Local historian Brian Spangle recently wrote a column detailing the life of Benoit Fritsch, a well-known French immigrant who operated a saloon on Main Street from 1890 to 1911. Fritsch claimed to have assisted author Maurice Thompson in researching his famous novel “Alice of Old Vincennes,” but evidence suggests this claim is false. While Fritsch’s assertion was widely accepted and even included in biographies of Thompson, close examination shows inconsistencies. For instance, Fritsch claimed to have inspired the character of Alice Roussillon, but historical facts prove otherwise.
Fritsch’s own accounts of his alleged interactions with Thompson also don’t align with the timeline of events. Despite these discrepancies, the story persisted for decades in Vincennes newspapers and directories, shaping Fritsch’s legacy as a key figure in the creation of the novel. Spangle’s research sheds light on how stories can become distorted over time, especially when repeatedly shared without scrutiny.
The column highlights the importance of questioning historical narratives and not accepting claims at face value. Spangle’s book, “Lost Vincennes,” delves into similar stories that challenge established beliefs about the city’s past. For those interested in Vincennes’ history and the impact of local figures like Fritsch, Spangle’s work offers a deeper understanding of the complexities behind seemingly straightforward tales. Readers can find “Lost Vincennes” at the Knox County Public Library and on Amazon, offering a closer look at the hidden truths of the area’s past.
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