Siege of Orléans (1428–1429)

29 April 1429, opposite Chécy

A supply convoy accompanying Joan reached the Loire opposite Chécy, east of Orléans, on 29 April 1429. Marshal Sainte-Sévère and Admiral Louis de Culant commanded the escort, estimated at about 400–500 soldiers.

Charles VII had authorised Joan to travel with the convoy, which had been assembled at Blois. Its commanders had come up the safer southern side of the river, which meant the provisions now had to be transferred into boats.

Waiting on the wind

The wind at first kept the boats from reaching the loading point. Jean de Dunois — then known as the Bastard of Orléans, and commanding the city's defence — met Joan near the river, and his later testimony associated the wind's favourable change with that meeting.

The provisions and part of the escort then crossed into Orléans by water.

Through the Burgundy Gate at about eight

Joan entered the city through the Burgundy Gate at around 8 p.m., while the rest of the convoy turned back toward Blois. She lodged in the house of Jacques Boucher, treasurer to the Duke of Orléans.

Her arrival was not the lifting of the siege, and most of the army that had escorted her was still outside the walls.

Within days Dunois brought additional troops from Blois, French attacks on the English bastilles began on 4 May, and the English withdrew on 8 May.