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Polegate Windmill

Park Croft

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Polegate Windmill (Wealden)
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Polegate Windmill

The Polegate Windmill is a historic windmill located in Park Croft, Polegate, East Sussex, England.

  • History
  • The mill's history dates back to the 19th century, when it was constructed as a post mill to serve the local community.
  • The Polegate Windmill is a classic example of a post mill, with a single tower supporting a cap and four sails.

Architecture and Construction

The Polegate Windmill is a classic example of a post mill, with a single tower supporting a cap and four sails. The mill's construction materials are traditional windmill components, including oak beams and ironwork. The building's design is typical of 19th-century English windmills, with a distinctive curved roofline and a central chimney.

  • Original Purpose
  • The Polegate Windmill was originally built to grind grain into flour for the local community.
  • The mill's primary function was to provide a reliable source of flour for baking and other domestic purposes.

Current Status and Use

Today, the Polegate Windmill is operated as a museum, open to the public for guided tours and educational programs. The mill has been carefully restored to its original condition, with many of its historic features preserved intact.

  • Location and Setting
  • The Polegate Windmill is situated in the picturesque village of Polegate, surrounded by rolling hills and farmland.
  • The mill's location near a small stream provides a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy while exploring the site.
  • Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts
  • The Polegate Windmill has been designated as a Grade II listed building by English Heritage, recognizing its historical significance and architectural importance.
  • Ongoing preservation efforts have ensured the mill remains in good condition, with regular maintenance and repairs carried out to maintain its integrity.

Visiting Information

The Polegate Windmill is open to the public for guided tours, which can be booked in advance through the local tourist information center. Visitors are encouraged to explore the mill's interior, including the cap and sails, as well as the surrounding grounds.

  • Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers
  • Unfortunately, no notable historical events or famous millers have been recorded for the Polegate Windmill.

Technical Details

The Polegate Windmill features four wooden sails, each measuring 10 feet (3.05 meters) in diameter. The grinding stones are made of granite and date back to the original construction of the mill.

Details

NamePolegate Windmill
CityWealden
CountryUnited Kingdom
Coordinates50.8146, 0.2436599
Current usemuseum
Accessibletrue
Guided tourstrue