American Mill Complex

The American Mill Complex, located in the Opole Voivodeship, Krapkowice County, is a remnant of a historic mill (Schreibersdorfer Mühle), a granary, and a residential building with a bakery and a cowshed. Built in the 1830s and 1840s by Count Eduard Georg Maria von Oppersdorff of Głogówek, the complex stands out for its early Florentine Renaissance architecture, making it unique in the region. It is characterized by rectangular forms, rustic walls, and arched windows and doors, giving it a defensive appearance. The mill, which utilized the energy of the Osobłoga River as well as an alternative steam power source, was three stories high and played a significant role in the local economy. The idea to mechanize the bakery and the mill was inspired by modern American solutions, which contributed to the name "American." Despite initial hopes, the bakery did not succeed due to the low quality of its products. The history of the complex is tied to the Oppersdorff family, who owned Pisarzowice from 1646. After its sale in 1930 by Count Wilhelm Hans von Oppersdorff, the American changed hands several times, including Pius Janocha, who introduced agricultural activities there. After World War II, the buildings were used by communist authorities and later fell into ruin. Today, they are in private hands and their condition is deteriorating. An interesting fact is that the local population long referred to the complex as the "American" due to the count's fascination with American mills and bakeries. The American not only reflects the regional architecture of the 19th century but also the cultural and technological influences that came from abroad. Today, it remains a testament to the rich history and industrial heritage of the region.