Forgotten Foundations: The Story of Gers’ Lost Cement Plant – A Breaking History Revelation
Barran, France – A fascinating piece of local history resurfaced recently in Barran, France, as Jacques Couzinet of the Société Archéologique du Gers presented a detailed account of a little-known industrial endeavor: the attempt to build the only cement plant in the Gers department. The presentation, attended by over 70 history enthusiasts, unveiled a tale of post-war ambition, financial ruin, and a surprising connection to one of France’s most infamous con artists. This isn’t just a local story; it’s a microcosm of the economic anxieties and shadowy dealings of the interwar period, and a reminder that even the most promising ventures can crumble.
The Dream Takes Shape: Post-War Demand and Initial Investment
The seeds of the Société Anonyme des Ciments de Pontic were sown in the aftermath of World War I. Demand for cement soared as Europe rebuilt, and Alban Druilhet, a justice of the peace in Biarritz, saw an opportunity. Inheriting family lands rich in quarries and clay, he partnered with engineer Raymond Gautier in 1928 to establish the cement plant in Pontic, a locality within the commune of Barran, with administrative headquarters in L’Isle-de-Noé. The Bardin company of Montauban was contracted to construct the factory, and for two years, progress seemed promising. Machinery was installed, buildings rose – a tangible symbol of economic hope. But the foundation of this dream was built on increasingly shaky ground.
Financial Troubles and a Descent into Bankruptcy
The initial capital proved insufficient. Attempts to bolster finances through the sale of new shares fell short, and by the end of 1931, the project ground to a halt. Bankruptcy loomed, and the directors faced legal repercussions. This wasn’t an isolated incident; the early 1930s were a period of economic instability, and many ambitious projects faltered. However, the story of Pontic’s cement plant took a particularly scandalous turn with the emergence of the “Bons de Bayonne” affair and the involvement of Albert Stavisky.
Stavisky’s Shadow: Fraud and a Basque Nationalist’s Acquisition
The investigation into the Bons de Bayonne scandal revealed a shocking connection: Stavisky, a notorious fraudster, had provided financial assistance to a friend, Garrat, who was struggling with the bankruptcy of the Ciments de Pontic company. This link cast a dark shadow over the entire project, highlighting the pervasive corruption of the era. The factory’s assets were put up for auction in May 1944, and a surprising buyer emerged: Lézo de Urreiztieta, a Basque nationalist, shipowner, and smuggler. Urreiztieta’s acquisition marked the definitive end of the cement plant project, a final twist in a story already brimming with intrigue.
Why This Matters Today: Lessons from a Forgotten Past
The story of the Ciments de Pontic isn’t just a historical curiosity. It’s a cautionary tale about the risks of overextension, the importance of sound financial planning, and the vulnerability of even well-intentioned ventures to external forces – and even outright fraud. The involvement of figures like Stavisky underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in business. Furthermore, the acquisition by Lézo de Urreiztieta adds a layer of complexity, reflecting the political and economic currents of the time, and the often-blurred lines between legitimate enterprise and illicit activity. The presentation in Barran serves as a powerful reminder that local histories often contain echoes of larger national and international events.
This forgotten chapter of Gers’ industrial history, brought to light by the Arts, Music, History and Heritage association of Barran and Jacques Couzinet’s meticulous research, offers a compelling glimpse into a pivotal period. For those interested in delving deeper into French history, industrial archaeology, or the fascinating stories hidden within local communities, archyde.com will continue to bring you breaking news and in-depth analysis. Explore our archives for more untold stories and stay connected for future updates on this developing narrative.
