Launched by an enthusiast twenty years ago, the Museum of Peasant Life and Forgotten Trades in Han-sur-Lesse might disappear in the coming weeks. The place offered a combined ticket with the Domaine des Grottes de Han but the animal park has decided to end this partnership agreement. The Museum does not consider itself viable on its own and its owner, soon to be 80 years old, cannot find a buyer.
Installed since 2000 in Han-sur-Lesse, the House of Peasant Life and Forgotten Trades is living its last hours. Pierre, a resident of Ave-et-Auffe, a neighboring village, regrets such a situation. “It’s a magnificent museum that will disappear, just like the decades of research”, he regrets. The place offers a real return to the past by offering a reconstruction of peasant civilization and trades of the past century.
Since settling in the region 7 years ago, Pierre has multiplied his visits to this building steeped in history. When friends visit him, he acts as a guide. “It’s a place to see even if you’re not passionate regarding it. It’s a part of local history and even more that is set to disappear”, he laments.
Joseph Baijot, 79, is the owner of this museum. 25 years ago, he bought the building on behalf of his three children. Quickly, he transformed it into a museum with one goal: to introduce visitors to trades of yesteryear. “During my childhood, I had a big family. We did not know abundance. So, I wanted to keep the beautiful things”, he testifies. This collection, Joseph begins it in the army. Then for years, he roams the flea markets from Brussels to Paris, looking for the smallest object likely to complete his panoply. “I did not receive any donations. I bought everything personally”, he explains.
For nearly ten years, Joseph enjoyed a partnership with the Domaine des Grottes de Han. But the Estate finally decided to put an end to it. “I have always been very happy with our partnership. Without them, it will be complicated”, he regrets. Until now, between 50,000 and 60,000 people visited the museum each year. Among them, most came following visiting the Domaine des Grottes. The latter then paid Joseph the sum of €1.20 per customer, he explains to us. From now on, Joseph will no longer be able to count on this remuneration which allows him to operate his gallery. After thinking for a long time, he decided to hang up. “At almost 80 years old, it is with a heavy heart and filled with emotion that I have decided to sell”, he breathes. Before adding: “It’s difficult”.
Resigned, Joseph explains to us that his building is for sale, as is his collection. “To enjoy one last time the magic that this museum offers, I will offer free entry for everyone during a weekend”, he explains. Dimitri, the curator employed for 17 years, must also say ‘goodbye’ to this place steeped in history.
