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The museum, just 5 minutes from Vielsalm, is dedicated to Baron Jacques of Dixmude (known as Général Jacques), a military hero in the Great War.

The museum is located on the site of the former "Ratz" barracks in Rencheux. The collections, which feature over a hundred pieces (uniforms, sabre, medals, documents...) retrace Général Jacques' life.

A little history

Born in Stavelot in 1858, Jules Alphonse Jacques enrolled as a soldier in King Léopold II's service. Sent to Congo in 1877, he founded Albertville (now called Kalemie), before returning to Belgium in 1905.

He was close to retirement when the First World War broke and was granted the post of commander of the 12th Regiment of the Line. He fought with great distinction in Sart-Tilman in Liège and Antwerp before helping to save Dixmude from falling into German hands. Despite injuring his foot and leg on the front in Yser, his bravery and leadership were remarkable. He is considered a hero by the Belgian army. In 1916, he was promoted to General then Commander of the 3rd division of the Belgian army.

After the war, he was given the title of Baron of Dixmude. He later died in 1929 at the age of 70. He was given a national funeral and buried in Vielsalm.  Many cities, including Brussels, have named boulevards, streets or squares after him.

 

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