Masnières: A Historic Commune in Northern France
Nestled in the heart of the Nord department, Masnières is a serene commune located in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France. Known for its strategic geographical position and its poignant connection to World War I history, this small town offers a glimpse into the administrative and military heritage of the region.
Administratively, Masnières falls under the arrondissement of Cambrai and the canton of Le Cateau-Cambrésis. It is part of the CA Cambrai intercommunality, contributing to the local governance and development of the surrounding area.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Location: Nord department, Hauts-de-France region, France.
- Population: 2,689 residents (as of 2023).
- Land Area: 10.97 square kilometers.
- Elevation: Ranges from 54 to 119 meters, with an average of 62 meters.
- Historical Significance: Site of critical actions during the 1917 Battle of Cambrai.
Geography and Administration
Masnières covers a total area of 10.97 km², with a population density of approximately 245.1 people per square kilometer. The terrain is characterized by a gentle elevation gradient, peaking at 119 meters. The commune is governed by a mayor, with Francis Noblecourt serving the 2020–2026 term.
The town operates within the Central European Time (CET) zone, shifting to Central European Summer Time (CEST) during the daylight savings period. Its official postal code is 59241, and it is identified by the INSEE code 59389.
Historical Significance: The Battle of Cambrai
The history of Masnières is deeply intertwined with the events of the First World War, specifically the Battle of Cambrai in 1917. On November 20, the first day of the battle, British forces briefly captured the town.
For twelve days, the British held Masnières to protect vital bridgeheads located between the town and Marcoing. This strategic hold was eventually broken when British forces withdrew under the pressure of a heavy German counter-attack.
Today, the town serves as a site of remembrance. Several landmarks managed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (an organization dedicated to commemorating military personnel of the Commonwealth) honor those who fell in these actions. Notable sites include:
- The Masnières Newfoundland Memorial
- The Masnières British Cemetery
- The Marcoing British Cemetery
Demographic Trends
The population of Masnières has remained relatively stable over the last several decades, experiencing slight fluctuations. After a period of growth between 1968 and 1990, the population saw a dip in 1999 before recovering and stabilizing around the 2,700 mark in recent years.
| Year | Population | Annual Growth Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1968 | 2,351 | — |
| 1982 | 2,655 | +1.18% |
| 1999 | 2,525 | −0.77% |
| 2017 | 2,717 | +0.50% |
| 2023 | 2,689 | −0.17% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Masnières located?
Masnières is a commune located in the Nord department of the Hauts-de-France region in northern France, specifically within the arrondissement of Cambrai.
What is the historical importance of Masnières?
The town was a strategic point during the 1917 Battle of Cambrai, where British forces held vital bridgeheads for twelve days before a German counter-attack forced their withdrawal.
What war memorials can be found in the area?
Visitors can find the Masnières Newfoundland Memorial, the Masnières British Cemetery, and the Marcoing British Cemetery, all maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
What is the current population of the commune?
As of 2023, the population of Masnières is 2,689 residents.
Who is the current mayor of Masnières?
The mayor for the 2020–2026 term is Francis Noblecourt.