Horncastle Windmill (Horncastle)

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A very tall tower mill, this was built in 1843, when it had five pairs of stones, three French, one grey and one 'blue'. It worked by wind until 1916 when the sails were removed. The cap followed in the 1920's or early 1930's. It was still worked by oil engine in 1940 but eventually fell into disuse.

In 1972 it was purchased by David Law who intended to convert the former stores and engine house into a house and to eventually restore the mill. It had five patent sails and a stage at second floor level with an ornamental handrail. In 1977 the tower was full height with seven storeys but by 1982 the top 14 feet of brickwork had been removed due to its dangerous condition. All that remained of the machinery was the iron lower upright shaft and great spur wheel, together with four pairs of stones, three French and one grey.

To fill the gaps the owner acquired the principal gear from Gainsborough mill in 1976, comprising the winds haft with five-arm cross, upright shaft, spur gear and several other items. Other parts have been taken from Hagworthingham mill. At the time of writing the mill is still in its shortened version but rebuilding of the upper portion is due to begin in 1985 or 6. The restoration, being single-handed, is likely to take many years and the owner deserves every encouragement and help in this ambitious project.