Historical Importance of Water Mills
Water mills had an important place in the past, especially in rural areas. These mills, which grinded grain using traditional methods, were one of the indispensable elements of village life. However, today, the number of water mills is rapidly decreasing due to the advancement of technology and changes in agricultural production.
Current Status of Milling
A water mill dating back to 1930, located in the Erenler District of Trabzon’s Arakli district, is currently operated by Halil İbrahim Alemdar. Alemdar states that their business has decreased significantly with the decrease in corn planting. The increase in the number of villagers who no longer planted corn caused the mill works to come to the point of closure.
The Fate of Water Mills in the Future
Pointing out that milling is now a thing of the past, Halil İbrahim Alemdar states that there is no new generation interested in continuing the profession. Stating that his own children do not intend to continue this profession, Alemdar emphasizes that the water mills are at risk of disappearing completely over time.
Halil İbrahim Alemdar:“The number of mills is not decreasing only here, but also throughout Turkey. There are only a handful of mills left in Trabzon. There is no one who will continue this profession after us. I have children, but they are not inclined to this profession. Therefore, the future of water mills is not very bright.
