Case-Pilote

History

Case-Pilote is a commune in the Caribbean North of Martinique, bordered by Bellefontaine to the north, Le Morne-Vert, and Schœlcher.

Its name comes from a Carib chief who once lived in the area. The French called him "Pilote." Known for his kindness toward the first French Jesuits seeking to settle in the region, he earned the goodwill of the colonists.

Case-Pilote is one of the oldest communes on the island, after Saint-Pierre and Le Prêcheur. When the French arrived, the area was granted to Lestiboudois de la Vallée, a lieutenant of Pierre Belain d’Esnambuc. Jean Dupont, the island’s first governor, entrusted him with the temporary administration of the colony.

Between 1640 and 1645, the parish was established. A modest chapel was built, followed by a church that has been rebuilt several times and still impresses visitors today.

On January 16, 1762, the English landed in Case-Pilote and set it ablaze. Colonists took refuge in the fort.

In 1778, Case-Pilote’s gun battery was equipped with three cannons. This area later became known as the La Batterie neighborhood.

In 1792, the parish priest, Abbé Cairety, announced that soldiers from Fort-Royal were heading toward Case-Pilote. The English were then driven out of the commune.

In 1837, Case-Pilote officially became a commune by decree. At the time, it included Case-Navire (now Schœlcher), Bellefontaine, and part of Morne-Vert.

On January 11, 1839, around 6:00 a.m., a powerful earthquake partially destroyed the church and parts of the town center.

In 1890, Jules Sévère, brother of Victor, became mayor of the commune.

In 1922, the Maniba distillery was converted into a sugar factory to comply with a quota law limiting rum exports.

In 1925, when Saint-Just Orville became mayor, he oversaw repairs to the church.

In 1980, the Maniba sugar factory permanently closed.

In 1990, the church’s bell tower was restored.

Today, Case-Pilote retains its early charm, with a central square featuring a statue, surrounded by the church, town hall, and market.

Economy

Fishing is the primary economic activity in Case-Pilote. Seafood is so central that a fish processing company is also based in the commune.

The town turned to fishing after its factories closed and many plantations were abandoned in the early 20th century.

Agriculture and livestock farming continue to exist, primarily focusing on vegetables and staple crops.

Neighborhoods

The main districts of Case-Pilote are Batterie, Case Brûlée, Fond Boucher, Grande Trace, La Démarche, Les Abymes, Maniba, Morne Breton, Morne Obély, Plaisance, and Tamarin.