Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Ingratitude Mill, also known as Ondankmeulen in Flemish, is a wood windmill on pivot, built in 1802 in La Motte-au-Bois, near Hazebrouck. This type of mill, typical of the North, was designed to grind grain with a pair of grinding wheels operated by inclined wings optimizing the wind intake. Its name, attested since the 16th century, would come from a legend linked to a conflict between an owner and a carpenter, although the details remain uncertain.

In 1884, the mill was dismantled and transported to Boeschepe by its new owner, Benoît Houvenaghel, via an exceptional convoy of six carts crossing Bailleul on three occasions. During the First World War, he served as an observation post for British artillery and was damaged by bombardments and mines. His rescue in April 1918 coincided with the retreat of German troops, thus preserving the structure.

After the war, the mill ceased milling in 1958, under the management of the last miller, after the death of its owner. Rached by the commune in 1964, it was gradually restored from 1966 onwards, returning to operation in the 1970s. Ranked a historic monument in 1977, it now symbolizes the industrial and rural heritage of Hauts-de-France. In 2023, he was the setting for the children's film La Quête de la Musique perdu, the fifth episode of the Fabulous Adventures by Jean and Henri.

External links