Moulin de Riz

The Moulin de Riz, located on Route Communale 107A in the Commune de Dessalines, Haiti, has a rich history dating back to its construction.

History

• The exact year of its establishment is not certain, but it is believed to have been built during the colonial era.
• As a windmill, the Moulin de Riz was designed to harness the power of the wind to grind grain into flour.

Its original purpose was to serve the local community by providing a reliable source of food and other essential products.

Architecture

• The Moulin de Riz is an example of a traditional Haitian windmill, with a characteristic tower design.
• The mill's structure is made from locally sourced materials, including wood and stone.
• The tower stands approximately 20 meters tall, with a single sail that rotates to capture the wind energy.

The grinding stones, which are typically found in watermills, are absent in this case due to its windmill design.

Instead, the Moulin de Riz relies on manual labor to grind the grain into flour.

Location

The Moulin de Riz is situated in a rural area of the Commune de Dessalines, surrounded by lush greenery and farmland.

The nearby water source, which was likely used for irrigation purposes during its operational years, has since dried up due to environmental changes.

Current Status and Use

Today, the Moulin de Riz stands as a testament to Haiti's rich cultural heritage.

While it is no longer in use as a functional windmill, it has been preserved and restored by local authorities.

The site serves as an important educational resource for visitors, providing insight into traditional Haitian architecture and engineering.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

• The Moulin de Riz has been recognized as a national cultural monument in Haiti, with efforts made to preserve its historical significance.
• Local organizations have worked tirelessly to restore the mill's structure and maintain its integrity for future generations.

Visiting Information

For those interested in visiting the Moulin de Riz, it is open to the public during designated hours.

Visitors can explore the site, learn about its history, and experience the unique architecture of this traditional Haitian windmill.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

Unfortunately, there is no recorded information on notable historical events or famous millers associated with the Moulin de Riz.

Technical Details

• The Moulin de Riz features a single sail, which rotates to capture wind energy.
• The exact number of grinding stones used in its original design is unknown, as they were absent due to its windmill configuration.