Bétheny

Bétheny is a commune with 6458 inhabitants (as of January 1, 2011 ) in the department of Marne, in the Champagne -Ardenne region.

Location

Bétheny is located about five kilometers northeast of Reims and south of the airport of Reims. The place belongs to the metropolitan area of ​​the city and is connected by the D74 with the city center of Reims.

History

Nomadic tribes founded BC numerous villages around Reims, including Bétheny in the 2nd century. In the 2nd century AD, the village is run by the Roman nobility low and is called Betheneium or Betiniacum. 1870 a part of the village was razed to make room for the newly created city Neuvillette (1970 to Reims incorporated ). At this time most of the inhabitants lived by agriculture. 95 % of the area of the place was used for agriculture. After 1870, many immigrants settled in the city, who worked as a textile worker in Reims.

Is particularly proud of the place today on a large maneuver parade on m September 19, 1901 during the visit of Tsar Nicholas II and his wife Alexandra. 150,000 soldiers were involved. From 22 to August 29, 1909 also saw the first international air show with 200,000 visitors place on the outskirts of the village.

During World War I the front between Germans and French ran only 300 meters from the city limits. Bétheny was destroyed, fleeing residents and returned only after the end of the war.

Sister City

• Schauernheim, since 2006

Personalities

• René Hanriot (1867-1925), aviation pioneer