The Watermill

Heritage in Kasterlee – Watermill of Tielen The first written mention of this watermill dates back to 1526. Old feudal laws determined that flowing water and wind (natural power sources) belonged to the prince. He lent their usage to the lord of the village. The farmers in the region were required to have their grain milled at their lord's mill. The miller, who served as a servant or tenant of the lord, could collect taxes in kind from the farmer's flour sack into the lord's flour sack with each milling. Because the rivers in our Kempen have only a slight fall, the wheel of watermills is usually driven from below. Therefore, these are referred to as undershot mills.
Like the castle of Tielen, the watermill has been inherited for centuries. In 1918, miller Fik Dionys bought the mill with a house, stable, and bakery. In the years following World War II, agriculture took new paths. The profession of miller became unprofitable. In 1981, Louis Dionys, the last miller, passed away. The mill was sold again and lovingly restored.
The millhouse was probably built in 1681. Note the typical basket arch above the door.
The watermill is privately owned. Please respect the residents' privacy and remain behind the wooden fence. To prevent accidents, you should maintain a safe distance from the wheel, the bank, and the sluice works.
Source: Flemish government, Agency R-O Flanders, Immovable Heritage

Walter Van Looy