What is TIMS?

The International Molinological Society (TIMS) is the Society which fosters worldwide interest and understanding of wind, water and animal-driven mills. The term "molinology" was first coined by the Portuguese Joao Miguel dos Santos Simoes at the first International Symposium on Molinology in 1965 to define the study of mills. The Society encourages research, and promotes all aspects of molinology including the restoration of mills. It works closely with national mills societies and organizations and also campaigns at regional and government level to encourage the preservation of important historical mills and mill-sites.

In order to facilitate the exchange and dissemination of knowledge and information on mills, the Society issues two Newsbulletins a year. These contain articles, book reviews, TIMS notices and research findings. Larger studies are published in the series "Bibliotheca Molinologica" which contains12 titles to-date (1998). English is the official language of TIMS though summaries in French and German are often included in publications. The Society's General Meeting is held during each Symposium.

How often does TIMS meet?

Every four years or so an international Conference (Symposium) is held in one of the member's countries. These week-along symposia give members an opportunity to meet fellow-molinologists from around the world and to present papers on research carried out into aspects of mills and milling. Also includes are discussion seminars and field visits to mills of interest. Following the Symposium the papers and discussions are published in the form of Transactions. This sharing of information, research and expertise is an important part of TIMS's work.

Membership of TIMS is open to any person or organization that shares the aims outlined above. Members receive two Newsbulletins a year plus a copy of new volumes of Bibliotheca Molinologica. Membership is on a yearly basis, beginning in January. Members joining later in the year will receive copies of any Newsletter etc. published earlier that year. TIMS is active since 1965 and is the only organization dedicated to mills at a worldwide scale. If you are interested in mills, then this Society is for you. To join TIMS please use the Membership page. For further information please contact the nearest TIMS National Representative or contact the President of our Society.