The Pūce water mill was operating in Matkule already in the 19th century, and here, apart from grain milling, wool was also processed and a saw mill was operating. Initially, the mechanisms were operated with several water wheels situated between both mill buildings. With the installation of three turbines, approximately 0.5 km upstream from the mill, a new dam (waterfall) was constructed, from which the water of Imula is routed to the mill via a canal. Today, the mill is operated with electricity.
Above the residential building entrance is the old miller’s coat of arms, which, it is believed, originated in the 18th century, when the millers were in the same trade union with artists and craftsmen of Kurzeme. An owl made by the sculptor D. Ezergaile can be seen on top of the gate column.
The family of General Ludwig Bolstein used to lease the mill, and now it hosts a museum with an exposition dedicated to the General. General L. Bolstein was a very notable individual and an extraordinary officer. Under his guidance, from 24 April 1928, until the day he died, the Latvian Border Guard Brigade was turned into a well-organised military structure. Each year on the 21st of June, a memorial day of L. Bolstein is organised.
Pūce Mill is also the place of shooting the movie by Jānis Streičs “Likteņdzirnas”.
Contact information
Pūces Watermill, Matkule parish, Kandava region
Working time
Advance arragements for the visits
Phone
(+371) 63154098, 26354871
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