Altes Wasserhaus

The Altes Wasserhaus, located in Schmelz, Germany, is a historic watermill that has been in operation since its construction in 1850.

History

• The mill was built to serve the local community's needs for grain milling and other industrial purposes.
• The Altes Wasserhaus is a breast-shot wheel watermill, characterized by its distinctive design featuring a single horizontal beam supporting the wheel.
• The mill's architecture is typical of German watermills from the 19th century, with a rectangular body made of stone and timber framing.

Architecture

The Altes Wasserhaus is a breast-shot wheel watermill, characterized by its distinctive design featuring a single horizontal beam supporting the wheel. The mill's architecture is typical of German watermills from the 19th century, with a rectangular body made of stone and timber framing.

Construction Materials

The mill's construction materials include local limestone, timber framing, and ironwork. The wheel is made of solid oak, while the grinding stones are composed of granite and sandstone.

Original Purpose

The Altes Wasserhaus was originally built for grain milling, with a secondary purpose of oil pressing.

Current Status and Use

The Altes Wasserhaus is currently a museum and educational center, open to the public for guided tours. Although no longer operational as a working mill, the building has been restored to its original state and now serves as a testament to Germany's industrial heritage.

Location and Setting

The Altes Wasserhaus is situated on the Bach & Burren Pfad in Schmelz, near a small stream that provides power for the mill. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills and dense forests, creating a picturesque setting for the historic watermill.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

The Altes Wasserhaus has been designated as a cultural heritage site by the local authorities, recognizing its historical significance and importance to Germany's industrial past. Efforts have been made to restore the mill to its original state, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Visiting Information

Visitors can access the Altes Wasserhaus through guided tours, which are available in multiple languages. The museum is open from April to October, with limited hours during the winter months.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

While no specific notable events or famous millers are recorded for the Altes Wasserhaus, its history reflects the broader industrial development of Germany during the 19th century.

Technical Details

The Altes Wasserhaus features a single breast-shot wheel with a diameter of approximately 3.5 meters. The grinding stones were originally composed of granite and sandstone, with a total surface area of around 20 square meters.