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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Noès Mill is the last vestige of an experimental farm created in the 18th century, on horseback in the communes of Mérignac and Pessac, Gironde. This site was developed as part of the decision of the Council of the Roy of 16 April 1761 to clear free land to combat grain shortages. The farm, built by Jacques-Alexandre Laffon de Ladebat, a Bordeaux shipowner, combined cereal cultivation and silkworm breeding, thanks to plantations of mulberry trees, while forming room valets.

The experimental farm was located in a marshy area of the "landes de Bordeaux", dried up to allow these agricultural activities. The mill, the only remaining element after the farm was destroyed in 1970, is built on a river marking the boundary between Mérignac and Pessac. It is distinguished by its remarkable architecture, including a cul-de-four vaulted niche, a pediment decorated with flowing water, and patterns of aquatic plants.

Since December 28, 1984, the mill was restored in 1993. Today it symbolizes the legacy of 18th century agricultural innovations, linked to figures such as Jacques-Alexandre Laffon de Ladebat, whose influence extended beyond maritime commerce, including agriculture and vocational training.

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