Ancienne filature des Calquières

English translation

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History

The existence of the mill is attested from the 15th century. The factory is a wool mill which, at an almost artisanal level, operated from 1853 to 1990. It is the last artisanal mill in the south of the Massif central. Its major interest lies in the ensemble of ancient spinning machines, present and in good working order. Most date from before the early 20th century, which is exceptional. The building comprises a basement, a raised ground floor, two square storeys and low roof spaces. These are working floors corresponding to the process of manufacturing the woollen product. The distribution of activities is done by storey, with machines corresponding to a function. On the basement storey is found the motive power and the stages of washing and beating of the wool are carried out. Carding takes place on the ground floor. Spinning is done on the first floor. A Mule Jenny spinning machine dating from 1850-1860, of French manufacture, is the only remaining example in France. The final stage is carried out on the second floor. Double twisting is done there with more artisanal equipment, dating from 1870-1880.