Urban Exploration - Alphonse's House

We received photos from a traveler and compiled them into a historical summary.

This documentary covers the visit of a small farm located in a discreet corner of a remote—though touristy—rural area. In this secluded spot, there is no parade of motorhomes, only the immense serenity of the peaceful countryside.

This farm was run by Alphonse. Judging by the photos, while one can sense the varied nature of farming life, the farm was dedicated to cattle breeding, which seems to align with the primary agricultural activity of the sector.

In many photos from that era, one can glimpse the presence of Denise, his sister.

While Alphonse remained very private about his life—and indeed the house reveals very little of it—one can sense a large, loving family.

Photos of Alphonse are scattered throughout a period album. They suggest a man who was discreet and reserved, yet entirely passionate about his essential vocation as a farmer. No document will allow us to know more; ultimately, it is a small immensity of silence that now surrounds his memory.

Alphonse was born in January 1931 and passed away in February 2016 at the age of 85. During his final days, he was in a retirement home, far from his farm, under the benevolent care of the staff.

I did not find his grave in the village, even though the cemetery is small. Perhaps he is in a family vault in a nearby village, with his brothers and sisters; this is the most likely case, and it is my sincere wish to go there to honor his final resting place.

Left in a state of profound neglect, the house now suffers from stability issues. A large crack runs through the living room.

Avant - Après. 40 ans d'écart.

L'image de ce que fut son bonheur.