Coupvray, France Louis Braille was born and grew up in Coupvray, France, in the stone house on the left. It is a large, solid house built in the last half of the 18th century. The Brailles also owned several farm buildings which are no longer standing and seven and a half acres of land and vineyards. The Braille family home is now a museum (Musée Louis Braille). Our pictures were taken in the mid-1990’s. You can see that the road by the Braille’s home was not paved at the time of our photos and becomes covered with lush grass as it heads out of town. Though an old bracket extending horizontally from the side of the house remains, it is empty of signage that once advertised Louis’ father’s business. Another stone building across the street to the right is stained and looks as if parts are ready to crumble. See Louis Braille's Boyhood Home on Google Maps Street View In 2008 Google Maps recorded street-level views of Louis Braille’s home town. The Musée Louis Braille (Louis Braille Museum) is clearly marked and visible on Google Maps. As in our picture, geraniums are blooming at the base of the Braille house and in the window boxes next door. Some things have changed. The road is paved up to the edge of the village. The old iron bracket now holds a sign that says “Maison Louis Braille” (Louis Braille House). The house shows signs of masonry repair. The old building across the street has been replaced by parking spaces. |