The Société Jersiaise is pleased to announce the forthcoming publication of A History of Mills and Milling in Jersey, a major new work by respected local historian and Société member Chris Aubin.
Drawing on extensive original research, the book traces the development of milling in Jersey from the medieval period to the twentieth century, documenting the Island’s remarkable network of watermills, windmills, steam mills and other industrial sites that sustained generations of Islanders.
Although Jersey is often viewed primarily as an agricultural community, milling was central to everyday life. Grain had to be processed regularly to produce flour for bread, while mills also supported a wide range of activities, including brewing, cloth fulling, paper production, tanning, vinegar manufacture and even the production of gunpowder. The book explores how these industries helped shape Jersey’s economy and communities over many centuries.
The publication provides the first comprehensive account of all known Jersey mills, examining their ownership, operation and significance within the Island’s historic feudal system, under which many tenants were required to use their seigneurial mill. Chris Aubin identifies at least 45 watermills and around 21 windmills that once operated across Jersey, alongside horse-powered, steam-powered and later electric mills.
Today, only Le Moulin de Quétivel in St Peter remains in working order, making the preservation of this aspect of Jersey’s heritage more important than ever. A History of Mills and Milling in Jersey records the people, places and industries that powered Island life for centuries, ensuring their stories are preserved for future generations.
Rebecca Bailhache, CEO, Société Jersiaise
“Chris Aubin has produced an extraordinarily detailed and engaging account of an often overlooked aspect of Jersey’s history. Mills were at the heart of everyday life for centuries, and this publication helps preserve an important part of our Island’s heritage for future generations. We are delighted to bring this significant work to the public through the Société Jersiaise.”
Chris Aubin, Author and Historian
“The story of Jersey’s mills is about much more than buildings and machinery. It is about the people who grew the grain, operated the mills, transported goods and depended on them for their daily bread. I hope this book will encourage Islanders to look afresh at an important part of our shared history.”
Copies of A History of Mills and Milling in Jersey will be available shortly through the Société Jersiaise.
To be added to the advance mailing list or to receive further information, please contact Rebecca Bailhache at ceo@societe.je.
Société Jersiaise photo credits below:
- SJPA12074 – Mont Mado Windmill
- SJPA32928 – Le Moulin de Malassis
- SJPA33102 – Le Moulin de la Ville – remains of steam engine
- SJPA1542 – Le Moulin de Gigoulande
