1. Grain Processing:
- Millers operated mills, which were powered by water or wind, to grind grains into flour.
- They received grains from farmers or landowners and processed them into various types of flour, depending on the grain and the desired texture.
- Common grains milled included wheat, rye, barley, and oats.
2. Flour Production:
- Millers used grindstones to crush the grains and produce coarse or fine flour.
- The fineness of the flour depended on the type of bread or food being prepared.
- Different grades of flour were produced for different purposes, such as baking bread, making porridge, or producing pastries.
3. Watermills and Windmills:
- Millers operated watermills, which harnessed the power of flowing water to turn the millstones.
- In areas with limited water resources, they also used windmills, which relied on wind energy to rotate the stones.
- Millers had to maintain and repair these mills to ensure efficient grain processing.
4. Mill Services:
- Millers provided milling services to local communities and charged a fee for their work.
- Farmers and bakers brought their grains to the mill and paid a portion of the flour produced as payment for the milling service.
- Millers often had a designated area within the village or town where they operated their mills.
5. Regulation and Standards:
- Millers were subject to regulations and standards set by local authorities or feudal lords.
- These regulations ensured fair practices, controlled the quality of flour produced, and prevented excessive fees from being charged by millers.
6. Social Importance:
- Millers held a significant position within medieval society as they played a vital role in providing essential food products.
- They were often respected members of the community and had close ties with farmers, bakers, and other tradespeople.
7. Technological Innovations:
- Over time, millers introduced various innovations to improve the efficiency and quality of milling.
- They experimented with different millstone designs, waterwheel configurations, and windmills to enhance the grinding process.
In summary, millers in medieval times played a crucial role in grain processing, flour production, and providing essential food products to the population. Their work was vital for sustaining communities, supporting agriculture, and fostering economic activities in medieval Europe.