Welcome to Borne n°1 de la Voie Sacrée, a significant marker on the historic route known as the Sacred Way or Voie Sacrée. This road played a crucial role during World War I, particularly in the Battle of Verdun in 1916. The Voie Sacrée was the main supply line for the French army, running from Bar-le-Duc to Verdun, ensuring that troops and materials could reach the front lines efficiently. The name ‘Voie Sacrée’ was given by Maurice Barrès, drawing a parallel with the ancient Roman Via Sacra, symbolizing the vital and sacred nature of this road to the French war effort.
The Borne n°1 is one of many milestones adorned with World War I helmets and inscribed with ‘NVS’ (Nationale Voie Sacrée), marking the route that was inaugurated by President Raymond Poincaré on August 21, 1922. These markers not only guide travelers but also serve as a poignant reminder of the immense sacrifices made during the war.
The construction and maintenance of the Voie Sacrée were monumental tasks. Workers, mechanics, and blacksmiths labored day and night to keep the road functional, ensuring a steady flow of 2,000 tons of supplies and 12,000 men daily. This logistical feat was overseen by Captain Doumenc, who is also famed for organizing the Taxis of the Marne in 1914.
During the battle, the road was constantly busy, with trucks transporting troops every 14 seconds, and sometimes as frequently as every 5 seconds. This relentless movement was crucial in maintaining French defenses, turning the tide in one of the longest and most grueling engagements of the war.
Today, the road and its markers stand as a tribute to the resilience and determination of those who fought and supported the war effort, making Borne n°1 a key piece in the broader historical narrative of World War I.
