The chattering damsel is a historic mechanical device used in traditional wind and water mills. It consists of a wooden or metal arm that rides against the uneven surface of the rotating upper millstone. The resulting rapid vibration shakes the grain hopper, ensuring a steady, metered flow of kernels down into the grinding eye.
Heard on the job
The grain is feeding too fast, so you need to adjust the shoe and check if the chattering damsel is worn down.
Insider tip
The name comes from the loud, constant clattering noise the mechanism makes while the mill is running.
Also heard as
- damsel