Massacre of Vassy

Timeline

1. 1562Vassy · ChampagneThe Duke of Guise, François, entered Vassy with his armed retinue while returning from Lorraine to Paris; the town belonged to the dowry lands of his niece Mary, Queen of Scots. The local bishop had previously clashed with the Protestant congregation. The duke found some 500-600 Huguenots singing and worshipping in a barn, judging this a violation of the January Edict and a challenge to his lordly authority.
2. 1562Barn worship site at Vassy · ChampagneGuise's men tried to enter the barn but were refused; both sides threw stones and fired guns, after which soldiers rushed in and massacred the congregation. About 50 people (including 5 women and 1 child) died on the spot, and about 150 were wounded; some fugitives were shot by arquebusiers at roof openings and street corners. The pastor Morel was wounded and captured, and many private houses were looted.