Lavoir

A Lavoir is a public place where people were able to wash their clothes. Very often, these basins were near a river. Such places were built from about the 18th century onwards. Today, many have been restored and are tourist attractions. A "Lavoir" is the French term for an ancient public washhouse or laundry facility, specifically designated for laundering clothes rather than bathing. These structures are prevalent in numerous villages and towns across France, showcasing a diverse range of designs and styles, from simple troughs to intricate buildings. Remarkably, many Lavoirs have endured the test of time and are increasingly being safeguarded for their historical significance.

History of Lavoir

The earliest lavoirs date back to the late 17th century, but it was not until the mid-19th century that they gained significant momentum. Recognizing the correlation between hygiene and public health, Napoleon III spearheaded an extensive public health initiative aimed at addressing issues stemming from industrial pollution and outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, smallpox, and typhoid. In 1851, a law was enacted offering municipalities a 30% subsidy for the construction of public washhouses. Consequently, lavoirs began to proliferate across France.

Men were prohibited from entering the washhouse, as it was considered exclusively women's domain—a space for conversation, venting frustrations, and sharing laughter among friends, thereby alleviating the laborious task of laundry. The social significance of the lavoir cannot be overstated. Throughout much of the 20th century, lavoirs remained essential hubs for women, offering both practical assistance and social interaction. However, the landscape of laundry changed dramatically with the advent of hot water in private residences and the revolutionary invention of the washing machine, marking a significant shift in domestic chores.

Modern days and Lavoirs

As the popularity of washhouses declined, many fell into disrepair, with preservation efforts taking a back seat. However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition of their historical significance, prompting an increasing number of municipalities to undertake restoration projects. Nowadays, lavoirs can be found repurposed as water-filled fountains or left in their natural state, resembling ponds. Some have been restored but remain empty, while others are utilized to showcase market wares. Despite the changes, many lavoirs still retain their role as gathering places, with men no longer excluded from their premises.

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  Lavoir in Chénières
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  Lavoir in Bonnat
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  Lavoir in Noyers, Yonne