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Wavertree Windmill facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Wavertree 1905
The Wavertree windmill in 1905, looking strong!

The Wavertree windmill was a very old mill in Liverpool, England. People first wrote about it in 1452. It was special because it was one of only four "King's Mills" in the area. This mill stood behind where 35 and 37 Beverly Road are today.

For almost 200 years, the King owned this windmill. Then, in 1639, King Charles I gave it to Lord Strange. Lord Strange was the son of Lord Derby. Over time, the mill changed owners several times. By the 1700s, it belonged to Bamber Gascoyne. Later, it went to the Marquess of Salisbury. Finally, Colonel James Bourne rented it. A big storm damaged the mill in 1898. It was completely taken down in 1916.

The Wavertree Windmill: A Look Back

The Wavertree windmill was an important part of Liverpool's history. It helped grind grain for many years. Windmills like this one used the power of the wind. They turned large stones to crush wheat into flour. This flour was then used to make bread and other foods.

What Was a King's Mill?

A "King's Mill" was a special type of mill. It meant the mill was owned by the King or Queen. People living nearby had to use this specific mill to grind their grain. They usually paid a fee to the King for this service. This system helped the King earn money. The Wavertree windmill was one of only a few such mills in Liverpool.

A Mill's Journey Through Time

The Wavertree windmill saw many changes over its long life.

  • 1452: This is the first time the mill is mentioned in records.
  • For almost 200 years: The mill was owned by the King of England.
  • 1639: King Charles I gave the mill to Lord Strange. This was a big change in ownership.
  • 1700s: The mill's ownership moved to Bamber Gascoyne. He was a tenant of Childwall Hall.
  • Later owners: The mill then passed to the Marquess of Salisbury. After that, Colonel James Bourne leased it.

The End of the Wavertree Windmill

The mill's story came to an end in the early 1900s.

  • 1898: A very strong storm hit the area. The storm badly damaged the windmill. It was no longer safe or useful.
  • 1916: The damaged mill was finally taken down. It was completely demolished. This marked the end of the Wavertree windmill's long history.
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