List of windmills in Illinois facts for kids
Windmills are amazing machines that use the power of wind to do work! For hundreds of years, people have used windmills to grind grain into flour, pump water, or even saw wood. In the American state of Illinois, there have been many traditional windmills throughout history. Some are still standing today, while others are just a memory. This article will tell you about some of these fascinating structures.
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What is a Windmill?
A windmill is a building with large blades, called sails, that turn in the wind. These turning sails power machinery inside the mill. Early windmills were very important because they provided power before electricity was invented. They helped communities by grinding wheat for bread or pumping water for farms.
There are different types of windmills. A smock mill looks like a smock (a type of shirt) because its body gets narrower towards the top. It often has a rotating cap on top that holds the sails, so the sails can be turned to face the wind. A tower mill is usually a tall, round stone or brick tower, also with a rotating cap.
Famous Windmills in Illinois
Fischer Mill: A Historic Landmark
The Fischer Mill, also known as the Old Dutch Mill, is in Elmhurst. It's a type of windmill called a smock mill. It was built way back in 1867. This mill is a well-known landmark, even though it's not open to the public anymore. It reminds people of the past and how important windmills once were.
De Immigrant: A Dutch Gift
In Fulton, you can find a beautiful windmill called De Immigrant. This smock mill is quite new compared to others, as it was built in the year 2000. It was actually built by Dutch millwrights (people who build and repair mills) and shipped from the Netherlands! It's a fully working mill and is open for visitors to explore. It shows the strong connection between Illinois and Dutch heritage.
Fabyan Mill: The Tallest in Illinois
The Fabyan Mill is located in Geneva. This impressive smock mill was built in 1915. It holds the record for being the tallest windmill in all of Illinois! It's also open and working, meaning you can visit and see how it operates. It's a great example of a well-preserved historic windmill.
Prairie Mills: A Golden Treasure
Near Golden, you'll find Prairie Mills. This smock mill was built in 1873. It's another operational windmill, meaning it still works and welcomes visitors. It stands as a symbol of the agricultural history of the area.
Peotone Mill: Awaiting Restoration
The Peotone Mill is in Peotone. This smock mill was built in 1872. While it's currently closed, there are plans to restore it so it can welcome visitors again in the future. It's an important part of the town's history.
Windmills of the Past
Many other windmills once stood across Illinois, playing a vital role in local communities. Some were lost to fires, storms, or were simply taken down as technology changed.
- Heidemann Mill (Addison): This smock mill was built in 1868 but sadly burnt down in 1958.
- Holstein Mill (Bloomingdale): Built in 1872, this smock mill was wrecked by a tornado in 1899 and later demolished.
- Windmills at Chicago Exhibitions: Chicago hosted big events like the World's Columbian Exhibition in 1893 and the Century of Progress Exhibition in 1933. Windmills were sometimes displayed at these events, showing off technology and culture. For example, a smock mill from Blooker was shown in 1893.
- Lahman Mill (Franklin Grove): This smock mill from 1874 was demolished around 1900.
- Swearingen Windmill (Industry): Built between 1927 and 1930, this windmill was never actually used for grinding. It was built as a fun attraction for a restaurant and is still standing today!
- Bartels Mill (Tinley Park): This smock mill was built in 1873 but was demolished in 1911.
These stories show how important windmills were in the development of Illinois and how some have been preserved for us to learn from today.
