Part of a Series on Vincentian Heritage Places

Poissy, France

Use mouse wheel to zoom

St. Louise de Marillac was born in 1591 on 12 August. Her father was Louis de Marillac, Lord of Ferrires, a member of the prominent de Marillac family and was a widower at the time of Louise’s birth; her mother is unknown.

“…in the present state of our knowledge of the de Marillac family, it is evident that Louise was born out of wedlock, and that she was, by law, illegitimate… These circumstances surrounding her birth have given us a greater understanding of Louise, her personality, her sensitivity, and her insecurity.” (Source: A Woman Named Louise: 1591-1633 by Kieran Kneaves D.C.)

“The place of birth of Louise is not known, but it is most likely that her mother lived in Paris and that during her pregnancy, she had to undergo the privations* of a long siege of the city… which brought about a great famine. This might explain the fragile health of Louise and her frequent migraines.” (Source: Louise de Marillac: Come Winds or High Waters by Élisabeth Charpy D.C.)
*Privation refers to the state of being deprived of basic necessities or comforts of life, such as food, shelter, or emotional support.

“Although deprived of maternal affection, Louise was dearly loved by her father. He chose to recognize her, and to give her his name… It is speculated that Louise was placed in a monastery immediately after birth, as this would provide a home for the infant that was as discreet as it was honorable and safe. Such disposition of wellborn little girls was common at the time… The hypothesis is that Louise spent all of her childhood, from 2 months old until 12 years old, within the convent at Poissy.” (Source: A Woman Named Louise: 1591-1633 by Kieran Kneaves D.C.)

“There she received the affection of her great-aunt, Mother Louise de Marillac, a Dominican Sister and a very human woman. She liked to share with Louise her love of culture and painting. With the other children who were members of prominent families in France.” (Source: Élisabeth Charpy D.C. in an article on vincentians.com)

At Poissy, Louise received a classical education which may have included Latin, philosophy, theology, liturgy, painting, music, spirituality of the mystics, and meditation.

“Thus Louise grew up amid the affluent society of Paris, but without a stable home life. Louise remained at Poissy until just before her father’s death, when she was twelve years old.” (Source: Wikipedia)

Read more about the Priory at Poissy on Wikipedia FR

All Vincentian Places in this Series

Red = Vincent de Paul, Blue = Frederic Ozanam, Teal = Elizabeth Seton, Yellow = Louise de Marillac

Use mouse wheel to zoom