Timeline

Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Billion windmill is a mill-tour building located at the place called Billion, in the town of Ambon, in the Morbihan department of Brittany. Its construction dates back to 1746, as evidenced by a date engraved on a frame. This mill, characteristic of traditional milling techniques, was thoroughly modernized in 1902, with the addition of a modular Berton wing system and a ball regulator, improving its efficiency and adaptation to climatic conditions.

Ranked a historic monument by decree of 28 December 1979, the Billion Mill illustrates the technological evolution of windmills between the 18th and 20th centuries. Its covered block structure was raised during the work of 1902, while its internal mechanisms, dedicated to milling, reflect the innovations of the industrial era. The cessation of its activity during the 20th century marks the end of an era for Breton mills, now preserved as a heritage.

Architecturally, the mill is distinguished by its Berton wing system, designed to optimize wind capture. These wings, combined with the ball regulator, allowed for more stable operation and more regular flour production. Today, the site reflects both the 18th century craftsmanship and the technical adaptations of the early 20th century, offering a rare example of a hybrid mill between tradition and modernity.

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