The history of Milly-sur-Thérain is linked to several mills: their timelines range from the 15th century to the second half of the 20th century and include grain mills as well as later uses. There is also a cycling route through the town and a picnic area in the peaceful natural surroundings of the Étangs de Milly. During your stay, you can choose between exploring the history of milling, cycling and taking a break by the ponds.
Mills: from grain milling to conversion
The Moulin de Campdeville was one of four grain mills belonging to the Seigneurie of Troissereux. Its main construction phase dates to the last quarter of the 17th century; it was built in 1689. Milling ended in 1894, after which the building was converted into a residence. At the Moulin de Milly, the timeline runs from an early grain mill to industrial-scale processing: a mill at this site is documented as far back as the 18th century and is shown on the 1784 administrative plan of the commune of Milly. The present site appears to date from the complete conversion of a grain mill into an industrial-scale mill around 1855. Milling ended in 1958; around 1968, the site was converted into a fish farm. The different later uses can also be compared: in Campdeville, the building became a residence, while in Milly it was followed by fish farming.
Further traces of local history
The history of industrial activity in the hamlet of Moulin des Forges dates back to the 15th century. At the Moulin des Forges, a nearly 300-metre-long millrace from the Thérain was used. A fulling mill was also established nearby between 1768 and 1784. These two details refer to different places in the same historical setting: the millrace was used at the Moulin des Forges, while the fulling mill was located nearby.
The Moulin d’Argent was originally called the Moulin de Moismont. During the revolutionary period, the miller Pierre Lemaire built it without permission. It was completely destroyed following a fire in 1983; only part of the wall facing the river and the vertical waterwheel remain. Its name, construction period and destruction tell a different story from the conversion of the mills in Campdeville and Milly.
Cycling route and picnic area
The “La véloroute de la Mémoire par les vallées de l'Herperie et du Thérain” route passes through Milly-sur-Thérain. If you are planning a cycling stage, check the route conditions before setting off. The route offers a focus distinct from the history of milling and may shape your plans for your stay.
The Aire de pique-nique de Milly-sur-Thérain offers a different experience: it is a picnic area in the natural, peaceful surroundings of the Étangs de Milly. A break by the ponds is another option alongside exploring the history and cycling. Opening and access information may change; check before your visit.
Planning your stay and accommodation
The history of milling offers several distinct timelines; the route provides a specific cycling connection through Milly-sur-Thérain, while the picnic area offers a quieter experience by the Étangs de Milly. When choosing accommodation, take its specific details into account.
Discover more destinations: Jonquières, Muidorge, Cauvigny, Coye-La-Forêt, Martincourt, Saint-Leu-D'esserent, Mortemer, Chevincourt
For the broader travel overview: Oise.
