet!" At the same instant Magny arrived: "Halt", he cried, "halt, my friends, my brothers!" by addressing the French. His voice was muffled by the noise of the drums; the French column had arrived at the foot of the fort. "Fire! Fire!" Magny ordered. Death ravaged the ranks of the French. The column was pushed back under the machine-gun, leaving the road strewn with corpses.

The French squadron, embossed along the reefs which separate the two harbors, after having silenced Fort Sainte-Claire, directed its fire at Fort Leogane (Lerebours); the projectiles went, falling beyond the redoubt. The French returned to the charge. In the middle of the grapeshot and a hail of bullets, General Boudet advanced at the head of his grenadiers, the bayonet in front. He mounted the assault, and removed the redoubt. Without losing a moment, he entered the city.

• General Antoine Lerebours, commander of the district of Port-au-Prince for 12 years, under President Boyer, was buried there, as well as other notables.

• Guerrier Macombe, an officer devoted to President Salnave, had him rescued, near the entrance to the Cacos in Port-au-Prince, on December 18, 1869. The Bois-de-Chène flows at the foot of the fort, to the south.

Grande-Rivière[]

Grande-Rivière, formerly the sixteenth rural section of the Port-au-Prince commune, was situated between the commune itself and Croix-des-Bouquets, within the expansive Cul-de-Sac plain. It was home to a rural school and is nourished by the Grande Rivière du Cul-de-Sac, which supplied water to numerous sugar plantations in the area. The irrigation system that greatly benefited the Cul-de-Sac plain was established by the colonial government under Larnage and Maillard in 1730. The Grande Rivière du Cul-de-Sac originates at Morne la Selle, near Boucan Brou, traverses the Cul-de-Sac plain, and ultimately empties into the sea to the east of Port-au-Prince Bay. Upon assuming power, President Legitime envisioned the construction of a metal bridge at this location, to be financed by the National Bank of Haiti, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing civil war. This bridge was planned to span 60 meters. The necessary materials were already in progress, and it was merely a matter of assembling them, a task that would fall to the (then) current government.

Laveaux[]

Laveaux habitation was situated in the commune of Port-au-Prince within the Cul-de-Sac plain. The Etoile habitation, along with the Barbancourt distillery, was derived from this location.

Montalais[]

The Montalais district represents an area extending from Rue Pavée to the Lycée National and beyond.

  • On November 21, 1791, during the conflict between the white royalists and the freedmen of Port-au-Prince, Captain Douyon, stationed at Montalais, facilitated the retreat from Beauvais by intercepting Caradeux, who was attempting to encircle the government palace.
  • Montalais was originally settled by royalists. Following the insurrection led by Boyer Bazelais in Port-au-Prince on June 30, 1879, the government positioned a cannon in Montalais to dislodge the insurgents who were concealed in the houses along Rue Pavée, from where they were firing upon government soldiers and civilians.

Morne l'Hôpital[]

Other places named Hopital:
Morne l'Hôpital, Gonaïves
Hôpital, old rural section of Santiago, DR; In 1840 the culture consisted of a few small places for food and the breeding of cattle.
Fort l'Hôpital, Les Cayes
Fort l'Hôpital, Jacmel
Fort l'Hôpital, Tortuga

Morne l'Hôpital, rising to an elevation of 2 meters (6.5 feet), is situated to the southeast of Port-au-Prince and extends towards the tip of Lamentin. The rural areas of Bellevue are found in this vicinity, providing a commanding view over Turgeau.

• In 1802, Morne l'Hôpital was seized by Caradeux, Germain Frère, and Duchemin Adam, individuals of African descent who endeavored to redirect the waters flowing from the hill towards Port Républicain by blocking the canals. Adam and Marie-Jeanne pillaged plantations in opposition to the French forces.

• By 1812, President Pétion ordered General Frédéric to occupy Morne l'Hôpital with the 12th regiment and the national guard from the plains to thwart any attempts by Christophe's troops to encircle Port-au-Prince from this direction. Field Marshal Guerrier subsequently positioned himself opposite Frédéric.

Place Geffrard[]

Place Geffrard, A public square situated in Port-au-Prince, bordered by Courbe, Magasin de l'Etat, and Rue des Miracles. An iron kiosk for military music was established during the administration of 8President Geffrard. In 1880, 13President Salomon renamed it Place de la Paix. An expansion initiative was undertaken in 1890 under the direction of Minister Clément Haentjens.

Place l'Intendance[]

Place de l'Intendance (English: "Stewardship Square") is a public square located in Port-au-Prince, to the south of the Cathedral. Several fountains flow beneath it, situated opposite the Church market. In April 1793, a guillotine was erected in the Place de l'Intendance, where it was used on a native of Rouen named Pelon, who had been sentenced to death by a military court. A large crowd gathered to witness the operation of this dreadful device. When Pelon's head fell into the basket, a scream of horror erupted from the crowd, which then surged towards the gruesome instrument and dismantled it.

Place Pétion[]

Place Pétion is a public square situated in Port-au-Prince, directly across from the national palace. The northern facade features the newly constructed building housing five ministries. Surrounding the square are trees, originally planted during 9President Salnave's administration, which extend their lush branches. At the center stands the masonry Altar of the Fatherland, erected by 13President Salomon, alongside the tomb of 1President Pétion.

The original national palace was destroyed by fire in December 1869 during the Cacos' entrance into Port-au-Prince. Subsequently, a new palace was constructed in 1882 by 13President Salomon, located to the north of the former structure.

• On Friday, September 28, 1888, rumors spread throughout the city that General Séïde Thélémaque, a member of the provisional government and the Minister of War, was planning to seize the national palace, which had been under the guard of General Anselme Prophète since President Salomon's departure. It was reported that ammunition had been distributed to his Northern troops stationed around Pétion Square. Many believed that General Séïde, under pressure from his financial backers and supporters, intended to declare himself president. There were also claims that he would be attacked during the night by the followers of 14Légitime. A panic ensued, prompting citizens to rush to arm themselves. Meanwhile, other members of the provisional government worked tirelessly to prevent a clash between the Northern troops and the citizens, but their efforts proved futile.

General Séide received the visitors with hostility in his camp, issuing threats that set a tense atmosphere. Later that evening, around 7 PM, four gunshots rang out from his camp. Whether it was due to a perceived attack or specific orders given to them, the northern soldiers stationed in front of General Séide's residence, on the south side of the square, retaliated with a barrage of gunfire directed at the national palace's guards. Troops from the North, including those led by Generals Bottex and Saint Fleur Paul, swiftly advanced toward the national palace post. Positioned behind the palace's enclosing wall, they faced a relentless onslaught of bullets and machine gun fire, which left them in a state of chaos. General Séide was struck by three bullets and fell dead during the confrontation.

The palace garrison consisted of just 93 men, with 8 sustaining injuries. In stark contrast, the northern forces were reported to exceed 1,000 troops, with estimates suggesting their numbers could be as high as 3,000, resulting in significant casualties on their side.

The following morning, Anselme Prophete retrieved 8 flags belonging to the northern forces, which were found leaning against the outer wall of the palace. In a public statement, the provisional government denounced the political schemers who had meticulously orchestrated the trap that ensnared the unfortunate general, who had been misled by their counsel. They honored him with a grand funeral and initiated an investigation. Cities like Cap-Haïtien, Gonaïves, and Port-de-Paix rose up in arms, seeking retribution for the assassination of Séide, which they blamed on his presidential rival, 14General Légitime.

Absolutely not! General Légitime did not orchestrate these events. The primary instigators were the citizens of Port-au-Prince, who grew weary of witnessing an army from the North repeatedly invade their city whenever they took up arms. Additionally, disloyal individuals sought to undermine Seide's authority to install Légitime in power. Furthermore, there were likely those who supported Seide, eager to get back what they lost when Légitime was considered.

Under 26President Borno's leadership, Place Pétion underwent a remarkable transformation. Efforts were made to enhance this location, rendering it one of the most beautiful spots in Port-au-Prince, capable of capturing the admiration of many. A presidential decree subsequently designated it as Place de l'Independence. In the center, a magnificent mausoleum was constructed, encircled by flowerbeds and a splendid lawn, housing the remains of Dessalines and Pétion, which were transported there. On January 3, 1926, during the inauguration of this mausoleum, President Borno, accompanied by his Ministers and a significant number of public officials and friends, delivered the following address:

My dear fellow citizens,

It is with great honor that the current Government will be recorded in our Public Annals for having erected this monument of heartfelt gratitude and genuine affection on this historic square, now known as Independence Square, in tribute to two courageous individuals who laid the foundations of the Haitian nation.

Although they valiantly fought against each other during the civil war, a conflict that postponed our Liberation, they eventually recognized their errors, extended their hands in reconciliation, and ultimately achieved National Independence. Later, the criminal politicians succeeded in dividing them; and then the Pont-Rouge catastrophe occurred!

They died enemies, yet, Gentlemen, united in brotherhood, they had proven to be a formidable force. It is their collective valor that has granted Haiti the distinguished honor of being the second free and independent Republic on the New Continent. Through their audacity, Haiti dared to stand as a beacon of freedom amidst the widespread oppression of the era, proudly declaring itself a Republic of former slaves!

They died enemies; And it seemed that this enmity had cast a fatal shadow over the existence of the people created by them; because for over a century, their descendants have grappled with disunity, engaging in unworthy disputes and violent chaos. Consequently, the challenge we face today, as their descendants, is indeed, Gentlemen, one of a second liberation—not from a congenial foreign power, but from ourselves, burdened by our own fractured history, of divisions and calamities, that weighs heavily on our social life, on our political life, our economic development, on our national existence itself.

Will we ever attain this liberation?

Absolutely; let us hold onto this unwavering hope. We will undoubtedly reach this goal if we embrace the profound teachings of our Ancestors, focusing on restoring our Independence not through bloodshed and animosity, but by fostering a higher, genuinely Christian civilization. In our cherished homeland, we must unite our intellects and our hearts.

It is with this conviction that the Government has erected this monument, this sanctuary, to honor the founders of our nation, reconciled in their resting place, united by our shared mistakes. They will serve as our inspiration, guiding us in a new, peaceful struggle—the sacred fight against ignorance and poverty, a battle rooted in labor and order rather than war and devastation, a quest for true freedom instead of oppressive tyranny. By undertaking this solemn act, the Government aims to revive the vital concept of Haitian Unity, which had been fading into abstraction. To ensure that this concept permeates our consciousness and transforms us, it has been rendered tangible through the use of stone and marble. The Government has ensured its visibility by presenting it openly in the public square, allowing it to be be seen with our eyes and touched with our hands!

As we anticipate this profound symbol, this sacred invitation to resonate within every conscience, and while we await the enlightening teachings of our ancestors to nurture our spirits, the Government remains steadfast in its challenging mission. It forges ahead, undeterred by falsehoods and resolute against defamation, with an unwavering focus on the bright horizon of progress that ascends for everyone, much like the benevolent sun bestowed by God.

Place Vallière[]

This public square is bordered by Grande Rue, Rue Courbe, Rue des Fronts-Forts, and Rue des Césars. It is also referred to as le Marché en Bas. The fountain located at its center originates from the French colonial period.

• On February 5, 1802, during the French army's landing at Lamentin, following their capture of Fort Léogane (Lerebours) from Lamatinière, General Boudet's French Empire 1802 forces entered the town. However, as they advanced along the main street, they were abruptly halted by a fierce attack from the 8th colonial troops stationed at Place Vallière. The French forces charged at them, prompting a retreat to Fort Saint-Joseph (Lamarre).

• On March 16, 1804, a white pharmacist named Saladin, residing at Place Vallière, was assaulted in his home by soldiers loyal to Dessalines, who intended to kill him. He was fiercely defended by his son, a young man of color and a soldier in the 4th Native regiment. As the soldiers attempted to break down the door to his room, Saladin chose to poison himself.

• The iron market at Place Vallière, constructed by Mr. A. Bobo on behalf of 15President Hippolyte's government, was inaugurated on Sunday, October 22, 1891, at a cost of 135,000 dollars in gold.

Portail Saint-Joseph[]

Fort located at the north gate of the main street of Port-au-Prince. The same as Fort Lamarre.

• In January 1792, the gens de couleur camped at Croix-des-Bouquets, sent Pinchinat to Port-au-Prince to ask a truce to the whites, municipality; instead of letting him enter the city, as was agreed, they had shot him with all the cannons of Fort Saint Joseph. Nevertheless Pinchinat returned safely to the Croix-des-Bouquets.

• On June 5, 1794, Blaise, lieutenant colonel of the legion of the Ouest, delivered the fort to the English. A colonel named Béranger went there that day, and in the midst of all the whites who had called the English in the colony, he read a list of thirty planters, his old friends, who were, he said, republicans. He began with Misters Goy and Gau. He had them thrown into the pit after having burned their brains with his own hand, and said to each of them: "Republican, make the jump from the Roche Tarpéienne". He had thus killed all those unfortunates who had betrayed the country. If General Whyte, arriving in the fort at 8 o'clock in the evening ... had put an end to this frightful carnage. The English general had him arrested; the next day he published a proclamation by which he condemned his crimes. Béranger fled; he drowned in the Voldrogue on his way to Jérémie.

• On February 5, 1802, when the French army landed at Lamentin, the garrison of the fort had been won by the citizens. The 3rd colonial had pulled from the place Vallière on the French, and had retired in the fort. The garrison let the soldiers of the 3rd penetrate in the middle of it, they, feeling no distrust, and believing themselves with brothers, suddenly turned the cannons against them, at the same time the French who already surrounded the fortification, summoned them to lay down their arms, which was done.

• In 1807, after the battle of Sibert, in the midst of the resistance preparations that the troops were making at the Saint Joseph Gate against Christopher's army, a woman, Manette Bonnaire, who had her son in the army, came to the Saint Joseph gate ask what had become of General Pétion. "What do you ask for your son's news," they tell him. My son! Re-minded this Spartan mother, shrugging her shoulders, what does her life matter to the republic? It is the general's life which is precious. "The public danger said that it was feared that Pétion would remain among the dead at Sibert, she fell unconscious. Fort Saint Joseph pushed back Christophe's troops in 1807 and 1812. The heart of General Lamarre, the defender of Môle Saint-Nicolas was buried at Fort Saint Joseph, since called Fort Lamarre. Other officers were also buried there.

• St. Joseph's Church, built west of the fort, was the most beautiful of the republic. Burned, it was rebuilt. The rural sections of Pont-Rouge, Varreux, Saint Martin, Grand Riviere depend on the parish of Saint Joseph and the posts of Pont-Rouge and Croix-des-Missions.

• On the other side of the Saint Joseph Gate is La Saline, where in 1882 many land concessions were made, to the point where today a hamlet called Bourg Salomon has been built with a very dense population. The population between the gate and the Red bridge is also very active. Many municipalities do not matter. There is a public fountain.

• The abbot Guilard, cure of the Saint-Joseph parish, died October 15, 1888. The commune of Port-au-Prince, grateful for the services rendered to the country by this green priest, gave him the day after the official funerals. Father Guillard occupies an eminent rank among the founders of the church and the Saint Joseph parish. He contributed to the purification of morals in this district, which had been completely delivered to him. His body was buried the next Sunday on the right of the altar of the Virgin.

• On February 5, 1925, the Cadastral Commission announced that it had asserted ownership over 173 parcels of Port-au-Prince's Laganetiere habitation for the benefit of the State.


PAP 1975a History

Port-au-Prince 1950.

Downtown Port-au-Prince Map 12119 Michael vedrine

Map of Downtown Port-au-Prince

Pap 11719

Downtown Port-au-Prince at night

Pap514
Rue Capois Champs de Mars 910

Rue Capois, Champs de Mars

Neighboring sections
North Rn1 mICHAEL vEDRINE
1re Varreux, CDS
Northeast
1re Saint-Martin,
DEL
〰️West〰️
Baie de Port-au-Prince
Downtown
 Port-au-Prince
East
1re Turgeau
Southwest
3e Martissant
 
South link = Route Nationale 2
2e Morne l'Hôpital

Timeline[]

The accounts that history transmits to us regarding the capital of the Republic of Haiti are extensive.

• It reveals that in January 1890, this city served as the venue for a provincial assembly organized by the planters of the West, aimed at both advancing the revolution and undermining Governor Peinier. In response to the growing unrest, Peinier, compelled to pledge allegiance to the nation, the law, and the king, established a coalition of loyalists to the old regime and the Metropolis. Each member of this coalition donned a white pompom on their hat, symbolizing royalty. Conversely, the revolutionaries adopted red pompoms, while the freedmen chose yellow. On July 30, Colonel Mauduit forcibly disbanded the Western Assembly, and he was subsequently assassinated on March 4, 1791.

• A significant confrontation occurred on November 21, 1791, between the freedmen led by Beauvais and the white population, lasting from 2 PM until nightfall. During this conflict, Praloto set the city ablaze. The colored men who had remained neutral, along with their families, were brutally killed in the streets, while numerous shops were looted. Out of 30 city blocks, 27 were devastated, and 500 houses were destroyed, resulting in losses estimated at 50 million livres Tournois. The town was besieged by freedmen who redirected the waters of Turgeau and Martissant, leading to a dire food shortage and severe famine.

• In March 1793, the freedmen of Cul-de-Sac once more blockaded the area, with Beauvais positioned on the plain side and Lalue, alongside Rigaud, situated on the Bizoto side. The mayor of the town, Borel, committed so many crimes there that Sonthonax resolved to open his doors.

• On April 5, 1793, Sonthonax and Polverel arrived from Saint-Marc to lay siege to the city. Governor Delassale established his camp at Portail Saint Joseph, Beauvais in Bizoton. With the city surrounded by both land and sea, a demand for surrender was issued, leading to an assault on April 12. Borel managed to secure the release of the residents by paying a ransom of 366,000 pounds; he then departed Port-au-Prince, traveling to Jacmel before setting sail for Jamaica. On April 14, the civil commissioners entered Port-au-Prince, which was deemed a rebel stronghold. Blanchelande, commanding colored troops under Fontanges, tightened the blockade by both sea and land. Despite the resistance from Praloto and Dumontellier, the city ultimately capitulated. On July 5, the coalition forces made their triumphant entry. Dumontellier faced deportation, while Praloto was arrested and taken to Saint-Marc, where he was killed in the harbor.

• On September 22, 1793, Polverel proclaimed the general freedom of slaves at the Place d'armes.

• In January and February of 1794, Commodore Ford British Empire 42924 made two appearances, urging the city to surrender to the British forces. However, due to Sonthonax's French Empire 1802 stance, he ultimately retreated.

• On March 17, 1794, at 11 p.m., General Montbrun, leading the Western Legion along with artillery, advanced towards the barracks of the 48th regiment, commanded by Desfourneaux, who unexpectedly opened fire with machine guns. The 48th, a white regiment loyal to Sonthonax, was compelled to evacuate along with Desfourneaux to France.

• On May 31, General Whyte British Empire 42924 and Commodore Ford came to blockade Port-au-Prince. They bombarded the place with canons and directed three columns against it and captured Fort Bizoton. Unable to maintain their position, Sonthonax and Polverel retreated to La Charbonnière (Pétion-ville). On June 5, an English force of 4,000 troops entered Port Republicain, firing upon everyone they encountered in the streets. General Whyte fortified the city to the east and south, establishing a stronghold at Morne à Tuf in the center of the interior cemetery square and at the summit of the hill to the east on what was then the Covin habitation. This fort became known as Fort National.

• On December 5, 1797, Pétion laid siege to Port-Republicain from the Gros Morne side.

• On April 23, 1798, General Maitland British Empire 42924 initiated the evacuation of the place, loading his munitions onto ships. A treaty was established in the city on April 30, involving Adjutant General Huin, who acted under the authority of Toussaint Louverture, and Adjutant Nightingall, an officer of the British army aboard the ship Abergaverny. The agreement stipulated that the English would relinquish control of the cities of Port Republicain, Saint-Marc, and Archaie to General Toussaint, allowing sufficient time for the British forces to withdraw without hindrance, contingent upon Toussaint's commitment to protect the lives and properties of the remaining residents of the colony. Both parties were to suspend hostilities for a duration of five weeks.

• By May 8, General Maitland had completed the loading of all his munitions and troops. The following day, he departed for Môle. On the afternoon of May 9, General Laplume assumed control of Port Republicain. Shortly thereafter, Toussaint dispatched Colonel Christophe Mornay of the 8th Colonial to oversee the city, arriving himself amidst a grand celebration. The overall command of the district was entrusted to Adjutant General Huin, a white settler. Following the defeat of Rigaud in August 1800, approximately fifty Riguadin prisoners, including both civilians and soldiers, were present in Port Republicain. They were executed with bayonets at the Croix des Martyrs (Martyrs' Cross).

• On February 3, 1802, the Leclerc expedition's squadron reached the vicinity of the city, and expressions of joy were evident among the populace. The oppressive rule of Toussaint had left many weary. Lamartinière, the commander of the 3rd Colonial, known for his fierce temperament and bravery, implored the citizens to take up arms in defense of their city, but his pleas fell on deaf ears. He warned that the French were coming to reinstate slavery, yet the residents remained convinced of France's benevolence.

Lamartinière opposed General Agé's dismissal of brigade chief Salès, who served as aide-de-camp to General Boudet and was responsible for delivering messages to the District commander.

In response to General Boudet, Agé stated that he could not make a decision regarding the city's surrender in the absence of Dessalines, the commander of the Western Division. Meanwhile, Lamartinière communicated to the French that if they abruptly landed under the orders of Governor General Toussaint Louverture, three shots from the alarm cannon would be fired, and that the signal, repeated from hill to hill, would be that of the destruction of the colony and the massacre of all white inhabitants. Enraged, he rushed to the arsenal and demanded ammunition from Director Lacombe, who refused.

In a fit of rage, he exclaimed in a thunderous voice, “Since it is so, die, miserable colonist,” and shot Lacombe in the head. This act of brutal determination instilled fear throughout the arsenal, resulting in the immediate surrender of all ammunition to him. The city gates were closed, Agé's command was effectively ended, and Lamartinière emerged as the sole authority in the city.

• The French military forces made their landing at Lamentin on February 5. Fort Bizoton capitulated, while Fort Leogane (Lerebours) offered strong resistance. Following two successive assaults, the fort was captured. General Boudet entered the city and pursued the fleeing escapees.

Lamartinière, Magny, and Monpoint, accompanied by a handful of soldiers, tried to ignite fires in various neighborhoods before abandoning the place, as they were pressed for time. They began to remove boxes of silver from the treasury, but were vigorously attacked by a French battalion, leading to their defeat and subsequent flight. Boudet found himself in possesion of 2,500,000 francs (or $404,025USD, worth about $11,905,559USD in 2024's dollars). He treated both the soldiers and the local populace with kindness, restored order to the city, and ensured that the wounded, including General Pamphile de la Croix and Colonel d'Henin, received medical attention.

• On September 23, 1803, Dessalines laid siege to Port-au-Prince, establishing his headquarters in Turgeau.

• By October 10, the French were compelled to evacuate. Generals Lavalette and Lux managed to reach the harbor.

• On March 16, 1804, Dessalines ordered the execution of the French at 10 o'clock in the evening. The following day, Dessalines appointed Germain Frère as the commander of the district and Benoit as the commander of the place.

• On January 7, 1807, General Christophe blocked Port-au-Prince by land, although his troops were eventually repelled.

• On July 23, 1807, General Yayou conspired but was abandoned by his allies; he then attempted to take control of Léogâne but ultimately failed.

• On March 25, 1812, Christophe (ruler of the north) helped initiate the second siege of Port-au-Prince, commanding an army of 25,000 troops along with English engineers. General Magny, who led the king's vanguard, switched sides to support Pétion (ruler of the south). This change led to the siege being lifted on June 14.

• In August 1815, a conspiracy spread across the Cul de-Sac plain, reaching as far as Jacmel. The plot was uncovered, aiming to assassinate Pétion. Several conspirators were executed at Morne a Tuf, including Captain Celestin Manneville. Lieutenant Colonel Louis Lerebours managed to escape and fled to the mountains of Fond-Verrettes. In December, he was captured and executed in Jacmel.

• On October 6, 1816, Mrs. Fontange and Esmangard, representatives of the King of France, arrived in Port-au-Prince to discuss Haiti's independence.

• On Friday, August 30, 1822, a citizen named Darfour went to the House of Commons with a memo aimed at destroying the government. The shocking memo was read immediately, causing public outrage. Crowds arrested Darfour and several deputies from Port-au-Prince, Les Cayes, and Cap-Haitien, along with a judge and a court dean. Citizen Dugue managed to escape. The arrested individuals were imprisoned for trial, and the Chamber expelled the implicated members, replacing them with substitutes. Darfour was executed in September. He was African and recognized as a citizen of Haiti, like all people of African descent.

• Pierre André served as a senator in 1838. He faced accusations of sending anonymous letters to the 2President of Haiti, which led to his expulsion from the Senate on June 4, 1838; however, he was reinstated on September 2 of the same year. Godefroy and Rosteau represented the commune of Port-au-Prince in the first House of Commons in 1817, where Pierre André had previously held the position of president.

• On July 3, 1825, Baron de Mackau, a sea captain, arrived in Port-au-Prince bearing the subversive ordinance from King Charles X, which acknowledged Haiti's political independence.

• On March 21, 1843, The People's Army of the South entered Port-au-Prince.

• On September 9, 1843, the Dalzon conspiracy unfolded. Under the cover of night, Dalzon approached the government fort (Fort Riché) claiming to act on behalf of the commander. He was accompanied by the 7th regiment and intercepted the 3rd regiment en route to Poste Marchand before advancing to Fort National. After descending from the fort with his accomplices, Colonel Chéry Archer, the local commander, along with Commander Jacques Louis and his battalion from the 5th regiment, pursued them, calling for an end to the insurrection towards Poste-Marchand. In the ensuing confrontation, Sergeant Registre fired and Dalzon fell dead. His accomplices fled.

• The Rivierists' conspiracy occurred on September 17, 1845. The conspirators convened in Port-au-Prince at night, then proceeded to Léogâne, where their leader, Colonel Pierre Paul, was based. Terlonge, leading a column, pursued and defeated them at the city's entrance. Terlonge displayed noble conduct towards the defeated, but this was followed by numerous executions without any judicial form at Gressier, Léogâne, and at the Pont de Thor.

Port-au-Prince was the scene of a coup d'état on April 16, 1848. Upon learning of Louis Jacques' conspiracy in Aquin, an alarm cannon was fired, prompting the Zinglins to assemble at the palace. The guard opened fire on the officials and generals who had gathered, resulting in some drowning in their blood, while others managed to escape by leaping over the enclosure gates. In response to the gunfire, members of the bourgeoisie congregated by the seaside for self-defense. However, caught off guard and lacking leadership, Elie met his demise. For a duration of two days and nights, soldiers indiscriminately killed citizens in the streets. Notable figures such as Merlet, Normil Brouard, Leo Harmoniere, and Redon were among those murdered. These killings were followed by further violence in the South, where Soulouque sought to eliminate the populace through proscriptions and legal assassinations. A year later, on the same date, General Similien, the principal architect of these atrocities, was found celebrating in prison, dressed in slippers, where he ultimately died a year later.

• On July 6, 1861, at noon, six Spanish warships arrived in Port-au-Prince's harbor. Commander Escalante went ashore with an ultimatum, demanding a 21-gun salute from the government as reparation for offenses against the Spanish flag, along with $200,000 for damages caused by Dominican General Cabral on the eastern borders.

• On September 12, 1866, the arsenal was blown up at 4 a.m.

• During the night of February 22 to 23, 1867, a major plot unfolded among the riflemen within 8President Geffrard's palace tower, leading to the release of prisoners. The residence of Mr. Cesvet, the president's son-in-law, was ransacked. On one occasion, Prosper Elie and his son Justin, who had traveled to the Portail Saint Joseph fort, were killed, while the remaining conspirators managed to escape.

• In 1868, Port-au-Prince faced a siege from the Cacos, originating from La Plaine, Pétion-ville, and Carrefour. 9President Salnave mobilized the Piquets in the South, forcing the Cacos to lift the siege to fight the Piquets instead.

• On December 18, 1869, Port-au-Prince fell into the hands of Generals Brice, Dejoie, and Boisrond-Canal, who entered the port quietly with 1,200 Cacos. Salnave took refuge in the national palace; however, he was forced to retreat into the woods the following day because warship Terror kept firing cannonballs at him.

• On May 1, 1875, General Momplaisir Pierre Brice died from wounds at the Spanish consulate.

• On April 15, 1876, a riot erupted resulting in the death of Vice President S. Rameau, while 13President Domingue sought refuge in the French consulate. The following day, Lorquet was delayed in returning from Arcahaie.

• On March 14, 1878, Louis Tanis, the commander of the West department, took up arms at Fort National while the president was in the southern region. On the 18th, the rebels raised a white flag and abandoned the fort.

• On June 30, 1879, Boyer Bazelais began an armed uprising on Rue Pavée.

• On September 22, 1883, amidst the insurrection in Miragoâne, Jacmel, and Jérémie, a group of brainless young people took to the streets of Port-au-Prince and shouted: "Down with Solomon!". They discharged firearms into the air and proceeded to the district where they assassinated its commander, General Penor Benjamin, before seeking refuge in the consulates. In response, 13President Solomon ordered the looting and burning of the city's most beautiful neighborhoods. This incident occurred on a Saturday, and the following day, when it was presumed that the everything was over, the looting and burning resumed. It required an ultimatum from foreign consuls to bring an end to these barbaric acts.

• On September 27, 1888, General Seide Télémaque was assassinated in Port-au-Prince at Place Pétion.

• On August 23, 1889, following the departure of 14President Légitime the day before, the Northern and Southern armies, led by General Hyppolite, entered Port-au-Prince.

• On May 28, 1891, during a festival, General Sully Guerrier engaged in armed conflict in Port-au-Prince, where Alix Rossignol,

• On December 2, 1908, after the departure of 17President Nord Alexis, some businesses were looted overnight by a group described as the "sovereign people," which included locals, soldiers, and police. General Poitevien led a battalion of grenadiers to drive away the looters, resulting in some deaths. It was reported that after the government fell, this group engaged in banditry in Port-au-Prince, armed with rifles, continuing their plundering until a new government was established.

• In 1925, during the administration of 26President Borno, a significant number of constructions were undertaken, including the Finance Palace, the General Hospital buildings, the General Headquarters of the Gendarmerie, the School of Medicine, and the Palace of Justice. Additionally, enhancements were made at customs, and the Municipal Hotel was established, along with efforts to beautify city streets and public squares.


PAP Mariott 31819

Mariott Hotel. Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Recreation[]

PAP Statue Slave12019

Slave statue; Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Champs2pap12119

Downtown Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Grand Cimitiere 12119

Grande Cimetière, PAP

Henri Chistophe CDM 12119

Statue of Henri Christophe - Champs de Mar

Constitution Monument PAP 12119

Constitution Monument, PAP

MUPANAH 12119

MUPANAH - Port-au-prince National Museum

References[]

https://dokumen.pub/the-colonial-system-unveiled-9781781380314-9781781383049-9781781389706.html

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