Discover 150 years of DEME!

In 2026, DEME celebrates 150 years of marine and environmental engineering. From our early roots in 1876, we have grown from our origins in dredging and marine works into a leading, diversified group - shaped by expertise, innovation, resilience and a constant drive to push boundaries. 

Throughout this anniversary year, we’ll take you on a journey through our history, sharing stories and moments that show how challenges were approached, solutions were developed and ambitions kept moving forward. Across our channels and on this dedicated anniversary website, you can discover the people, projects and breakthroughs that made DEME what it is today. This website will be updated weekly with new stories. Throughout the year, we will use #DEME150 to share and connect these stories. 

As we reflect on 150 years, we continue to look ahead with the same spirit that defines us: We Care. We Dare. We Deliver.

1914

Navigating the First World War

DEME 1914 - Navigating WW1 (1)
DEME 1914 - Navigating WW1 (2)

The First World War brought growing disruption to hydraulic works across Europe. Although not all activity ceased, projects were increasingly affected by uncertainty and difficult operating conditions. One such exception was Le Havre, where amazingly, the founders managed to continue dredging and port works throughout the war.

Nearby, the coastal town of Sainte-Adresse hosted the Belgian government in exile, functioning as a temporary administrative center.

Through these turbulent years, the DEME founders focused on developing their technical expertise and professional relationships, maintaining a vital thread of continuity, on the eve of developments that would soon profoundly disrupt the company’s foundations.

Disclaimer

With 150 years of history, there are countless moments to tell. In this anniversary year, we share a non-exhaustive selection of stories that illustrate how DEME became the company it is today. These stories are drawn from a variety of historical sources, including books by authors such as Dirk Podevijn and Mon Vanderosteyne, company publications and the input of colleagues across the organization. As this website looks back on 150 years of heritage, it features archival material from different eras. Safety standards and working practices have evolved significantly over time and should be understood in their historical context.