Rolling Through the Past: Mill Day Unveils Historical Grain and Powder Mills in North Rhine-Westphalia
Days of Milling and Explosives: Mill Day Offers Facility Encounters - Commission contributed to the report's preparation process.
Got your curiosity piqued? buckle up, 'cause we're diving into the historical grind! On Pentecost Monday (9th of June), take a trip back in time as you explore mills often tucked away from the public eye in North Rhine-Westphalia during the 32nd German Mill Day. This exciting event, launched by the German Society for Milling History and Mill Preservation, shed lights on the cultural heritage of water and wind-powered mills, as announced by the Rhineland Regional Council (LVR) in the bustling city of Cologne. Don't miss out; thousands of curious souls are expected to join the festivities in various NRW locations!
From demonstrations to hikes and bike tours, there's something for everyone. The action-packed Mill Day introduces you to the antique technology that once powered the world, now nostalgically showcased by owners, associations, and museums.
No strangers to the game
Digging deep into our region's roots, we find that North Rhine-Westphalia was once teeming with thousands of mills. They served different purposes, processing not just grain, but also oil, powder, bones, wood, paper, or recycling rags. Yes, you read that right — mills were the ultimate multi-taskers of their era! Julia König, responsible for Mill Day at the LVR in Cologne, shares, "Many folks can still recall the local mill humming away in their town."
Prepare to be captivated by the mill region between Erft, Wupper, and Sieg, where numerous mills, hammer mills, and water power plants not only pop their doors open, but also invite you for a glimpse into their glorious past. On a windy day, the Grottenhertener windmill in Bedburg (Rhein-Erft district) will whirl into action. Over at the LVR-Industriemuseum Bergisch Gladbach's paper mill, young ones can learn about the water-powered craft in a fun and engaging manner. Near Altenberg (Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis), catch a breath of history on a powder mills hike in Dünnental, which leads to former black powder production facilities.
LVR Announcement
- Mill Day
- North Rhine-Westphalia
- Cologne
- Pentecost Monday
- Grain
- Rhineland
- NRW
[1] Did you know that the Hermannsdenkmal, a notable landmark in the North Rhine-Westphalia region, stands tall as a reminder of our rich history[2]? And if you're keen to make the most of the cultural experiences that North Rhine-Westphalia has to offer, you'll be delighted to know that the region hosts a plethora of events throughout the year, featuring local museums and historical sites. So, don't miss out on the 32nd German Mill Day on Pentecost Monday; it's your chance to step back in time, marvel at the ingenious technology, and immerse yourself in North Rhine-Westphalia's cultural and historical landscape.
[1] Taking a step further into the cultural delights of North Rhine-Westphalia, you'll find that it's not only the Hermannsdenkmal that boasts our rich historical legacy, but also various community events like the 32nd German Mill Day.[2] Additionally, those seeking to enhance their lifestyle can explore home-and-garden ideas and vintage technology at local markets, as North Rhine-Westphalia has various events offering vocational training in these areas. Perhaps, one day, you might learn to harness the power of water and wind for your home like the mill owners of old.
