Review article

Drava Water Mills and the Brook Mills of the Đurđevec Podravina Region from the Mid 18th to the Mid 20th Century

Vladimir Miholek orcid.org/0000-0002-5950-2430 ; Đurđevac, Croatia

Abstract

This paper outlines the exceptional importance of water mills as an economic activity, not only in Podravina, but also in other regions lying on water-rich rivers and streams. The mill itself represents transmission as one of the oldest forms of machinery, made of wood, which generated free energy. The mill was the work of master craftsmen, and owning and running a mill was a privilege of wealthy individuals; military officers and large landowners. The miller was a respected and important craftsman, and a wealthy and desirable bachelor. This paper outlines how even when there is a lack of historical material, significant data on a narrow geographical region can be obtained using rare sources. The majority of mills found their place in the natural environment of Podravina, on the water, by man, and man found his place here thanks to the environment and water - a perfect example of the cohabitation of man and nature.

Keywords

water; Drava; flour milling; water-mills; brook mills; millers; Đurđevec; Đurđevec Podravina region; 18th to 20th century

Hrčak ID:

112961

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/112961

Publication date:

1.12.2013.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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