Association Louis Dunand

The Association Louis Dunand pour le Patrimoine d’Irigny is a local heritage organisation dedicated to researching, preserving and sharing the history and cultural legacy of Irigny. Founded in 1993, it works to safeguard the town’s historical, industrial, social and cultural traces while investigating local history, civic institutions and changing ways of life. The association takes its name from Louis Dunand, a local historian and collector of heritage images and objects whose archives it has recovered.

Its activities include documenting and promoting local heritage, organising public open days, educational workshops, events and conferences, and encouraging residents and elected representatives to take an active role in its preservation. It also publishes books on Irigny’s history and people. Its titles cover subjects such as the Rhône, local schools, wartime experiences, historic buildings, mills, postcards and notable residents, including the ongoing publication project about the Petit family. Through these publications and community programmes, the association makes local knowledge accessible and helps connect residents with the town’s past. It reported 104 members in 2024.