Moulin à vent de Pargeat

The Moulin à vent de Pargeat is a historic windmill located in Ally, France.

Overview

• The post mill has been preserved and converted into a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's industrial past.

History

1. Built in 1850, the Moulin à vent de Pargeat was constructed to power a sawmill on the nearby River Dore.
2. The mill operated until its closure in 1955, when it was replaced by more modern machinery.
3. After being abandoned for several decades, the mill was restored and converted into a museum in 1984.

Architecture

The Moulin à vent de Pargeat is a post mill with a single sail and a wooden cap. The mill's structure is made of stone and wood, with a distinctive red-tiled roof.

The interior features original grinding stones and machinery from the late 19th century.

Location

The mill is situated on D 22 in Ally, France, near the confluence of the River Dore and its tributary, the Pargeat stream.

The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills and farmland, with the nearby village of Ally offering a range of amenities and services.

Visiting Information

• The Moulin à vent de Pargeat is open to visitors from April 15th to October 31st, Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Admission fees apply, with discounts available for groups and children.
• Visitors can contact the mill directly at +33 6 51 54 43 69 or via email at visite.ally@free.fr.

Heritage Status

The Moulin à vent de Pargeat is listed as a Monument Historique (MH) in France, with registration number PA00092576.

The mill has been recognized for its historical significance and cultural importance, making it an important part of the region's heritage.

Notable Historical Events

While no specific notable events are recorded for the Moulin à vent de Pargeat, the surrounding area has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages.

The village of Ally was once an important center for textile production, with many mills and factories operating in the region during the Industrial Revolution.

Technical Details

The Moulin à vent de Pargeat features a single sail with a diameter of approximately 3 meters (10 feet).

The grinding stones used by the mill are from the late 19th century, with one stone weighing around 1 ton.