Papelotte Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Papelotte Farm
Rue Du Dimont, Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium
The partly burnt down site was restored and new buildings were added after 1857.
Site information
Owner	Private
Condition	reconstructed
Site history
Battles/wars	Battle of Waterloo

Papelotte Farm (French: Ferme de la Papelotte) is a historic farm in Belgium. It is found on a country road called Rue Du Dimont. This road is in the Municipality of Braine-l'Alleud. This area is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of Brussels.

On June 18, 1815, Papelotte Farm played a key role. It was a strong defensive spot during the famous Battle of Waterloo. This battle was a major event in history.

Papelotte Farm's Role in Battle
After the Battle
Images for kids
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Papelotte Farm's Role in Battle

Papelotte Farm was part of the Anglo-allied army's defenses. This army was led by the Duke of Wellington. The farm, along with Hougoumont and La Haye Sainte, helped slow down the French army. Napoleon led the French army, known as the Grande Armée.

A Stronghold Against Napoleon

These farms were like small forts. They made it hard for Napoleon's army to advance. Napoleon had to use many soldiers to try and capture them. This wasted valuable time and resources for his army. The farms' small groups of defenders fought very well. They held their ground against much larger attacks.

Who Defended Papelotte?

Papelotte Farm was defended by soldiers from the King's Dutch Brigade. These were two Orange-Nassau regiments. They came from the Duchy of Nassau. Many German soldiers also fought in the Anglo-allied army. They made up almost half of the army's personnel.

The Battle for the Farm

Around 6:15 PM, some French troops entered Papelotte Farm. These soldiers were part of the Durutte division. The farm's defenders had run out of ammunition. They had to retreat to a safer line behind the farm.

However, the French soldiers could not go any further. They were very tired and covered in mud. They had also been fighting for a long time. They were also losing hope because the Prussian army was arriving.

Prussian Arrival and French Retreat

Papelotte Farm then helped the Prussian I Corps. This group was led by Lieutenant-General von Zieten. They arrived on the battlefield around 7:00 PM. About 30 minutes later, Papelotte and La Haye Sainte were taken by the Prussians. The French forces had left without a fight.

After the Battle

Papelotte Farm was badly damaged during the battle. Parts of it were even burned down. Starting in 1857, the farm was rebuilt. Old buildings were replaced, and new ones were added. This included an octagonal tower. Today, Papelotte Farm is home to the Poney club de la Papelotte.