Otterton Mill facts for kids
Otterton Water Mill is a very old and interesting mill located in the village of Otterton, near Budleigh Salterton in Devon, England. It sits right beside the beautiful River Otter. Today, it's not just a mill; it's also a popular place with a bakery, a shop, a restaurant, and an art gallery.
A Journey Through Time
Otterton Water Mill has a long and fascinating history. A watermill was first written about in this exact spot way back in 1086! This was recorded in the famous Domesday Book, which was a huge survey of England ordered by William the Conqueror. Back then, the mill had three pairs of millstones to grind grain.
Over the centuries, the mill changed owners many times. For example, King Henry V once gave the mill and its land to a group of nuns from Syon Abbey. Later, during a time called the Dissolution of the Monasteries (when the King took control of many religious places), the mill was sold to the Duke family. They owned it for about 200 years! After that, it was sold to the Rolle family in 1785. Eventually, through marriage, the mill became part of the Clinton family's large estate, and they still own it today.
Bringing the Mill Back to Life
The mill stopped grinding grain in 1959. After that, the buildings were used just for storing grain. But in 1977, a person named Desna Greenhow worked hard to restore the watermill. Thanks to her efforts, the mill started working again and has been running ever since!
Today, Otterton Water Mill is a lively place. Besides the working mill, you can find a delicious bakery, a charming shop, a cozy restaurant, and a gallery that shows off local art and crafts.
Discovering Local History
The mill also hosts a special event every year. They invite a team called the "Portable Antiquities team." These experts help people examine old objects they have found in the local area. It's a great way to learn more about the history hidden right under our feet!
See also
- List of oldest companies
