Centre de mémoire de la Verrerie d'en haut

In the charming town of Liévin, nestled in the Hauts-de-France region, lies a hidden gem that beautifully encapsulates the region's industrial heritage: the Centre de mémoire de la Verrerie d'en haut. This captivating museum invites visitors to embark on a journey through the history of glassmaking, from its humble beginnings in the 19th century to the advanced techniques of the modern era.

A Glimpse into the Past

The story of the Centre de mémoire de la Verrerie d'en haut begins with the discovery of coal in the region, which spurred the development of energy-intensive industries such as metallurgy and glassmaking. Founded on June 18, 1823, by Belgian industrialists Adrien Drion and Eugène-François de Dorlodot, the glassworks quickly became a cornerstone of the local economy. Initially producing demijohns and bottles, the factory expanded its operations under the leadership of Adolphe Patoux, who later became the mayor of Aniche and a Chevalier of the Legion of Honour.

During the 19th century, Aniche emerged as a hub for glassmaking, with 24 fusion furnaces operating in the factories of Drion-Quérité, who also owned glassworks in Belgium. The region witnessed numerous social conflicts between Belgian and French workers, particularly at the Aniche glassworks. Despite these challenges, the Verrerie d'en Haut achieved a significant milestone in 1885 by installing the first window glass tank furnace in France.

The Evolution of Glassmaking Techniques

The museum's exhibition offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of glassmaking techniques, showcasing four distinct methods used in the production of window glass. Visitors can explore the traditional method of glassblowing, which was used from 1823 to 1931, and the innovative Fourcault-Gobbe drawing process, which was introduced in 1931 and continued until 1962. The Pittsburg vertical drawing technique, used from 1962 to 1977, and the modern Float-Glass process, which involves floating molten glass on a bed of molten tin, are also featured in the exhibition.

Each technique represents a significant step towards automation and efficiency in glass production. While three of the methods involve vertical drawing, the Float-Glass process stands out for its horizontal production, resulting in high-quality, uniform glass sheets.

From Photographic Plates to Tempered Glass

The Centre de mémoire de la Verrerie d'en haut also delves into the various transformations that glass undergoes, from the creation of photographic plates to the application of silvering, tempering, and enameling. These processes highlight the versatility of glass as a material and its numerous applications in everyday life and industry.

Immersive Historical Reconstructions

One of the museum's highlights is its immersive reconstructions of the glassworkers' lives and the factory environment. Visitors can step back in time and experience the bustling atmosphere of the glassworks, complete with a recreated estaminet (a traditional café), an infirmary, and a garage service. These meticulously crafted scenes provide a vivid glimpse into the daily lives of the workers and the community that grew around the glassworks.

A Tribute to Lost Glassworks

The Centre de mémoire de la Verrerie d'en haut pays homage to the numerous glassworks in the Aniche region that have since disappeared. These include the Sainte-Catherine Glassworks, founded in 1847, the Saint-Martin Glassworks, established in 1852, the Hayez Glassworks, which began operations in 1873, the Gare Glassworks, founded in 1898, and the Caton Glassworks, established in 1860 in Auberchicourt. The museum serves as a poignant reminder of the region's rich industrial heritage and the people who contributed to its legacy.

A Living Memory

The Centre de mémoire de la Verrerie d'en haut is more than just a museum; it is a living memory of the region's glassmaking history. Through its extensive collection of artifacts, detailed exhibitions, and engaging reconstructions, the museum brings to life the stories of the glassworkers and the evolution of their craft. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people of Liévin and the surrounding area.

In conclusion, a visit to the Centre de mémoire de la Verrerie d'en haut offers a unique and enriching experience for anyone interested in industrial history, craftsmanship, and the enduring legacy of glassmaking. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of artisanal crafts, or simply curious about the past, this museum promises to captivate and inspire with its rich tapestry of stories and exhibits. So, take a step back in time and discover the fascinating world of glassmaking at the Centre de mémoire de la Verrerie d'en haut in Liévin.