Old administrative document Marseilles 1940 bridge port report TPE subdivisionna

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This original administrative document, dated March 27, 1940, in Marseille, is an official report from the Ponts et Chaussées (Roads and Bridges Department), Bouches-du-Rhône Department, Maritime Service. It is a request for authorization concerning the temporary occupation of the public maritime domain, specifically regarding the "Môle F" in the port of Marseille. The document is titled "Report of the T.P.E. Subdivisional Engineer" and bears several handwritten notes, signatures, and administrative stamps visible in the header and margin.

The main sheet, yellowed with age, features a layout typical of the 1930s-40s, with a structured header, areas reserved for annotations and signatures, as well as typewritten and handwritten sections. Several engineers' and managers' names are indicated: Mr. Albouy (T.P.E. Engineer), Mr. Chabannes (Assistant Subdivisional Engineer), and Mr. Gouret (Port Director).

The central text details the request for authorization made by the company "Services Auxiliaires de l'Armement" for the temporary use of a part of the port, in connection with wine transit and the passage of tanker ships. It refers to a petition dated December 9, 1939, and references to previous laws and decrees governing the occupation of the public maritime domain.

The document features handwritten ink annotations, file numbers ("9599", "109", "96"), and a "Seen and approved" note in the margin. The visual aspect reflects period typography, with clear typewritten characters and wide margins. The paper shows a slight patina and some traces of use, typical of an old administrative document.

No illustrations or decorative stamps are present on the visible part; only administrative stamps and signatures authenticate the official nature of the report. The entire document is presented on a dark wooden support, which is not included in the sale (visible only in the background of the photo).

Condition

Used document, sold as is. Slight patina, very slightly blunted corners, visible signs of wear and handwritten inscriptions. The main text remains perfectly legible.

Did you know? The Ponts et Chaussées, created in the 18th century, played a central role in the development of French port infrastructures. In Marseille, the port and its facilities were often at the heart of expansion and modernization projects, particularly to support the growth of wine trade and industrial products in the early 20th century.

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Keywords: Marseille administrative document, port bridge report, old archives, Bouches-du-Rhône, TPE subdivisional, 1940s, typewritten paper, public domain occupation, engineer report, official French document, old French document, vintage paperwork