Known also as the White Mill or the Mill of Bricks. The Moulin de Vertain stands before us. It is a unique windmill with a fascinating story. Built in the late 15th century. This mill has seen centuries of history unfold around it.
The Moulin de Vertain might look like a tower mill from the outside. It is actually more like a post mill in how it works inside. This makes it a truly special piece of engineering.
First mentioned in 1328. The Moulin de Vertain was then known as the “Moulin de Viertain”. It was part of Anchin Abbey’s records. War took its toll in 1616. The mill was burned. It took time to rebuild and get it working again. By 1691, the tower looked much like it does today.
Jean-Baptiste Houzé was the last miller. He ceased grinding grain in 1908. After this the Moulin de Vertain was left to fall apart. World War I caused more damage. Locals took wood from the structure. The town bought the badly damaged mill in 1973.
Restoration work began in 1975. It lasted until 1985. The Moulin de Vertain got its sails back. They span 24 meters. A small wheel carried an inscription. It read: Laigle, mill carpenter from Armentières, 1840.
In 1978, the Moulin de Vertain earned historical monument status. Its unique design made it the only one of its kind in France. The tower stands 10.20 meters tall. It has a diameter of 7.60 meters. Walls are 1.25 meters thick at the base. Inside are two pairs of millstones. The large wheel measures 2.90 meters across.
The Moulin de Vertain stands along a cobbled road. This road is famous for the Paris-Roubaix cycling race. Each year, the mill serves as a landmark for the riders. Not far away is “the biggest cobblestone in the world”. This artwork comes from Renaud Masquelier. He is an artist and painter-sculptor.
Interestingly, the Moulin de Vertain is the last of its kind in France. Both wooden floors pivot with the central post. This includes the mechanism and roof. It rotates along a track. It is a central pivot tower mill.
Other millers include Jean de Lespaignol in 1669. Also Jean Baptiste Wartelle in 1777. And Jean Baptiste Castelain in 1824.
The restored Moulin de Vertain officially opened on June 15, 1985. It remains a proud symbol of Templeuve-en-Pévèle’s history. It showcases unique engineering. Take a moment to appreciate this unique structure. It connects us to centuries past.