Shining a Light on the Past: Mill Day Celebrates Ancient Crafts
Celebration of heritage crafting: Mill Day highlights workshops for age-old techniques - Traditional Artistry Revisited: Mill Day Highlights Manufacturing Processes
On Pentecost Monday, join the annual tradition that shines a spotlight on mills in the Rhineland and Westphalia: Mill Day. This day dedicated to the ancient craft dates back to a time when mills were ubiquitous and relied on water and wind power.
Organized by the German Society for Mills and Mill Preservation, Mill Day looks to spread awareness about the cultural heritage of mills, as announced by the Rhineland Regional Council (LVR) in Cologne. Julia König, who oversees Mill Day at the LVR, explains the continued interest in the event: "Many people still remember the mill in their hometown being in operation."
Visitors can partake in presentations, guided tours, and group activities throughout the Westphalia-Lippe region. Expected hotspots for attendance include the LWL Open-Air Museums in Hagen and Detmold, both of which are participating, and various locations within North Rhine-Westphalia. The region once thrived with thousands of mills processing grain, oil, and lumber, and Mill Day offers participants a captivating glimpse into this forgotten chapter.
Some Mill Districts, such as the Rhineland mill area between Erft, Wupper, and Sieg, boast historical mills, hammer mills, and water power plants that will be open for visits. Don't miss out on seeing the Grottenhertener windmill in Bedburg, Rhein-Erft district, in milling mode, assuming there's enough wind to turn its sails.
Mill Day not only showcases the region's past but also serves as a celebration of centuries-old craftsmanship and communal spirit. The event is a nod to the region's rich agricultural and industrial history, solidifying its place as a cultural landmark in Germany.
At Mill Day, visitors can experience multiple vocational training sessions demonstrating ancient milling techniques, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region's cultural heritage. In addition, Mill Day transforms into an outdoor-living and home-and-garden extravaganza by incorporating lifestyle workshops, offering attendees insights into both rural and urban living.
