Two fountains in the centre of the village

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Origin and history

The two fountains in central Lamentin, Martinique, date from the second half of the 19th century and the first quarter of the 20th century. They embody a utilitarian and decorative heritage, typical of the Martinic villages of the time. These fountains served as a central point for the supply of water to the inhabitants, while playing a major social role as a place of gathering and exchange in daily life. Their presence reflects the importance of water in the organisation of villages, where they became essential social spaces.

The Lamentin fountains were made by renowned foundries, including the Chappée and J.J. Ducel foundries. The Chappée et fils fountain was executed between 1895 and 1922, using a second fusion iron casting technique. The one signed by J.J. Ducel belongs to a model created under the Second Empire and widely distributed until the First World War, made by the sand cast method, from a plaster model. These industrial techniques, characteristic of the time, underline the know-how of the French foundries and their influence in the overseas territories.

Classified as Historical Monuments by order of 16 March 1995, these fountains bear evocative names: Fontaine aux Enfants (place Émile-Berlan) and Fontaine à la Nymphe (place André-Debuc). Their protection reflects their heritage value, both artistically and in terms of their role in the collective memory of Martinique. Their location on public squares, in the heart of the village, reinforces their status as identity landmarks for the inhabitants of Lamentin.

The accuracy of their geographical location is estimated as passable (note 5/10), with addresses listed in the Merimée database: Place Émile-Berlan and Place André-Debuc. Although their cadastration is not specified, these fountains are in the public domain and remain accessible, perpetuating their original function as a place of life and shared heritage.

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