“Es klappert die Mühle am rauschenden Bach…” goes the old German song. Here before us stands Knollmeyers Mühle. This historic watermill is one of the oldest in the Osnabrück region. Its origins may trace back to the time of Charlemagne.
Water rights were first documented here in 1253. The former double mill underwent faithful restoration from 1980 to 1983. Builders used historical materials and followed eco-friendly principles. A key goal was combining the wood-metal gears with modern electrical controls.
The Knollmeyer family resumed operation of the mill in 2008. They extensively renovated it with help from volunteers. The long-dormant water wheel was repaired. The building’s technology was restored and the electrical system renewed. Significant damage to the roof and masonry required a complete renovation of the northwest gable.
The first grinding celebration took place in May 2009. Mill owner Ansgar Knollmeyer and Heinz-Georg Kohlbrecher trained as hobby millers. Since 2019, Hans Petit a retired Dutch professional windmill operator has been working here. He and Ansgar Knollmeyer have fully restored the watermill.
The grain comes from organic cultivation. Since early 2024, the mill has produced whole grain flours. These flours include wheat, rye, and spelt for the Tobi-Bäckerei in Osnabrück. They bake the popular Mühlenbrot or mill bread. You can buy Mühlenbrot at the watermill when the baker’s sign is displayed.
The watermill also produces various flakes. These include wheat, spelt, and a mix for mueslis. It also produces sifted flours like wheat flour, bolted spelt, or wheat semolina. All this is powered by water.
Knollmeyers Mühle is open for mill product sales. Visit Tuesdays from 3 to 5 PM or Wednesdays from 10 AM to 12 PM and 3 to 5 PM. It is also open when the flag is flying.
Knollmeyers Mühle is the only watermill in the Osnabrück region. It commercially produces whole grain flours with historical milling equipment. Visitors can tour the historical building. Guided tours with demonstrations are available for a fee with advance booking. They cost 4.50 euros for adults and 2.50 euros for children.
For more information about tours of Knollmeyers Mühle contact the Association for the Promotion and Preservation of Knollmeyer’s Mill in the Nettetal e.V. Contact P. Kruse the chairman or Ansgar Knollmeyer. You can also contact miller Hans Petit.
Right next to the mill, you can also stop off at the Knollmeyer inn. This mill combines history, sustainable practices and local products. It offers a unique experience in the Osnabrück region.