Puits Saint-Joseph, Heritage water well in Ronchamp, France
Puits Saint-Joseph is a mining shaft in Ronchamp with a rectangular footprint of approximately 2 meters by 3 meters and extends about 450 meters underground. It was equipped with machinery for water extraction and coal removal, and remains part of the preserved industrial complex.
Work at the shaft started in 1850 and ran until 1895, marking several decades of coal extraction in the region. The site demonstrates the mining technology that developed over this period in the local industry.
The well served as a vital water source for the mining community and shows how water supply was managed during industrial times. The way it was constructed reflects the practical needs of people working and living in a mining settlement.
The location sits between National Route 19 and Departmental Road 4, making it relatively accessible. Remnants of the old sawmill at the site help you get your bearings when exploring the area.
One remarkable moment in this shaft's history came in 1861, when production reached an exceptional peak. This top output was not sustained for long, but it shows the capacity that existed at this location.
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