Papeteries de Lancey, Historical paper mill in Villard-Bonnot, France.
Papeteries de Lancey is a paper factory complex in the French Alps that used water power for production. The site includes several industrial buildings, infrastructure for channeling water, and the former residence of an engineer.
The factory opened in 1869 and pioneered the use of water power for generating electricity in industrial production. It remained a key site of industrialization in the region before eventually ceasing operations.
The site represents the industrial heritage of Alpine communities that relied on water power and paper production. Visitors can see how engineers and factory workers shaped the region's economy and daily life through manufacturing.
The factory site is located on Avenue des Papeteries and is easy to find in the village. Visitors should allow time to explore multiple buildings and understand the water engineering systems that powered the operation.
The factory took advantage of a natural drop of roughly 500 meters to harness water with tremendous force for power generation. This innovative approach became a model for industrial hydroelectric systems and influenced similar projects elsewhere.
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