This weekend we went back to the Sugar Factory. Ever since our visit last summer I wanted to go back and go inside. Apparently visiting la Sucrerie de Francières isn't easy: it's closed most of the time… but not this weekend!
The sugar industry played a prominent role in the economy of my region and that's why it's so cool that local volunteers decided to save and restore this factory. The school, the chapel and main factory hall are in great shape again… but the untouched buildings were even more intriguing:
I really wanted to climb these stairs and have a look on the first floor:
For obvious reasons they wouldn't let me…
The 34 meter high chimney is a beautiful landmark in the middle of nowhere. In the 19th century the nearest village was situated at 4km and the workers' families formed a self sustaining community. One third of the sugar production was used for themselves, kids went to a private school and the families lived in houses accross the street. The factory shut down in 1969, but one of the children that grew up here told us that life was "tough, but happy and good".
Check back soon as I'll show you the more colorful inside of la Sucrerie…
Mooi! Ik heb ook een fascinatie voor lege, verlaten gebouwen. Zo kan ik uren doorbrengen op websites als abandoned-places.com..je kan je hart ophalen!
Oeh ja, leuke site! Je kunt dan zo lekker fantaseren over hoe het er vroeger ooit uit heeft moeten zien. Heerlijk he?!
It looks a bit scary, but if it would be in a better shape I could imagine opening new stores and small restaurants inside. That would be so cool.
That would be awesome! Unfortunately the factory is located in a very remote place, so I don't think many people would come here to shop & dine…
Wat prachtig Judith!! Kan me voorstellen dat je die trap op wilde ja. Ben benieuwd naar je volgende post :)
Ja van zo'n trap word je nieuwsgierig he… wordt vervolgd :o)
Bedankt voor je comment! Vind het moeilijk hoor, al jaren hetzelfde werk en toe aan iets anders…wat dat dan precies is, weet ik (nog) niet.
Beautiful photos – it looks so misterious… And that chimney! I'm definitely looking forward to the photos of the inside!
Thanks Lena! to be continued :o)
Love it! Spooky and wonderful!
:o)