Approach to the Grist Milling Activity in Northern Calchaqui Valley (Salta) during the 19th and 20th Centuries

Abstract

The research presented is located in the center-west of the province of Salta, in Argentina's North Western region. We present a first revision of the grinding process in the 19^th and 20^th Centuries, focusing on the distribution and characteristics of gristmills. This information supplemented by oral accounts, obtained from informal interviews to the inhabitants of the towns of Cachi, Payogasta and the Department of Molinos. The first result show the importance of product grinding on a supra domestic scale for the 19^th Century and the localizations of mills near roads allowing for the integration of the region, both at a national and international level.