MARCILLY LE CHATEL
Texte de Jean-Pierre de Chazal
Translation in English: Christopher de Chazal
Traducción en español : Silvia Hlawaczek
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,
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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 “gentlem
an-farmer”; he looked me in the eye and spoke frankly. It was David Ardill.
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.
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. 
« 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.
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.
WELCOME !
CHAZAL, MARCILLY:
NAMES THAT « MEAN A LOT »
“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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
The 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”.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
ADDENUM
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.
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.
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.
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.
FINALLY
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.
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.
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.
