Train de bois

We are still in Migennes………

But last weekend we took a day off to join the ‘Flotescale’ festivities at the beginning of the Canal de Bourgogne.

This was basically a re-enactment of the flottage du bois that was in existence from 1549-1923. It started as a means of taking large quantities of wood from the Morvan district of France up to Paris where it was needed for building works and for fuel. Using the rivers as a means of transportation was quicker and more cost effective than the roads.

Numerous lengths of wood were lashed together to form 72 metre ‘trains des bois’ which were taken down the river Yonne to Paris. The men then had to walk all the way back home after delivering their cargo. When the Canal du Nivernais was built the wood was transported by peniche so ending the ‘trains du bois’.

But we were able to watch a replica come along the Yonne, through the lock and onto the Canal de Bourgogne. It was an excuse for a little frivolity, including an enjoyable band with a sousaphone! After which we retired to the pub.

Author: mistyjf

I have been boating in Europe since 2009 when I shipped Misty Morning to France. Time & life move on! Adrian, my new partner, & I bought Piedaleau in 2015 to continue and expand our European boating adventures. View all posts by mistyjf