"Se gou bouyon ki mete lang deyò';'" It is the taste of the broth that makes the tongue stick out.
Meaning : "Good food leads to good conversations."
-Haitian Proverb
Saint-Marc (Kreyol: Sen Mak; English: Saint Mark) is the seventh-most populous city in Haiti and the second-most populous city in the Artibonite Department, with 266,642 residents in 2015.
Settled as a French farming community in 1695, it was founded in 1716 and later grew to become a center of trade, shipbuilding, and agriculture. The town incorporated to subsidize the Compagnie Nationale, the National Railroad, and rapidly industrialized following the rail line's connection to Port-au-Prince and Verrettes. It is one of the oldest municipalites in the country, having celebrated its 300th anniversary on April 25, 2016.
The city of Saint-Marc serves as the seat of Saint-Marc Arrondissement, which had a population of 443,007 based on the 2015 census estimates, making it the 5th largest borough in Haiti.
Straddling the regional divide between Northern and Central Haiti, Saint-Marc anchors the dynamic coastal area of a great fertile flatland known as the Artibonite Plain. The city is located just a few miles north of what is considered the most attractive part of the country, the Arcadian Coast, dotted with hotels, seaside resorts, and historical monuments. Downtown Saint-Marc and Downtown Gonaives are approximately 56 km (35 miles) apart, both falling along the Route Nationale 1 corridor.
Saint-Marc was given its name in the 16th-century (1500s) as a tribute to the construction of the Saint-Marc Chapel, which is celebrated on April 25th. The city is located on the site of an old Indian village which, in the fifteenth century (1400s), marked the northern boundary of the ancient Taino kindgom of Xaragua. This city has witnessed numerous significant events throughout history. In March 1790, Saint-Marc became the host to the Assembly of Saint-Marc, a colonial assembly consisting of 212 members and presided over by the Baron de la Chevalerie. During the War of Independence, Saint-Marc played a rebellious role against the French colonists. In February 1802, French troops, commanded by General Boudet, landed in Saint-Marc, and later, when the Leclerc expedition arrived, General Dessalines ordered the town to be set on fire.
The commune of Saint-Marc is one of the most historically-rich regions of the Artibonite Department. It contains many natural wonders, including the Gode River Falls and Grotte de la Voûte, as well as military architecture and civil society represented by fortifications like Belair and Diamant. Other notable attractions include the picturesque Grosse Roche and Amani-y Beaches, and the captivating waterfalls along the Tapion River in Deschapelle. For commercial entertainment, there are nightclubs and beach resorts available. Additionally, the city is home to several public parks, such as Place Cite Nissage Saget and Place Philippe Guerrier, which are often are often surrounded by vendors selling their wares.
Saint-Marc is generally considered a safe place to reside, with approximately 60% of the population living in communal sections - within the city limits but outside the city center.
Overview[]
Nickmame:
"Cité de Nissage Saget"
The large port town of Saint-Marc is surrounded by mountains. The port is always bustling with numerous sailboats. Situated on flat land near the sea, the town's borders stretch into the foothills. From these elevated points, one can catch glimpses of the ocean. The city boasts a rich history, exemplified by its involvement in the Battle of Savannah in 1774, where it dispatched troops comprising of settlers and slaves. St. Marc is divided into several major districts, including the City Center (the primary commercial hub), Pivert, La Scierie, Ti Bois, Portail Montrouis, Portail Guepe, and newer districts that have emerged in the 21st century like Fleurenceau, Blockauss, Pont Tambour, and Freycineau.
Origins[]
Historians have different accounts of the establishment of Saint-Marc. One version states that French naturalist De Vries dropped anchor in an unexplored bay during a storm on his way to Hispaniola. The sailors were impressed by the bay's safety, beauty, and fertility, leading them to establish a settlement in honor of Saint Mark the Evangelist on April 25, 1695.
Another version claims that French pirates from Dieppe (at the return of looting of Jamaica) settled in St-Marc in 1695 under the leadership of Governor Ducasse. They built permanent residences and utilized salt, as bucanneers, from the mouth of the Artibonite River. One of the adventurers, Point du Sable, was father to the individual who would go on to establish the city of Chicago in the United States of America, Jean Baptiste Pointe de Sable.
History[]
At the time of European encounter, the Taino people lived in a village near the Artibonite Valley's coastal area. They called the vicinity Amani-y, possibly meaning "peace from above". A group of French explorers and missionaries came upon the settlement and later erected a chapel on April 25, the feast day of Saint Mark the Evangelist. They named the place "Saint-Marc" in his honor.
Historical affiliations | |
---|---|
Ancient kingdoms of Hispaniola | Early historic era – 1493 |
Santo-Domingo | 1493–1625 |
Saint-Domingue | 1625–1804 |
First Empire of Haiti | 1804-1806 |
State of Haiti | 1806-1811 |
Kingdom of Haiti | 1811-1820 |
Republic of Spanish Haiti | 1821-1822 |
Republic of Haiti | 1820-1849 |
Second Empire of Haiti | 1849-1859 |
Secnod Haitian Republic | 1859-1957 |
Duvalier Dynasty | 1957-1986 |
Third Haitian Republic | 1986- |
First half of the 18th century
Wealthy planters of France were established in Saint-Marc; they devoted themselves to trade "in righteousness" before touching later on the slave trade, generating enormous profits. The first to settle there were the representatives of the Grou family from Nantes in 1720. The current Haut de Saint-Marc region, known by the official name of Lalouère (4th section), is a territory which has been highlighted and developed by people from the Nantes region, in other words from the Pays de la Loire region and the Loire-Atlantique department. The settlers, transplanted to the new setting of Saint-Marc and finding striking resemblances to their native Loire, then called it "La Loire" (the Loire) which became much later "Lalouère". The city of Saint-Marc, hardly founded, also saw descending on it a significant number of explorers and merchants and representatives of the large houses in Le Havre. In 1748, the Foache House, established in Le Havre, under the corporate name Veuve Foache et Fils, established a family trading post in Saint-Marc. This establishment was located on rue Dauphine, not far from Fort Bergerac (Bégirac) which unfortunately did not resist the onslaught of time. Rue Dauphine has now become Rue Nissage Saget. A Rochelais, by the name of Aimé-Benjamin Fleuriau, who arrived in Saint-Domingue in 1729, largely contributed to the development of trade in Saint-Marc by taking advantage of its port and administrative facilities. He owned plantations at Croix des Bouquets, Arcahaie, and Montrouis and his activities, according to Jacques de Cauna, provided him with an average annual income of 100,000 pounds ($125,000 USD; equal to ~$8 million in todays dollars), considerable for the time. In 1755, Aimé-Benjamin Fleuriau sold his Montrouis habitations to Jean-Pasquet de Lugé, another great settler of his state whose name will remain henceforth attached to this locality located a few kilometers south of the City of Saint-Marc and since called Délugé.
Second half of the 18th century
During this period, the city experienced significant growth in all aspects. Port activity continued to grow with the volume of maritime traffic. Thus France, on the recommendation of its colonial administration, instituted Treasurer of the Navy post at Saint-Marc. According to Moreau de Saint-Méry and Françoise Thésée, Saint-Marc had around 693 registered plantations, including 16 sugar refineries, 420 indigo factories, 114 cotton factories and 143 coffee plantations, while for Gonaives the figures were 3 sugar factories, 135 indigo factories, 15 cotton factories and 50 coffee plantations. Most (about 90%) of the production of the Artibonite, known as the district of Saint-Marc at that time, was exported through the port of Saint-Marc. Conversely, the needs of the area were also met through this port. Other significant sectors had emerged, such as numerous distilleries, various types of mills and forges. Alongside economic activities, there was also a growing interest in leisure pursuits, including painting, singing, classical dances, and particularly music. The settlers embraced a taste for elegance and refinement, indulging in pleasures at the expense of the servile class. Saint-Marcoise society, in many ways, mirrored the French colonial society of Saint-Domingue, creating a microcosm of its own.
Educationally, Saint-Marc was similar to the rest of the colony. The colonial administration was more focused on business rather than establishing a public education system. However, the inhabitants of Saint-Marc consistently expressed their desire for public schools and educational resources. Wealthy settlers either sent their children to schools in France or hired tutors from there. Despite their pursuit of wealth and pleasure, the settlers of Saint-Marc still prioritized physical development and sanitation. They invested in canals, wastewater purification, road improvements, urban planning, and the restoration of public spaces. The merchants and managers from France also played a role in enhancing the city's landscape through their construction projects. Notably, the Bordeaux merchants, the Saint-Macary company, and Jean-Jacques Bretton-Deschapelles played a significant role in this regard. In summary, the implementation of construction projects and municipal infrastructure greatly contributed to the overall aesthetic value and architectural beauty of the city.
Saint-Marc and the American War of Independence
The history of Saint-Marc is full of events worth mentioning. The city and its land have a glorious past as evidenced by the role it played in the Battle of Savanah. To answer the call of American revolutionaries in their fight against England, France sent a former governor of the colony, Count Charles Henri d'Estaing, to Saint-Domingue to recruit volunteers willing to fight alongside the English colonists. The The town of Saint-Marc was precisely the place of assembly and departure of a contingent of 1,500 freedmen, among other troops, who distinguished themselves brilliantly on the battlefields of Savannah and Yorktown. It is important to emphasize the participation of natives of the Saint-Marc district in the American War of Independence. According to Doctor Clément Lanier, among the wounded returned from the military campaign were Césaire Savary of Saint-Marc, 23, Christophe Mornet of Gonaives, age 30, and Barthélemy-Médor Icard of Petite Rivière de l'Artibonite, 26. The Icard family was mainly rooted in Saint-Marc where it had many members.
Assembly of Saint-Marc
The formation of the Assembly of Saint-Marc caused much social and political unrest in the colony. The protagonists of the movement had chosen to sit in the town of Saint-Marc. Numbering 212, the deputies elected from the three provinces North, West and South, were convened in Saint-Marc for March 25, 1790 and April 15, under the presidency of Thomas Millet, they constituted themselves in the "General Assembly of the French part of Saint-Domingue". In proceeding thus, the deputies orchestrated a real coup de force to the colonial order because the royal authorization only stipulated the constitution of a simple colonial assembly. Claiming to be above the Governor General, the Assembly of Saint-Marc multiplied the most revolutionary decisions. It took charge of the management of the navy, the areas of war and diplomacy. After publishing its own constitutional laws on the colony on May 28, 1790, it informed all the decrees and instructions issued by the Constituent Assembly of France. The Assembly of Saint-Marc decided to open the ports of the colony to foreigners and made it known that Saint-Domingue should be independent. A strong smell of civil war was in the air. At Saint-Marc itself, several bloody clashes between supporters of the Assembly (red Pompons) and representatives of the king (white Pompons) preluded chaos. Governor Peynier and Colonel Mauduit held at Port-au-Prince a council of war and decreed the dissolution of the Assembly of Saint-Marc. Faced with his refusal to comply, the king's representatives lacerated the troops (900 soldiers) on the heels of the 85 remaining autonomist deputies who, at this announcement, took refuge on Le Léopard, a warship then in the harbor at Saint-Marc. Under the guidance of their president, the deputies chose to go to France to plead their case before the Constituent Assembly rather than surrender.
The 19th century
Historical personalities buried in Saint-Marc include General Gabart, hero of Independence, and Presidents Philippe Guerrier and Nissage Saget.
Despite being shielded by the surrounding mountains, a cyclone managed to wreak havoc in 1772 by destroying the harbor and altering the course of the Grande Rivière. Saint-Marc was a key region in rebellion against the French settlers during the War of Independence. In February 1802, upon the arrival of French troops led by General Boudet as part of the Leclerc expedition, General Dessalines ordered the city to be set on fire. The city faced another tragedy on August 29, 2002, when a devastating flood struck, resulting in significant loss of life, livestock, and property.
Geography[]
The City of Saint-Marc is located at 19.1049° N, 72.6949° W. According to the IHSI, this commune has a total land area of 556.56 square kilometers (214.89 square miles), of which 401.16 km2 (72%) is suburban, 142.22 km2 (26%) is rural, and 13.18 km2 (2%) is urban. It is bordered on the north by the town of Grande-Saline, on the northeast by the city of Dessalines, on the east by the towns of Liancourt and Verrettes, and on the south by the city of Arcahaie. Apart from its six communal sections, which are further subdivided into at least 129 localities and 124 habitations, Saint-Marc also has a municipal district, Montrouis, which belongs to the 1st communal section of Délugé.
It is positioned in the northern part of a crescent-shaped littoral plain, bounded on the west by the sea and on the east by mountainous landforms that lock it to the south and north; essentially a tableland ringed by mountain ranges. Of the many beaches grazing its coastline, Amani-y Beach remains the most-visited. It is located between the basin of the Artibonite and the Gulf of Gonâve, (entrance to the Bay of Saint-Marc), facing the north side of the Chaîne des Matheux.
The land area of Saint Marc is largely composed of hills and mountains. The climate varies from tropical to cool. This coastal municipality is crossed by the Route Nationale 1. Only 104 kilometers (65 miles) and about about fifty kilometers (31 miles) separate it respectively from Port-au-Prince and Gonaïves.
Neighborhoods[]
SMC | Saint-Marc | 266,642 | |||
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VSM | Ville de Saint-Marc | Urban | 149,653 | ||
QMT | Quartier de Montrouis | Urban | 8,630 | ||
DLG | 1ère Section Deluge | Rural section | 13,606 | Augier, Bénittier, Beyer, Dauphine, Dégence, Délugé, Duperrier, Etang, Fond-Paul, Grande-Savane, Gresseau, Gressot, Langlois, Lanzac, La Source, Limeau, Montrouis, Piatte, Pinard, Plaine Olive, Raboto, Robert, Vidon | |
BOF | 2ème Section Bois Neuf | Rural section | 25,940 | Anse Pirogue, Bachette, Banique, Bois Neuf, Bourgeois, Camp Nini, Canelle, Canot, Chadrine, Chapelet, Drouin, Duclos, Fourien, Frecineau, Gardère, Goyavier, Grand-Fond, Jeanton, La Colline, La Coude, La Rochelle, Mare Rosanne, Marie Ti Place, Massambi, Périsse, Pierre-Payen, Platon-Montagne, Risque, Rousseau, Roussette, Sisal, Tamarin, Terre-Noire, Ti Place | |
GOY | 3ème Section Goyavier | Rural | 10,765 | Ca Day, Coukio, Dogen, Doguen, Fond-Pierrot, Georges Jean, Gilbert, Goyavier, Gros Morne, Janette, Lampré, Morin, Pavajonc, Popotte, Robion | |
LAL | 4ème Section Lalouère | Rural | 15,712 | Babe, Bel Air, Bellevue, Bimani, Bobe Bertrand, Bois Etienne, Bois l'état, Dipson, Godé, Grand-Fond, Guichamp, Guignon, Henry, Jambon, Janain, La Garème, Laloue, Lamothe, Motaca, Painson, Rassemble, Toman, Viéllot, Villejoint | |
BZL | 5ème Section Bocozelle | Rural | 32,894 | Acul Basse Terre, Béllange, Bertrand, Bertreng, Bocozel, Boudet ti Place, Camp de l'ODVA, Chauvet, Chevreau-des-Cloches, Colmini, Croix-Mulâtresse, Danache, Deschatelles, Dipson, Duclas, Ferry, Gregoire, Gros-Morne, Grosse-Roche, Guiton, Jacques, L'Amérique, Léocéane, Lubin, Modelle, Molette, Petit-Pothenot, Poirrier, Portail Guepe, Saline des Cotes, Terre Noire | |
CTT | 6ème Section Charrette | Rural | 9442 | Charette, Dorval, La Vigie, Moreau, Pivert, Pont Bambou, Pont Charriot, Portail Montrouis, Terre Blanche, Venotte, Yousse |
Hydrography
The municipality is crisscrossed by several rivers, such as the Grande Rivière of Saint-Marc and the Petite Rivière. In the 1st section Délugé, you can find the Lanzac and Abricot rivers. The Freycineau River and the Artibonite River, originating in the Dominican Republic, are also present. The Great Saint-Marc River is fed by two tributaries, namely the Veuve River and the Gobe River.
Demographics
Year | Population | |
---|---|---|
1896 | 20,000 | |
1950 | 53,500 | +168% |
1969 | 61,359 | +15% |
1982 | 98,189 | +60% |
1998 | 154,257 | +57% |
2005 | 209,639 | +26% |
2009 | 242,485 | +16% |
2015 | 266,642 | +10% |
In 2005, the commune of Saint-Marc had an estimated population of 110,919 women (53%) and 98,720 men (47%). By 2012, this proportion remained consistent, with an overall estimate of 52% women and 48% men, totaling 123,178 men. Among this population, there are 162,828 individuals who are 18 years old and above.
Land occupation
Agriculture occupies nearly 40% of the commune's land. The 3rd and 4th sections rely on rain for irrigation, while the 1st, 2nd, 5th, and 6th sections are irrigated. The mountain areas make up 42% of the municipality's total area, while the lowland areas make up 25%. The plains are covered with various types of trees, including banana, real, coconut, and avocado trees. The savanna zones, specifically the rice zone, occupy 17% and correspond to the communal section of 5eBocozelle. Pastures cover almost 6% of the land, while the forest (4%) and agroforestry (5%) areas make up the remaining percentages.
However, the most significant and imminent threat to the city is the diminishing cultivable land. The expansion of concrete onto farmland poses a severe challenge. Many once beautiful gardens and fields, including sugar cane fields, bananas, potatoes, and maize, which were once located on the outskirts and beyond the city, have been sold, transferred, or made available for construction purposes, usually large houses. Consequently, the cultivable areas are steadily decreasing.
Climate
The municipality of Saint-Marc falls within the semi-arid tropical climate zone, characterized by hot summers, sometimes scorching hot, and warm to cool winters. Precipitation in this area is generally minimal. Saint-Marc is influenced by the local steppe climate, typically found in savannahs and vast plains. The region experiences minimal annual rainfall, with two distinct climatic variations. The rainy season spans from April to October with an average of 1,300 mm (51 inches) per year, while the dry period lasts from November to March, with an average of 220 mm (9 inches) per year. On average, the monthly rainfall is 128 mm (5 inches). The average annual temperature of the municipality is around 26 degrees Celsius (79* F).
Environmental risks
The low-lying regions in the northern sector of the commune are at a high risk of flooding, particularly impacting the 5th communal section of Bocozelle. Additionally, this area experiences a generous amount of rainfall, slightly exceeding that of the southern part of the municipality. Annual precipitation levels fall between 600 and 1400 mm (24 to 55 in.). On the other hand, erosion risk fluctuates among various zones but generally remains stable overall, impacting nearly three-quarters of the municipal land.
Economy[]
Economically, Saint-Marc is a bustling area with a wide range of activities. However, it does not have any large enterprises that can be considered as major players in the industry. The economic activities in Saint-Marc encompass various sectors such as transportation, water, automobile mechanics, food, catering, hotels, and entertainment. This has led to the presence of ten supermarkets, 350 shops, seven hardware stores, twenty car garages, and four gas stations (National, Total, Sol, and Easy Gaz). Additionally, there are 50 carpentry shops, 55 hairdressing salons, 75 bakeries, five craft enterprises, and 300 restaurants. Among these, the most sought-after restaurants are Pivert's two night establishments: Kay Foun and Villanne-Marie. Furthermore, Saint-Marc is home to transfer offices like Unitransfer, Western Union, CAM Transfer / Money Gram, as well as commercial banks such as Unibank, Sogebank and the National Bank. There are also six institutions (SOKOLAVIM, FAHF, SODARME, FINCA, ACME and Capital credit), along with numerous branches of prominent local companies involved in various sectors. The include brewery depots like BRANA, La Couronne, Sejourné, Tropic S.A, and Larco, as well as mobile phone agencies like Digicel and Natcom.
In terms of accommodation, Saint-Marc boasts 24 hotels, with Club Indigo, Moulin sur Mer, Xaragua, Wahoo Bay, and Kaliko being the most renowned. It is worth noting that a significant portion of the city's economic activities take place in the informal sector.
Commerce plays a vital role in Saint-Marc, with many individuals finding employment as merchants. They either have their own stands in the market or work at a boutik (a "convenience store" stand). Additionally, there are numerous street vendors who carry baskets of goods on their heads, and they also sell canned milk to passers-by. However, not many of these products are manufactured locally in Saint-Marc.
The majority of products sold in the city are received as donations or surplus items from second-hand stores in the United States. The markets in Saint-Marc operate daily and offer a wide variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables. Moreover, the city hosts a charcoal market for cooking material. As charcoal is used for much of the cooking, it is manufactured locally and supports a large work force.
In addition to the charcoal market, Saint-Marc's economy is heavily influenced by the production of agricultural products in the region. Near Saint-Marc Harbor, in Deye Legliz, daily food markets cater to the needs of the residents. However, it is on Saturdays that most residents flock to the markets to ensure they have enough food supplies for the entire week.
The Boulevard area is home to a bustling flea market, offering a wide range of second-hand items for sale, including clothing, electronics, shoes, toys, and bicycles. Many individuals from Port-au-Prince are drawn to the markets in Saint-Marc due to the affordable prices.
Shopping[]
Saint-Marc is home to a variety of retail brick and mortar establishments, such as pharmacies, open-air markets, bakeries offering sweet baked goods (along with wheat and cassava bread), convenience stores, beauty salons, and specialty shops selling fabric, hardware, and car parts.
Infrastructure[]
Transportation
Transportation in the Saint-Marc area is very efficient. It is situated 100 kilometers (62 miles) away from Port-au-Prince and 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Gonaïves. They are both linked by Route Nationale 1, which extends all the way up to the coastal towns like Montrouis, before reaching its terminus at the northern port of Cap-Haïtien. The whole city is crossed from north to south by Route Nationale 1, one of the most important roads of the country. As it passes through Saint-Marc, it follows the city's main commercial artery, Rue Louverture.
The most common mode of transportation is the motorcycle (mobylette), due its low maintenance cost and fuel consumption. Generally, people fit as many as four on a bike even though the mobylettes are designed for a maximum of two people. People often squeeze up to four passengers on a bike meant for two. Bicycles are also popular, while cars are considered a luxury. The streets are not pedestrian-friendly, with motorcycles and bicycles crowding the roads, limiting pedestrian movement. The presence of cars and large trucks further poses risks to pedestrians.
St. Marc blends a unique combination of urban and rural lifestyles. It is seen as the beginning of the countryside for those in Port-au-Prince. Goats freely wander the city streets, and residents often have cows or chickens.
Port of Saint Marc[]
Saint-Marc, similar to numerous other cities in Haiti, has grown and expanded around its port operations. The port serves as a gateway for international trade, facilitating the exchange of goods with foreign countries. Situated in the heart of the historic center, the wharf stands as a prominent feature. However, the bustling port activities and the subsequent increase in road traffic pose a significant challenge to the city's urban activities. In fact, these factors have a detrimental effect on the overall urban environment.
Education
The school district in the municipality is overseen by an inspector from the Ministry of National Education of Youth and Sports. There are around 233 schools, including preschools, primary schools, secondary schools, as well as fourteen technical and professional schools.
The Artibonite Department faces challenges in providing adequate access to basic education, with Saint-Marc particularly lacking in this regard. Some of the more reputable schools offer instruction in both French and English, enabling students to become proficient in these languages as well as Creole, their mother tongue.
Health
The Artibonite Department is also ranked low in terms of health services. Despite the efforts of a prominent American NGO managing the Saint-Nicolas Hospital and the supervision of dispensaries by the Regional Office of the UCS (Communal Health Unit), Saint-Marc is only moderately ranked (12) among the 15 communes in the department. The prevalence of food insecurity tends to be high, ranging from 51% to 60%.
The Ministry of Public Health and Population is represented in the commune by a municipal health office. The city itself is equipped with five hospitals, 24 clinics, two health centers with beds, and four health centers without beds, totaling to 35 health facilities. Additionally, there are 47 doctors, sixteen dentists, 57 nurses, 53 auxiliaries, eight laboratory technicians, and a radiologist who provide healthcare services in these institutions.
Utilities
The municipality's water supply is sustained by 39 water points, including 18 rivers, 19 springs, three lagoons, and a pond. Other water points were 22 single boreholes, twelve artesian wells, six valves and two pumps.
Electricity of Haiti (EDH). The hydroelectric network ensures an average of 45 hours of electricity per week.
In terms of electricity, the urban section and most localities within the municipality have access to electricity. The distribution of electricity in this area is managed by the Electricity of Haiti (EDH). The hydroelectric network ensures an average of 45 hours of electricity per week.
Although Saint-Marc is not classified as an arid region, the availability of running water, specifically drinking water, is quite unsteady within the municipal area. Saint-Marc is not included in the list of 26 communes (out of 145) that have relatively satisfactory accessibility to running water. Furthermore, the high population density has led to an imbalance in water availability, which even the management by the French-Haitian firm SESAM (Society of Waters of Saint-Marc) cannot fully address. More than 60% of urban households, excluding peri-urban areas, are not connected to the current distribution network. Only 20% of the rural population in Saint-Marc relies on a drinking water supply system (SAEP) for their water consumption.
Administration
The city of Saint-Marc has various government offices and facilities including a public prosecutor's office, a civil court, registrars, peace courts, a police station, and sub-police stations. Additionally, there is a prison in the municipality.
The city is governed by a municipal council consisting of three members, including the mayor, while each communal section is overseen by a Council of the Communal Section (CASEC).
As per the Haitian Constitution of 1987, the municipal council is required to have the support of a Municipal Assembly made up of representatives from the Communal Sections. Decisions made by the CASECs in the Communal Sections must be approved by the ASECs or Assemblies of the communal sections.
The Vice-delegation, formerly called prefecture (until 1986), has its seat in the city and represents the President of the Republic at the county level, which includes the Arrondissement of Saint-Marc, namely the communes of Saint-Marc, Liancourt, Verrettes and La Chapelle.
Various decentralized government agencies operate within the municipality, such as the General Directorate of Taxation (DGI), the Regional Office of Public Works, Transport and Communications (TPTC), the Regional Office of Electricity of Haiti (EDH), the Office of Communal Agriculture (BAC), the Office of the National Port Authority (APN), the Regional Office of the ONA (National Insurance Office), and the Municipal Library.
SESAM, a private company, holds a monopoly on water exploitation in urban areas in accordance with the water reform law and through contracts and concessions granted by DINEPA.
Culture[]
Haitians are a very hospitable and welcoming population, including those in Saint-Marc. It is said here that “Bonjou is the passport”, meaning that saying hello opens doors. Every time you see someone you know or have just met, you must say either “bonjou or bonswa”, literally meaning ‘good day’ or ‘good evening’. Typically the person who enters a room makes the greeting.
While Saint-Marc is often referred to as the "Pleasure City" due to its youthful population, the majority of residents live modest lives and work tirelessly to make ends meet.
Although Saint-Marc is known as the “Pleasure City” as many young people reside here; the majority live in humble settings and work extremely hard to make ends meet.
The warmth and hospitality of Saint-Marc residents can sometimes be misconstrued as anger during ordinary interactions, but this is simply a reflection of their zest for life. Music holds a special place in their hearts, with Haitian folk songs being a favorite among voodoo believers. Others enjoy Troubadou, a genre similar to salsa that incorporates drums, trumpets, and guitars, as well as American pop music. Additionally, exchanging jokes is a cherished pastime among the people of Saint-Marc, who have a great appreciation for comedy.
Religion[]
Approximately 130 churches of various faiths were counted in Saint-Marc including Catholic, Baptist, Adventist, Pentecostal, Church of God, Wesleyan and Jehovah's Witness congregations.
eligious adherents in Saint-Marc predominantly follow Catholicism and Vodun, both of which hold significant influence across the nation. Catholicism/Christianity stands as the most prevalent and widely embraced religion in Saint-Marc, with a majority of Haitians attending church services on Sundays. The introduction of Roman Catholicism to Saint-Domingue can be traced back to the French colonists, who endeavored to convert enslaved Africans with the help of missionary priests and others. Presently, around 80% of Haitians actively practice Catholicism, often incorporating elements of Vodun into their beliefs. Evangelical Protestant and Baptist churches also maintain a strong presence in Saint-Marc, with a large portion of the local population actively engaging with their respective congregations as vital centers of community and cultural identity. It is not uncommon to hear groups of individuals singing hymns in the streets on any given day.
Religious believers follow mostly Catholicism and Vodun. Both are prevalent throughout the country. Catholicism/Christianity is the most widespread and generally accepted religion in St-Marc. Most Haitians attend church on Sundays. Roman Catholicism was brought by the French colonists who settled Saint-Domingue; missionary priests and others worked to convert enslaved Africans. Some 80% of Haitians are practicing Catholics, sometimes combining it with elements of Vodun. churches are also very common in St-Marc. The majority of residents are very involved in their church as centers of community and cultural identity. On any given day, groups of people singing hymns can also be heard throughout the streets.
Voodoo or Vodun, originating from the blending of various West African religions brought by slaves, derives its name from an African term signifying spirit. This belief system is deeply entrenched in the rural areas of Saint-Marc, where the population tends to be more hesitant towards embracing Western medicine.
Organizations[]
In the commune of Saint-Marc, various non-governmental organizations are actively involved in implementing development initiatives. Reports indicate that there are four political parties, 33 people's organizations, three non-commercial co-operatives, two NGOs, three international organizations, and more than one hundred grassroots community organizations (CBOs) operating in the commune.
The Institute of Technology and Animation (ITECA) has been providing support to the peasant movement in the Matheux region for over a decade. They have partnered with farmers' organizations, including mixed and women's groups, which cover six sections (1re Délugé, 2e Bois Neuf, 3e Goyavier, 4e Désarmes, 5e Bastien, and 6e Terre Natte) across two municipalities (Saint-Marc and Verrettes).
ITECA has assisted two platforms consisting of 10 women's organizations in Saint-Marc and Verrettes, as well as two mixed platforms comprising 17 organizations. These platforms have a combined membership of 3462 individuals, including 1895 women and 369 young people.
Communication
The city of Saint-Marc has fourteen radio stations, a newspaper/magazine and three television stations.
Telephone services are provided by two mobile private telephone companies, Digicel and Natcom.
Leisure[]
Saint-Marc offers a diverse range of fascinating attractions and points of interest. Notably, the city is home to several historical and archaeological landmarks, including Forts Diamant and Blockaus situated on the northern peak of the mountain (northwest and northeast respectively). Additionally, the Guillon colonial mill, Gode River Falls, and the cave Voûte à Rober (located near the Janin habitation) can be found in the 4th section of the city. Furthermore, the north is adorned with the picturesque Grosse Roche Beach, while the south hosts the serene Amani-y Beach.
For those seeking leisure activities, visitors can explore a museum, enjoy performances at the theater, or indulge in reading at any of the three libraries. Additionally, there are six cinemas, a football (soccer) pitch, volleyball court, basketball court, and tennis court for sports enthusiasts. Moreover, twelve nightclubs provide entertainment options for those looking to dance the night away. Furthermore, the city is home to 43 gaguères, adding to the vibrant nightlife scene.
Football (soccer), basketball, and volleyball are the most popular sports in Saint-Marc, attracting a significant following and participation.
Regarding cultural heritage, Saint-Marc showcases a blend of colonial, historical, and natural sites and monuments. With a rich and eventful history in commerce, the town of Saint-Marc holds a prominent position among other communes and has played a significant role in the country's history.
Music
Various Haitian musical groups have emerged over time, such as Les Formidables. Although this particular group has disbanded due to members living abroad, their music continues to have a lasting impact on the culture. In Saint-Marc, Virtuose is a highly acclaimed group, alongside BC and Gwoup 703.
RapCreole has gained popularity among the younger generation, incorporating rhythms inspired by traditional Haitian music. Notable RapKreyol artists like BC (Barikad Crew), Skwardy, Izolan, and Fantom have made a mark in the music scene. Sebastien Pierre is a well-known R&B artist.
Zomò, a beloved singer from Saint-Marc, gained widespread recognition in 2014 with his hit song "Life goes on", which was one of the best in Haiti.
Food
If the people of Saint-Marc have a passion for music, their love for food is just as strong, if not stronger. Food holds a significant place in their daily lives, as meals serve as an important aspect of their social interactions. Locally grown staples such as plantains, rice, and pasta are present in almost every meal. Seafood, including crab, dried cod, and various fresh fish, is also regularly enjoyed from the nearby coastal waters. To prevent overheating and excess moisture indoors, cooking is primarily done outside. The range of flavors in their cuisine varies from sweet to spicy seasonings. The local economy of Saint-Marc thrives on commerce, with a daily farmers market offering new and second-hand goods, as well as produce and meat markets.
While goat meat is the most commonly consumed meat, chicken and beef are also enjoyed regularly. Haitians have a preference for either very spicy food (even peanut butter is spicy) or very sweet food (sugar is added to already sweet cereals). Spices and spicy peppers are generously used in Haitian cuisine.
Saint-Marc is famous for its popcorn.
A significant amount of produce is locally grown, including bananas, plantains, mangoes, cherries, corn, manioc, rice, and tomatoes. The typical resident of Saint-Marc consumes a lot of fruit. A dish specific to Saint-Marc is rice with sauce pois, which can be mixed with crab, goat meat, or both. Other dishes include banane peze (fried plantains) served with pikliz, a gardiniera-like spicy mixture of carrots, cabbage, and peppers.
Soup is usually prepared on Sundays to utilize the leftovers from the week. It typically consists of various types of meat, potatoes, and carrots. Fresh fish, usually sole, is also regularly consumed. This fish is cooked over an open fire with a marinade made of mayonnaise and various spices.
Soup is typically prepared on Sunday to make use of all the week's leftovers. It usually consists of several types of meat, potatoes, and carrots. Fresh fish, typically sole, is also consumed regularly. This fish is cooked over an open fire with a mayonnaise-based marinade mixed with various spices.
In terms of desserts, Saint-Marc offers a variety of sweet treats. Riz du lait, a rice pudding made with cinnamon, milk, sugar, and butter, is a common dessert. Other desserts with Creole names include dous makos (Haitian fudge), dous kokoye (homemade coconut candy), pen patat (sweet potato bread), and pen diri (rice bread).
Saint-Marc beaches[]
Families and friends often enjoy going to the beach on weekends, especially on Sundays after church. The most popular beaches in Saint-Marc are Grosse Roche and Amani-y.
Amani-y beach, known for its white sandy shores, has an intriguing history. After being abandoned for over 25 years, it was eventually acquired by the current developer. One of its notable features is the "Zombie hole," a 200-meter-deep reef that features fascinating marine life like the impressive "Elephant Ear" fan coral, sponge tubes, black coral, blue tang, and sea urchins. Divers with experience have described Amani-y as remarkable and unlike any other. On the eastern end of the beach, as you venture into chest-high water, you'll encounter a breathtaking drop-off, a wall that goes down hundreds of meters, making it a great spot for diving. At around 120 feet, a series of enormous sponges come emerges. Snorkeling is also popular in the shallower waters for those who don't dive.
Additionally, there are several historical sites near the beach, including the Palace with 365 doors and 52 windows in Petite Rivière de l'Artibonite, the forts in Marchand Dessalines, the pilgrimage site of Saut-d'Eau, and the Port of Saint-Marc.
Notable citizens[]
Marc Louis Bazin (1932-2010): Politician and former Prime Minister
Clovis Désinor (1914-2001): Politician
Hector Hyppolite (1894-1948): Painter
Antoine Levelt (1910- ): Officer in the army of Haiti. Member of the Military Executive Committee of 1946
Smarck Michel (1937-2012): Politician
Pierre Pinchinat (1746-1804): Deputy representing Saint Domingue in the Assembly of 500
René Piquion (1906 – 2001): Writer, doctor and politician
Nissage Saget (1810-1880): former President of Haiti
Emilcar Simil: painter
Armand Thoby (1841-1899): Politician and author
Saint-Marc Arrondissement: Saint-Marc, La Chapelle, Verrettes, Montrouis, Liancourt
References[]
The City of Saint-Marc and the march of time [1]
Bulletin - Issue 91 [2]
ITECA [3]
Présentation de la Ville de Saint Marc [4]
Arrondissements et Communes: Artibonite [5]
Saint-Marc, Haiti [6]
Ywam, Saint-Marc [7]
Michael Vedrine