Pottenbakkersdraaispil

The Pottenbakkersdraaispil, also known as the *Pottenbakkersspil* or *Pottenbakkerswiel*, is a traditional Dutch hand-driven grain mill used primarily in the southern provinces of the Netherlands, particularly in Limburg. The name derives from the Dutch words *pottenbakkers*, meaning "potters," as these mills were historically operated by potters who needed to grind clay for their craft.

This type of mill features a vertical wheel, typically made of wood, that is turned manually by a person standing on a platform or treadle. The wheel drives a horizontal axle connected to grinding stones, allowing the user to mill grain into flour or clay into powder. The design is simple yet effective, making it suitable for small-scale, on-site processing.

Pottenbakkersdraaispils were commonly found in rural areas before the widespread adoption of motorized mills in the 20th century. They were often powered by human labor, though some variations may have used animal-driven mechanisms. The mills were portable to some extent, allowing potters and farmers to move them between locations as needed.

Today, the Pottenbakkersdraaispil is largely obsolete in practical use but remains a cultural artifact, reflecting the self-sufficiency and craftsmanship of traditional Dutch communities. Some historical societies and museums preserve these mills as examples of old-world technology, demonstrating their role in daily life before industrialization. The design also serves as an educational tool to illustrate the mechanics of early milling techniques.