French Azilum PA
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Description: French Azilum, located in northeastern Pennsylvania, was a settlement established in 1793 by French aristocrats fleeing the turmoil of the French Revolution. Nestled along the Susquehanna River, the site was envisioned as a refuge for exiled nobles, including the possible arrival of Queen Marie Antoinette, although she never came. The settlement featured log cabins, a chapel, and a grand house known as "La Grande Maison," which was intended for the queen. Despite its initial promise, the community struggled to thrive due to harsh winters, isolation, and financial difficulties. By the early 1800s, many settlers had moved on, and the site eventually fell into decline. Today, French Azilum is a historic site, offering visitors a glimpse into this unique chapter of American and French history through preserved structures and interpretive programs.