Windmills

Where there is water, there were or are mills. Along the Herk in Wellen, you can still see the Graetermolen and Wellenmolen. Both mills were once active as grain water mills. The bed of the Herk was already redirected for these mills in the 13th century from the lowest part of the valley to a slightly higher location. This redirection, along with the later straightening, widening, and deepening of the Herk, has had a significant impact on the water management of the area. Not to mention the water quality. Fortunately, it is gradually improving due to better water purification and connections to the sewage system. And that is good for the nature in both the Broekbeemd and the Grote Beemd. Until 70 years ago, there was another mill near the Wellenmolen, a beating mill. This processed linseed and rapeseed into oil, which was used for lighting, among other things. The name "slag" comes from the sound made during the pressing.

Limburgs Landschap vzw