Purchase by Victor Sévère 1899 (≈ 1899)
Start of modifications for observatory.
1899-1921
Conversion into an observatory
Conversion into an observatory 1899-1921 (≈ 1910)
Adaptation of the tower for astronomy.
1921
Residence of the Governor
Residence of the Governor 1921 (≈ 1921)
New institutional function of the building.
4e quart XIXe siècle
Construction of mill
Construction of mill 4e quart XIXe siècle (≈ 1987)
Edification in a neo-classical style.
31 décembre 1992
Historical Monument
Historical Monument 31 décembre 1992 (≈ 1992)
Protection of the mill and observatory.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Moulin et son observatoire (Case BT 473) : inscription by order of 31 December 1992
Key figures
Victor Sévère - Owner and astronomer
Turn the tower into an observatory (1899-1921).
Origin and history
The Old Mill of Didier, located in Fort-de-France, is an iconic monument of the late 19th century, built in a neo-classical style. Its architecture is distinguished by a harmonious cubic ensemble, marked by carved wood orthogonal assemblages, worked coatings and fine carpentry. The south facade has a tower, an old windmill, which gives the building its visual identity.
In 1899 Victor Sévère, passionate about astronomy, acquired the mill and modified the upper part of the tower between 1899 and 1921 to make it an observatory. This place thus becomes a space dedicated to studying the sky. From 1921, the house was transformed into an official residence for the governor, adding an institutional dimension to his history.
Ranked a Historical Monument, the Old Mill is now protected for its mill and observatory, registered by decree of 31 December 1992. Although privately owned, its architectural and scientific heritage makes it a remarkable site of Martinique, mixing industrial heritage, astronomy and colonial history.
