What is a strapper?
This ancient profession consists of splitting branches of chestnut or willow trees to make slats used to make barrels.
The Dordogne had many feuillardiers in the 19th century.
They found their raw materials in the forests from Périgord Noir.
In Périgord, wooden barrels were mainly used for winemaking and transporting wine on barges.
Are there still active strap workers in Dordogne?
The strapping activity took place mainly in winter, until the sap rose. Not very rewarding and difficult to perform, the appeal of the profession declined from the years 1910-1920.
An association of Périgord feuillardiers was created in 2019 with its head office in Les Eyzies.
Where can I see the work of the strap maker?
The Vézère Valley is classified “Grand Site of France” since 2020. In this context, animations are regularly organized where ancient trades are put in the spotlight. THE demonstrations of strapping always have great success.
You can also discover this profession on the Madeleine website during the summer.
