WATER MILLER
Water mills have colored Dutch landscapes for centuries. They frequently formed the backdrop for the paintings of the great masters. This way, they left a lasting impression of the typical Dutch landscapes, which are inextricably linked to water mills.
However, we see little of the functionality in these works. Like the windmill, the watermill converts power from a natural element into energy and then harnesses it for heavy work. While windmills were not invented until the 12th century, we assume that around 1200 BC in Mesopotamia, so-called water paddlewheels were already being used for agricultural watering. The power produced by a water mill greatly surpassed human and animal muscle power and brought many new possibilities. This made it a true revolution in the technical development of mankind.
Between 1500 and 1800, there were about 2,250 to 4,500 water mills in the Maas River basin. Today, 450 of these remain, including 108 in the Netherlands. A picturesque water mill can be found in the woods of the Veluwe, called Molecaten. Originally this was a water mill producing paper, but it burned down in 1857. It was rebuilt, with the aim of grinding corn. Today, a group of volunteers ensures that this mill can keep running.
But this is not an easy task with every mill. The popularity of being a miller is in fact declining tremendously. If the new generation can no longer be enthused to become millers, this profession will disappear, and mills will come to a standstill. Any mill that does not run will quickly fall into disrepair.