The construction of quays and the need for more frequent washing of cotton linen led to,
in all western towns and cities.
Laval offers curious visitors the chance to climb aboard Europe’s last habitable washboat
to immerse themselves in the daily life of the washerwomen of yesteryear.
Le Bateau-Lavoir Saint-Julien
A heritage unique in EuropeA journey through time
on the banks of the MayenneThe washing machine of yesteryear
From 1904 to 1970First appearing in Laval under the Second Empire, these washboats, initially relegated to the outskirts of the city, grew to number around twenty on both sides of the river.
The labor of the washerwomen, nicknamed “Poules d’eau” (moorhen) in Mayenne, was not easy.
First, they rinse the linen cold in the river water, then subject it to a hot wash in the vats on the upper deck. They then wring it out, rinse it cold and dry it.
In so doing, they manually replace the classic cycle of a modern washing machine.
A place to live, a place to socialize, the Saint-Julien is the last remaining witness to Laval’s washerwoman industry.
Its closure at the dawn of the 70s marked the end of an era for generations of Laval residents.
Saved from sinking in 2009, restored as a living museum and put back in the water in 2013, it is a precious testimony for younger generations.
Practical information
Currently under construction
A games booklet to entertain young and old is available on board.
Outside these times, the boat wash is available for group visits by prior arrangement.
For further information, contact us on 02 43 49 46 46
31 people maximum per visit
80€ / hour + 3€ per person present
The boat’s deck is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Compensatory tools have been put in place to enable a virtual visit of the slipway
Nearby bus stop and parking space reserved for PRMs
Tactile model of the wash boat with Braille legends
Digital kiosk with captioned computer-generated images
Digital tablet with 360° guided tour
Self-service magnifying glasses
FALC (easy to read and understand) tour aids
Magnetic loop for hearing-impaired visitors
