Conviviality


After the fishing, its product sold, comes the time of the "partichage": the money is distributed to each member of the crew, once the skipper's expenses have been paid and the "damage" has been noted. Everyone is entitled to their share. The "partichage", which had become a real ceremony, took place at the end of the week on Saturdays, and more rarely on Sundays, at the "master's" home. Accompanied by their wives, the dressed sailors gather around the table where the catch is displayed.


Eugène Trigoulet, Le Partichage, coll. Musée Opale Sud, Berck

Eugène Trigoulet, Le Partichage, coll. Musée Opale Sud, Berck

Once the distribution is done, the "bistouille", a coffee with strong alcohol, is distributed. This convivial moment strengthens the ties between the fishermen and their families.


Pierre Gatier, La bistouille, coll. Musée Opale Sud, Berck

Pierre Gatier, La bistouille, coll. Musée Opale Sud, Berck

Another time of conviviality, to meet in the pubs to rest, play and discuss. There are not many of them in Berck, but they are nevertheless important in the life of the fisherman. Exceptional opening authorisations (all night, Sundays) during the fishing season allow the sailors, once they have landed, to meet at any time of the day.


Francis Tattegrain, The Drinkers, coll. Musée Opale Sud, Berck

Francis Tattegrain, The Drinkers, coll. Musée Opale Sud, Berck



Not far away, the Rue des Pâtres and the Rue des Coucous mark the geographical limit of the village, where the dunes and the mollière begin.