Nutley Windmill

Nutley Windmill is a post mill, dating back to the 17th century, with possible origins around 1680. The main structure was rebuilt in the 18th century, and it underwent alterations around 1880 and post-1970 renovations. It is believed that the mill was moved from another location, possibly Kilndown in Kent, sometime before its appearance on maps in 1840; local tradition suggests it was relocated from Crowborough. The original 17th-century post, square with 5-inch chamfers, remains, although the cross trees and quarter bars were replaced around 1970, and the tailpole is from around 1880. The side of the steps dates from the 19th century, with treads renewed around 1970. The weatherboarding of the superstructure was renewed after 1970. The windshaft is dated 1880, and the sails were replaced around 1970, with two being of an earlier ‘common’ design and two being from around 1880, for demonstration purposes.

Internally, the framing of the superstructure appears to be of 18th-century origin, with a jowled corner post displaying a curved profile and chamfered diagonal braces. Much of the wall frame has been renewed since 1970, replicating the original pattern in oak. The curved rafters, without a ridgepiece, are believed to be 18th-century. The floorboards have been renewed, but the floor joists beneath the structure seem original. The sack hoist is original and potentially dates to the 17th century. One brake wheel is very old and could be 17th-century with 18th-century alterations, while the other is possibly 18th-century. The mill contains a pair of Peak millstones, alongside French burrs. At the time of the survey, Nutley Windmill was the only working open truss post mill in the country, and one of only five surviving examples, the others being at Bourn, Great Gransdon and Great Chishill in Cambridgeshire, and Chillenden Mill in Kent. The mill is faced with weatherboarding, stands on a central post with diagonal struts, features a tailpole, has intact sweeps, and occasionally operates using wind power.