De Sjouwer

On the edge of Belgium, De Sjouwer stands tall. A silent sentinel against the sky, this concrete giant whispers tales of hard work and cross-border journeys. De Sjouwer isn’t just a monument. It’s a tribute to the Flemish frontier workers, the “sjouwers,” who toiled tirelessly in France between 1930 and 1960. These workers crossed the border daily, seeking opportunities in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region. They performed back-breaking seasonal labor, contributing significantly to the French economy. De Sjouwer, inaugurated in 1974, stands as a powerful symbol of their dedication. Designed by Jacques Moeschal, the architect behind the iconic “Arrow” at the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, De Sjouwer is a striking concrete tower reaching 35 meters high. It’s located on a hill along the E17 Lille-Ghent highway, a path many of these workers would have traveled. Look closely, and you’ll notice the highest point of De Sjouwer points towards France. A poignant reminder of the destination of these determined workers. The hill itself has a story. It was formed from the earth excavated during the construction of the E17 highway between 1966 and 1977. So De Sjouwer is not only a monument to the workers, but it’s also a product of the evolving landscape, a testament to the changing times. De Sjouwer’s story is one of perseverance, opportunity, and the enduring human spirit. It serves as a powerful reminder of the contributions made by these often-unsung heroes of the past.