A very rare letter from the inventor Jacques Vaucanson about the silk factories of Aubenas and Lavaur

Rare letter from Vaucanson on the silk factories of Aubenas and Lavaur.

He received the Vals waters that he had sent, but only 8 bottles instead of the expected 12. The bishop urgently requested another case of 8 bottles "so that the waters can be taken during the September stream." He would then send him the payment for both orders.

"Mr. de Joubert must be on his way to Aubenas or will be there soon. I think he will find your factory ready to be seen and examined. I would be grateful if you could tell me immediately what impression this visit made on him and what he told you about it. You will easily be able to judge whether he is satisfied or if he desires anything. I will have the opportunity to make him understand the necessity of you providing students, all trained for the planned factories. For I believe that the one Mr. Reboul sent you has not worked long enough to be able to run the one I am establishing here... I am keeping an eye on the two silk-drawers you sent; they are well looked after, they receive great care, and they are very happy with their lot. They are not as happy with the sorting of the cocoons they are given to spin; their silk is not nearly as clean as yours. However, they spin very well." Well. Especially one, but its skeins are always spoiled on some sides. They show me their sorrow. But Mr. Jean Roux believes that because one has been a silk merchant for 20 years in Lyon, no one can teach him anything on the subject. Mr. Reboul doesn't get involved in anything, they want to appear to do without him, and... division and misunderstanding have always reigned between them [...]".

Inventor, automaton maker, and member of the Academy of Sciences, Jacques Vaucanson was appointed inspector of silk factories in 1741. Henri Deidier obtained letters patent in 1752 to establish a royal manufactory near Aubenas. It remained in operation until 1774. Jacques Reboul received authorization by decree in 1757 to establish a royal manufactory in Lavaur, which operated until 1768.