3-039-013 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Delivering the keys in the fortress of Mont Valérien, 1871. Franco-Prussian War: 'The surrender of Paris...The guards were then told off, sentries were posted on the ramparts and over the powder magazines, and the remainder of the men were ordered to fall out and clean up the barrack-rooms and quarters, and make themselves comfortable for the night... A French officer went round the fortress with the Prussian artillery commandant, showed him all the magazines of stores and barracks, and handed over to him the keys of all the doors. Only three Frenchmen remained to witness the entry of the Germans. As regards the defensive works, the fort was in perfect condition; everything was well constructed and admirably kept'. From "Illustrated London News", 1871.