Faÿ-lès-Nemours
The small commune of Faÿ-lès-Nemours is located in the Seine-et-Marne department in Île-de-France, France, close to Nemours and about 40 km from Melun. It has a rich history, marked by a succession of noble families and important land ownership changes.
In the late 11th century, Foulques de Fay made donations to the Néronville priory, establishing the area’s early recorded history. Over time, Faÿ passed through various noble hands, including Richard de Faÿ in 1255, then the Reilhac family in the 1300s, who held significant lands in the region. Later, in the 15th century, the Barton family acquired Faÿ, with notable figures like Pierre Barton expanding the estate's influence through local land acquisitions.
In 1652, Jacques du Rougé de Plessis-Bellière turned Faÿ into a marquisate, setting a period of prestige for the area. His widow, Suzanne de Bruc, and subsequent heirs continued to develop and defend the estate, which featured distinct land markers that can still be seen today.
By the 18th century, Faÿ was inherited by various prominent families, including Innocente Catherine de Rougé, who transferred it to her cousin. Following the French Revolution, the estate was sold as national property. Industrialist François Richard briefly owned it before it returned to François-Pierre-Olivier de Rougé’s family. Eventually, it passed through different hands, including that of politician Mr. Ouvre, who owned it in the 19th century.
Numerous historical records about these families remain in the departmental archives, providing insights into the legacy of Faÿ-lès-Nemours.