A Windmill with its sails turning is a sight to behold, and 150 years ago was a familiar part of our countryside and towns, but rare today. This talk we will explore the origin, development, demise and restoration of surviving West Country Windmills. The talk will examine the unique features of surviving Tower Mills and how they differ from those elsewhere in the country.
Course aim
To provide an introduction to the origins and development of the West Country Windmill, including the different types that evolved.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for beginners
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Have skills to interpret the remains of abandoned windmills on the ground, making your visit more enjoyable and informative.
- Identify with the benefits windmills have to the local community, both historically and today as a tourist attraction.
What else do I need to know?
A number of Handouts will be provided in Canvas, including a list of West Country Windmills that can be seen today (many of which are in a ruinous condition), but three are restored and open to the public. Recommended general reading: Windmills by Martin Watts. Shire Publications. 2006.
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