In 1896 Marseille’s Rocca Tassy & de Roux employed 1800 workers. They launched Végétaline the first margarine made from vegetable butters. This is a story about Traverse de l’Huilerie Nouvelle. The Traverse de l’Huilerie Nouvelle in Marseille is directly linked to this history. L’Huilerie Nouvelle one of the companies that formed Unipol was a major player in Marseille’s oil and soap industry.
The area surrounding Traverse de l’Huilerie Nouvelle likely bustled with activity. The air was thick with the smells of olive oil sesame oil and copra. Imagine the sounds of machinery the shouts of workers and the rumble of carts. L’Huilerie Nouvelle was not just a factory. It was the heart of a booming industry.
This street witnessed the rise and fall of Marseille’s soap industry. Initially made with olive oil Savon de Marseille later incorporated other oils. The Edict of Colbert in 1688 officially recognized Savon de Marseille. This edict regulated soap-making ensuring high quality. L’Huilerie Nouvelle undoubtedly played a part in upholding these standards.
By 1786 there were 48 soap factories in Marseille producing 76000 tonnes of soap. The 19th and early 20th centuries were the golden age. Savon de Marseille was renowned for its purity and quality. The Traverse de l’Huilerie Nouvelle was in the middle of this bustling activity.
The arrival of new oils like palm copra peanut and sesame oil led to more variety in production. New factories sprang up around Marseille. However the rise of synthetic detergents in the 20th century led to the decline of traditional soap-making. Many factories closed down including some connected to the Traverse de l’Huilerie Nouvelle.
Today a few manufacturers still produce Savon de Marseille. This is a testament to its enduring popularity. Despite the decline of the industry Traverse de l’Huilerie Nouvelle remains a silent witness. It recalls the area’s rich industrial past. It reminds us of the dedicated workers and the innovation that once thrived here. So next time you walk this street remember the story of L’Huilerie Nouvelle and Savon de Marseille. Remember the legacy of this place.