Wimbotsham
towermill |
Wimbotsham towermill stood on the north side of Miller's Lane. The small red brick mill had 3 storeys with an ogee cap. A tailpole from the cap ended with a 2 ft. diameter 4 ins. wide cast iron wheel set to run on a track around the mill. The sails that drove 2 pairs of stones, came down to within reach of a person on the ground. |
To Millers Wanted, a MAN to take charge of a Grist Mill and make himself generally useful. One into years preferred. Apply at Mr. R. B. Towler's, Wimbotsham, near Downham Market. Lynn Advertiser - 19th August 1865 |
O.S. Map 1884 Courtesy of NLS map images |
When the Slubberdike Plantation was planted to the north of the mill, it robbed the mill of much of its wind, eventually rendering it unprofitable as a business. Ironically it was a gale on Sunday 16th March 1913 between midday and 1.00pm that ended the mill's life. The mill was tailwinded and as a result, the cap and sails were blown off. |
After the mill was put out of action it was suggested that it should be converted to residential use. However, the prospective tenant's wife indignantly rejected the idea. The tenant was the groom to the local vicar. The mill was subsequently sold to a demolition contractor who dismantled it.soon after. |
On 25th October 1980, Lewis R. Turner of Gayton wrote to Harry Apling to provide information from P. J, Boughen a retired builder from Wimbotsham. |
White's 1854: Robert Towler, baker & shopkeeper |
O.S. map 1824: Mill 1875: Robert Towler, miller, baker & grocer |
If you have any memories, anecdotes or photos please let us know and we may be able to use them to update the site. By all means telephone 07836 675369 or
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Nat Grid Ref TF62260538 |
Copyright © Jonathan Neville 2010 |