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Highdown New Mill, Angmering facts for kids

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Angmering Windmill
Angmering mill.jpg
The mill in 2005
Origin
Mill name Highdown New Mill
Ecclesden Mill
Mill location TQ 082 044
Coordinates 50°49′44″N 0°27′54″W / 50.829°N 0.465°W / 50.829; -0.465
Operator(s) Private
Year built 1826
Information
Purpose Corn mill
Type Tower mill
Storeys Four storeys
No. of sails Four sails
Type of sails Patent sails
Winding Fantail
No. of pairs of millstones Two pairs

Highdown New Mill, also known as Ecclesden Mill, is a historic tower mill located in Angmering, Sussex, England. This old windmill has been transformed into a home. It stands as a reminder of how people used wind power long ago.

The Mill's Story: A Look at its History

Highdown New Mill was built in 1826. For many years, it worked hard grinding corn. The mill continued to operate until 1872. This means it was active for almost 50 years.

However, in 1880, a strong wind blew off its cap and sails. After this, the mill stopped working. By the 1930s, the mill was just a ruin covered in ivy. It looked like something from an old fairy tale.

In the early 1970s, the mill found a new purpose. It was carefully changed into a house. Recently, the tower has been covered with wooden shingles. This gives it a fresh, new look while keeping its historic charm.

What is a Tower Mill? Exploring its Design

Highdown New Mill is a four-storey tower mill. This means it has a tall, round brick tower. It used to have four special Patent sails. These sails would catch the wind to power the mill.

The mill also had a "beehive cap" on top. A fantail would automatically turn this cap. This made sure the sails always faced the wind. Inside, the mill used to power two pairs of millstones. These large stones would grind grain into flour.

Today, only the strong brick tower remains. It has been updated with various additions. These changes help it serve as a modern home.

Who Ran the Mill? The Millers

A miller is a person who operates a mill. They were very important in the community. They turned grain into flour for bread and other foods.

  • Timothy Pierce was the miller from 1829 to 1872. He was the last known miller to work at Highdown New Mill.
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