Street names are part of the city fabric and tend to be under-appreciated. They serve simply as a label for a location rather than a key to a chapter in history. As crowds amble down Boulevard Anspach, most likely they are heading for the high street stores or food chains that line the capital's main pedestrian artery rather than contemplating the life of a 19th century mayor.
It might be nice to imagine that one day a street might be named in our honour, though the tribute tends to be posthumous so probably isn't worth longing after too much. Besides, altering addresses is a tricky process that, for obvious practical reasons, is rarely done.
For this reason, the renaming of a street is a noteworthy occasion – not least when as a homage to extraordinary lives. The latest of several such initiatives in Brussels to remember great women will see a renovated cycle link in the north of the city bear the name of Hélène Dutrieu, an exceptional lady who challenged gender stereotypes with astounding sporting achievements feats of daring.
Dutrieu lived in a male-dominated era but first found fame on the bike when she became the first female world champion in 1896. Yet despite her talent, Dutrieu was unable to rely on competitive cycling as a source of income and earned three times less than men. But rather than finding a more "normal" occupation, Dutrieu moved to Paris where she became a stuntwoman and later, the second woman to obtain a pilot's licence.
Her life and spectacular fearlessness can be explored on a dedicated website. And perhaps her story will inspire new generations as they cycle down her honorary street. But go easy on the stunts.
Do you ever wish a street could be named in your honour? Let @Orlando_tbt know.
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