Elector of Lamartine - Bergues

At the time that Lamartine was elected as a representative of Sint Winoksbergen, only wealthy citizens were allowed to vote ; you had to pay a certain amount of taxes before you were allowed to vote.

In 1913, the city organized great celebrations to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the election of Lamartine as representative of this city. A new giant was built for the celebration. He was given the name “Elector of Lamartine” and he was dressed as a wealthy citizen of that period. He proudly wore his black coat, a white shirt with a hard collar, a top hat and always held a large black umbrella with the name 'Berguenard'.

When the sun returns, the giant returns to his place in front of the town hall of Sint Winoksbergen. From there he watches over the town and willingly lets himself be photographed by the visitors.

willem vandenameele