Nestled in the charming town of Kelmis, Belgium, the Museum Vieille Montagne stands as a beacon of industrial heritage and local history. This captivating museum, housed in the historic and beautifully restored former director's building of the Vieille Montagne company, offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich past and its pivotal role in the zinc industry.
The roots of the Museum Vieille Montagne trace back to 1970 when the Göhltal Association was founded with the mission of preserving and exploring the history of Kelmis and its neighboring areas. Initially, the collection found its home in the Villa Bruch, a former mayor’s office, where it was known as the Göhltalmuseum. As the collection expanded, so did the vision for a more comprehensive exploration of the region's industrial legacy.
In 2014, the municipality of Kelmis made a significant decision to purchase and renovate the former director's building of the Vieille Montagne company. This decision led to the transformation of the space into the Museum Vieille Montagne, which opened its doors to the public on September 14, 2018. Under the leadership of historian Céline Ruess, the museum has become a state-recognized institution, offering visitors an immersive experience into the local history and industrial evolution.
The museum's permanent exhibition is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and narratives that tell the story of Kelmis and its development, deeply intertwined with the zinc deposits in the area. The exhibition highlights how the region's zinc resources attracted various political interests since the Middle Ages and how the professional mining of zinc began in 1806 under the chemist Jean-Jacques Dony.
Visitors can explore the rise of the Société Anonyme des Mines et Fonderies de Zinc de la Vieille-Montagne, founded by François-Dominique Mosselman in 1837, which spurred both industrial and social growth in the region. This era saw the population of Kelmis swell from a mere 300 inhabitants in 1800 to about 5000 between the world wars, a testament to the transformative power of industry.
One of the museum’s most intriguing sections is dedicated to the unique history of Neutral Moresnet, a small neutral territory that existed from 1815 to 1918 due to international disputes over the area's rich mineral resources. Through maps, images, and artifacts, the museum delves into the socio-political dynamics of this peculiar state, its customs and tax privileges, and the challenges it faced, including smuggling and its exemption from military service.
The museum also pays homage to notable figures associated with Neutral Moresnet, such as Wilhelm Molly, a company doctor and deputy mayor, who famously advocated for Esperanto to become the state language.
A dedicated section of the museum showcases the region's railway history, particularly the industrial railway that operated from 1871 to 1952. This railway was a critical link for the zinc industry, connecting Kelmis to various routes. Although the mining industry has since ceased, the legacy of these railways lives on as they have been converted into scenic cycling paths within the RAVeL network.
The Museum Vieille Montagne is not just a collection of static exhibits; it offers an engaging and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. With portable audio guides available in multiple languages and a small cinema room featuring short documentary films, the museum ensures an enriching visit. Additionally, spaces for temporary exhibitions allow for a dynamic exploration of themes such as the First World War and the post-war integration of Kelmis into Belgium.
In conclusion, the Museum Vieille Montagne is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in industrial history, local culture, and the fascinating story of Neutral Moresnet. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the zinc industry and its profound impact on the region, offering visitors a captivating journey through time. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, the museum promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Kelmis.
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