The Special Relationship: A Historic and Enduring Friendship between Flers and Charleston

Flers and Charleston, located in South Carolina, have been officially twinned since 2022 but their links have existed since 1947, following the Second World War. Yvette Lerichomme, municipal councilor responsible for twinning and international cooperation, looks back on the history of this special relationship during a richly documented conference which will take place on Saturday October 14, at 5:30 p.m., at the Flers media library.
In 1947, Flers, which was 70% destroyed in bombings, was in ruins. The population of Charleston is mobilizing to help residents. The city becomes the first in Europe to be sponsored by an American city. This is how in 1948, more than 120 tonnes of goods crossed the Atlantic towards Le Havre to be transported to Flers. The cargo includes various foodstuffs, equipment, clothes, medicines and even toys.
The friendship between Flers and Charleston quickly became a model that was adopted by more than 300 cities in the United States. As a sign of recognition, the municipal council at the time renamed Place de la Halle which became, in 1949, Place Charleston.

Conference on friendship between Flers and Charleston, Saturday at 5:30 p.m., at the Flers media library – rue du Collège. Upon registration. Contacts: 02 33 98 42 22 or [email protected]