A millrind or simply rind is an iron support, usually four-armed or cross-shaped, for the turning ("runner") stone in a pair of millstones. It is sometimes spelled millrynd or rynd.
The rind is affixed to the top of the main shaft or spindle and supports the entire weight of the runner stone[citation needed], which can be as much as several tons. The rind is necessary because the grain is fed through the runner stone's central hole, so the spindle cannot be inserted through it like a cartwheel on an axle.
The face of a runner stone usually has a carved depression, called the "Spanish cross", to accommodate the millrind.
In heraldry
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It has been suggested that this article be split into articles entitled rind (heraldry), accessible from a disambiguation page. (Discuss) |
A millrind, also called fer de moline, is a relatively common heraldic charge. It can be found, for example, in the arms of Sir William Saunsum, described as "Or, a Fer de Moline Sable" (a gold shield with a millrind in black). The millrind of heraldry is only slightly stylized in form as shown at right.
The cross moline, another heraldic charge, is so named because of its alleged resemblance to some millrinds.
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