Tejn Mølle

A Post Mill on Bornholm, Denmark

History

• The Tejn Mølle, also known as Melsted Stubmølle, is a post mill located on the Danish island of Bornholm. Its exact age is unknown, but it was likely built around 1800.
• Originally situated at Aarsballe, the mill was moved to Tejn in approximately 1850. Despite being positioned at the top of a cliff, the wooden structure was not high enough.
• In 1882, the mill was repositioned on a round base, allowing for adjustments to be made.
• The owner, Peter Mikkelsen, took advantage of this move to replace the old sails with new ones, complete with adjustable flaps.
• Notably, the sails rotate in an anticlockwise direction, a feature uncommon among post mills. Mikkelsen also enlarged the mill, both in height and depth.
• His son operated the mill until 1941, when Foreningen Bornholm took it over to ensure its upkeep.
• By 2000, the mill was no longer functional due to surrounding trees and buildings. In 2006, it was decided that the mill should be moved to Landbrugsmuseet Melstedgård, where it was inaugurated in 2009.

Architecture

The Tejn Mølle is a post mill with a round base, characteristic of its type. The wooden structure features two floors: the lower floor houses the machinery, while the upper floor contains the grinding stones and sails. The mill's design allows for efficient use of wind energy to power the grinding stones.

Location

The Tejn Mølle is situated in Melstedgård, near Gudhjem on the Danish island of Bornholm. The location provides a scenic view of the surrounding landscape, with the nearby Viggo Kuresvej serving as a notable landmark.

Current Status and Use

The mill is now part of Bornholms Landbrugsmuseum (Bornholm's Farming Museum) and is open to visitors. While it no longer functions as a working mill, its historic significance and architectural features make it an important cultural asset.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

The Tejn Mølle was listed as a protected building in 1959, recognizing its historical importance. The museum's efforts to preserve the mill have ensured its continued existence for future generations.

Visiting Information

For those interested in visiting the Tejn Mølle, please note that it is open to the public at Bornholms Landbrugsmuseum. Visitors can explore the mill and learn about its history and significance through interactive exhibits and guided tours.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

• Peter Mikkelsen, the owner who relocated the mill in 1882, played a significant role in its preservation. His son's continued operation of the mill until 1941 also contributed to its upkeep.

Technical Details

Type: Post mill Number of sails: 2 Grinding stones: 2 (located on the upper floor) Windmill type: Smock