Memórias de engenho: uma investigação sobre suas edificações e as práticas cotidianas na região da lagoa Manguaba

Abstract

This study focus on intangible heritage manifestations connected to old units of engenhos bangüê, from one of the most important territory in Alagoas and one of its starting points as a civilization: the surroundings of Lagoa Manguaba. Among the many changes brought by the sugar industry modernization, we decided to concentrate our attention on the abandonment of the old production plants and, consequently, the oblivion of their memories. Six units were selected for the present investigation. The criteria for choosing such units were based upon the remaining of the building complex and the availability of testimonies and memoires about the daily life of those old engenhos, specially chronicles about the work life, festivities, dances and folguedos. The chosen units are called: Novo, Mundaú, Lamarão, Grajaú de Cima, Salgado and Varrela. Information was gathered from image and biographical sources, perceptive evaluation, local visits – both in Alagoas and Pernambuco – and comparing information obtained from the statements of old inhabitants, land owners and employees. There is a scarcity of written documentation about the engenhos in Alagoas under this perspective and even less material dealing with the intangible aspect related to that universe. It’s worth noting, though, the pioneer efforts of Manuel Diégues Junior on engenhos in Alagoas, and the work of Théo Brandão on intangible culture, both responsible for a incredible support to our investigative endeavor. We hope the present dissertation Will positively contribute to the documentation of one of the most significant chapters on the culture of Alagoas, whose impact still present to this day.