Kaspersmühle

The Kaspersmühle, located in Altlay, 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 oil pressing.
• The primary purpose of the Kaspersmühle was for grain milling and oil pressing.
• The mill's overshot wheel was powered by water from the nearby river, which provided a reliable source of energy for grinding grains into flour and pressing oil from seeds.

Architecture

The Kaspersmühle features an overshot wheel, which is characteristic of traditional German watermills. The mill's architecture is typical of rural Germanic buildings from the mid-19th century, with a combination of stone and timber construction.

The exterior walls are made of local sandstone, while the roof is covered in slate.

Original Purpose

• The primary purpose of the Kaspersmühle was for grain milling and oil pressing.
• The mill's overshot wheel was powered by water from the nearby river, which provided a reliable source of energy for grinding grains into flour and pressing oil from seeds.

Current Status and Use

The Kaspersmühle is currently a working museum, open to the public for guided tours and demonstrations of traditional milling techniques.

The mill has been restored to its original condition, with many of its original features still intact.

Location and Setting

The Kaspersmühle is situated in the picturesque town of Altlay, surrounded by rolling hills and farmland.

The nearby river provides a constant source of water power for the mill's overshot wheel.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

• The Kaspersmühle has been designated as a regional cultural heritage site by the German government, recognizing its importance in preserving traditional milling techniques and rural architecture.
• Efforts have been made to restore the mill to its original condition, including the installation of new grinding stones and machinery.

Visiting Information

Visitors can access the Kaspersmühle by appointment only, with guided tours available during peak season.

The mill's museum is open from April to October, with limited hours on weekdays and weekends.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

• The Kaspersmühle has played a significant role in local history, particularly during World War II when it was used as a refuge for displaced persons.
• While no famous miller is specifically associated with the mill, its restoration efforts have been led by local historians and preservationists.

Technical Details

• Number of grinding stones: 4
• Overshot wheel diameter: 3.5 meters
• Water source: River Altlay