Description:
A Medal in Category 1 - Conservation has been given to the restoration of the Grande Forge in Buffon, France. This ensemble of buildings, a metallurgical factory with accommodation and facilities for its masters and workers, including a foundry, a refinery and a mill, as well as a chapel and an orangery, is a unique example of an 18th century industrial complex. In 1923, industrial production stopped and the complex became a private residence. In 1978, new owners opened the site for public viewing and started the restoration of the various industrial and residential parts of the complex, including reinstalling parts of the then missing machinery. The project is valued for the great effort and dedication put into the restoration of this important example of an early industrial site.