The Schultheißer Mill
Below the Peterches Mill, our climbing skills are once again put to the test, as the path steeply ascends the mountain. But don't worry, it's not far; soon we will have reached the height, and then it goes downhill again. After passing a bend in the path, we see the buildings of the Schultheißer Mill before us. It was built in the 18th century. In 1908, the mill house fell victim to a fire, and only the vaulted cellar remained intact. There was also a bakehouse at the mill, where bread was baked for the milling customers.
On a rock above the mill, we notice a small chapel that piques our interest. In front of the entrance door to the place of worship stands a mighty wooden cross, with the year 1774 carved into it. The symbols also embedded tell of the former life of farmers and millers and depict the instruments of Christ's suffering.
Inside the chapel, we are surprised by a pleasing Madonna with the Christ Child under a hedge of flowers. The Virgin Mary has a special significance, as tradition reports. Before World War II, the miller couple was not blessed with the hoped-for offspring. So, the miller’s wife made a pilgrimage to Lourdes and acquired the Madonna nearby, which she placed in the small chapel upon her return. After fervent and heartfelt praying, the miller’s wish for children was fulfilled.
Excerpt from the book "From Mill to Mill" - a hike through the Baybach Valley, available for 9.00 euros at the Tourist Information Emmelshausen
