Lost in the “jungle” of the southern part of the south zone of the base, these two Quonset huts (Picture #1), were found during the clearing of the area (Picture #2) to install solar panels.

These Quonset huts were built in 1953,and were classified/listed , back then, as “laverie individuelle” (bath rooms) and “lieu de recreation” (recreation area). Both were located in the area known as “tent city” (Pictures #3 and #4)

Click on images to enlarge

Photo credit : Jean-Jacques Bérenguier, Didier Dubant, Philippe Dubois, Frédéric Niemier et Dominique Roosens

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We were already considering transforming one of these structures to allow guided tours.

Originally found in good shape (Pictures #5, 6 and 7), they were unfortunately destroyed by a storm on June 26th, 2020 (pictures #8, 9 and 10).

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Despite the situation, our volunteers did not give up and, under the scorching sun, quickly showed up to recover and save the remaining vestiges of these constructions.

Thanks to the combined efforts of Dominique, Frédéric, Jonathan, Philippe and Xavier (Pictures # 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18), we now wish to rebuild part of the structures near building 002.

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With us that day, were Dider Dubant, historian of the “La Martinerie” base (picture #19) and a team from the local National Shooting Sports Center (CNTS) (picture #20).

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Our two experts, Frédéric and Jérémy, (Pictures #21) availed themselves of the opportunity to do some “archeological” digs and were able to recover several items from that era (Pictures #22,23, 24 and 25).

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Picture 23 : salt shaker and steam whistle

Picture 24 : various objects

Picture 25 : bicycle plate

We now have to put the puzzle back together (picture #26)

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