Habitation Clement is THE place to visit absolutely from Martinique. Throughout its history, what it represents for Martinique past and present, this symbolic place will immerse you into the heart of the history of Martinique. Habitation Clement is a former sugar plantation. In 1996, it was classified as a historical monument. Property on an area of approximately 300 hectares is called Domaine de l'Acajou.
Originally called "Habitation Acajou" by its first owners Louis Hodebourg Desbrosses and Simon de Bassigny, Habitation housing was bought in 1887 then by the Mayor of François, Homere Clement. Homere Clement was a descendant of a freed slave. First, he cultivates sugar cane which he sells to the factory of François, then in 1917, following an order, he is allowed to build a small distillery.
At his death in 1923, his son Charles, a graduate engineer from the École Centrale des Arts et Manufactures in Paris and the Pasteur Institute, took over the business and works to improve the quality (fermentation and distillation) of rums. He created the Acajou brand in the '30s and Clement brand in the 40s.
The successful business into the 80s before experiencing economic difficulties. It was bought by Bernard Hayot Group in 1986. This is where it definitely takes the name of "Habitation Clement" in honor of the family who made prospered it.
In 1991, following the Gulf War, it is a meeting place of prestige between the President of the French Republic at the time, François Mitterrand and President of the United States, George Bush.
Today it is divided into three parts:
- The old rum distillery Clement, who is now a museum,
- Aging cellars rum Clement which are still used and
- Residential buildings, some of which are open to visitors.
You can also see many tropical plants and trees over an area of 17 hectares. The tour is free but paid and is done through audioguides freely distributed at the beginning of the visit.
