Chronological approach to the operation of Payogasta’s hydraulic mill (Cachi, Salta) during the XIX and XX centuries

Abstract

The ancient hydraulic flour mill of Payogasta (Salta, Argentina), settled on the right bank of the Calchaquí river is a set of adobe structures (six rooms have been examined so far), most of which still retain the ceilings. The grinding machinery is located in one of the best-preserved rooms. In this paper, we intend to address the chronology of the mill, particularly the chronology of its operation, from a transdisciplinary approach that puts into dialogue different records of information: oral accounts, archaeological evidence and historical documents. The first conclusion we can make is that the grinding structure has been functioning uninterruptedly since the mid-19th century to the late 20th century.