Over the Deûle river arches the Pont de Fives. It’s more than just a bridge. It’s a testament to the industrial prowess of a company called Fives-Lille. This company wasn’t just local. Its influence spanned continents. They even built a massive iron girder bridge across the Nile near Cairo in 1872. Now, picture this: the year is 1861. A new engineering company is born: Parent, Schaken, Caillet et Cie. These founders, Basile Parent and Pierre Schaken, hailed from Belgium. Their vision? To build and innovate. This company would become the cornerstone of Fives-Lille. They partnered with another prominent firm, Société J. F. Cail & Cie. This collaboration fueled their growth and led to the establishment of several factories. One key plant was right here in Fives. It specialized in railway equipment, including rails and steam locomotives. They even had another plant in Givors focused on wheelsets. By 1865, they’d become the Compagnie de Fives-Lille. A few years later, they formally incorporated as the Compagnie de Fives-Lille pour constructions mécaniques et entreprises. Interestingly, the Cail company maintained its independence until merging with Fives-Lille in 1958. Over the years, the name evolved. It became Fives-Lille-Cail, then Fives-Cail-Babcock, and finally, simply Fives in 2007. So, as you stand on the Pont de Fives, remember, you’re connected to a legacy of innovation. A company that started here in Lille and left its mark across the world.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to