Zagroda Młyńska in Bogdaniec, located in the charming surroundings of the Bogdaniec forests, is a true historical and architectural gem. The wealth of restored and conserved historical exhibits and the modern arrangement of exhibitions reflecting the atmosphere of the 19th century mill, living quarters and surroundings now make this place one of the key tourist attractions in the region. In September 2023, a three-and-a-half-year major renovation of the complex of buildings, which had been in a catastrophic state of disrepair for many years, was completed. This was made possible by raising funds from the European Regional Development Fund and other aid programmes.
Homestead Mill in Bogdaniec – history
The Mill Homestead consists of three historic buildings: a mill called the “upper” mill from 1826, an outbuilding and a coach house. The mill, which is a unique building due to its preserved original furnishings, had remained closed since 2008. The decision to take it out of use was taken by the building inspector due to the disastrous technical condition of the building. The breakthrough came with the possibility of benefiting from national and foreign aid programmes. A key condition, however, was to have complete conservation and construction documentation.
The homestead before renovation. Photo Kapitel, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Efforts to raise funds for renovation
The Jan Dekert Lubuskie Museum in Gorzów Wielkopolski, of which the Homestead is a branch, began seeking funding as early as 2007. After years of waiting, it succeeded in obtaining funds. The works included a comprehensive renovation of the entire Zagroda Młyńska complex and its surroundings. The renovation, which took three and a half years, was completed in September 2023.
Renovation work on the historic homestead
The renovation work was divided into several stages and carried out by specialist companies. They included the strengthening of the foundations and the reconstruction of the half-timbered structure. The renovation of the roof, including the replacement of shingles and the wooden structure, was another element of the renovation. Special attention was given to the conservation of wooden elements such as window and door frames and the historic floors, which needed to be oiled and the levels adapted for people with mobility problems. In addition, new electrical and sanitary installations were also laid. One of the highlights of the restoration was the reconstruction of the historic mill equipment, such as the wooden drive wheel and the mill channel.
Life in an old mill – exhibition
A special highlight in the renovated buildings is the exhibition “From grain to loaf”, which shows the evolution of milling techniques and includes unique drive mechanisms, original querns and millstones. In addition to the mill, thematic exhibitions have been arranged in the former farm buildings, such as “Rural crafts” and “Livestock and agriculture”, showing the craft and agricultural traditions of the region. A turn-of-the-century miller’s dwelling has also been arranged in the premises, where visitors can see a reconstructed kitchen, guest room and bedroom. The Mill Homestead also features open-air exhibitions showcasing restored agricultural machinery, carts and a bread oven used for bread-making demonstrations.
The historic mill before and after renovation. Photo: Jan Dekert Lubuski Museum, by K. Chorążyczewska
Bogdaniec Mill Farm as a place of education
Thanks to modern solutions, such as the introduction of educational rooms, workshops and study warehouses, the Bogdaniec Mill Farmstead has become a place of live education, workshops and attractions for visitors of all ages. The effects of the work carried out not only restored the facilities to their former glory, but also gave them a new educational and cultural function, making the Mill Farmstead one of the key tourist attractions in the Lubuskie region.
Source: modernizacjaroku.org.pl, dziedzictwowsipolskiej.pl
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The mill at the beginning of the 20th century and today. Photo: Jan Dekert Lubuskie Museum, by K. Chorążyczewska
The main building past and present. Photo: Muzeum Lubuskie im. Jana Dekerta and modernizacjaaroku.org.pl
The monument before and after the renovation. Photo: Kapitel, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons and the Jan Dekert Lubuski Museum, by Małgorzata Sawoch