Varennes-en-Argonne is a small commune in the Meuse department of northeastern France, situated in the Argonne Forest. It holds a remarkable place in both French and American history.
In French history, Varennes is famous as the place where King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were captured during their attempted flight from Paris on June 21, 1791 — an event that helped seal the fate of the French monarchy during the Revolution.
In American military history, Varennes was one of the first objectives of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, which began on September 26, 1918. The town was captured by American forces on the first day of the offensive. The 28th Division (“Keystone Division,” Pennsylvania National Guard) and the 35th Division (Kansas and Missouri National Guard) fought through this area in fierce combat.
Margaret Sheldon arrived in Varennes in late September 1918, just as the offensive was getting underway. Her diary describes the devastation of the town — the shattered buildings, the shell-torn landscape, and the constant roar of artillery. The Salvation Army established a hut here to serve the troops passing through on their way to the front.
Today, Varennes-en-Argonne is home to the Pennsylvania Memorial, honoring the soldiers of the 28th Division who fought and died here. The town has been rebuilt but retains memorials and markers of its dramatic history.
Location
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Diary of a World War I Donut Girl 