Moulin Bézard

Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Bézard Mill is an agricultural windmill located in Capesterre-de-Marie-Galante, on the island of Marie-Galante in Guadeloupe. Built around 1840 (or possibly between 1800 and 1820), it was used to grind sugar cane for a sugar house. It is distinguished by its external mechanism with three horizontal rollers, inspired by the mills of the British Caribbean, and a melted machinery at the Nillus du Havre plant. This type of mill was innovative for the time on the island.

The mill ceased operations around 1920 and was severely damaged by Hurricane Betsy in 1956. It was restored in 1995 at an 18-month school yard, involving 52 trainees of six trades supervised by companions of the Tour de France. The materials used, such as the Balisiers quarry stones and wood for the frame, have enabled the entire reconstruction of wings and outside machinery.

The Bézard Mill has been a historical monument since July 25, 1979, and is one of the last preserved examples of the 100 or so mills historically present on Marie-Galante. It reflects the importance of the sugar industry in the economic history of Guadeloupe and the adaptation of grinding techniques to local conditions. Its restoration has preserved a unique technical and architectural heritage in the region.

External links