15044
Author
Hefner, Robert J.
Title Of Journal Book
Windmills of Long Island
Collation
111 p. : ill. ; 26 cm.
Reference Bibliography
refs.
Publisher
Society for the Preservation of Long Island Antiquities
Publisher City
Setauket
ISBN
0-393-30141-9 (pbk);0-393-01780-X
Language Of Text
English
Literature Type
Monograph
Literature Level
Monographic
Abstract
This research provides material culture and architectural heritage documentation. Describes 11 windmills that have survived on Long Island, of which only one is in good condition although nine of them still have much of their machinery. From 1795 to 1820, the smock mill was the most common; New England building traditions were carried to Long Island initially, but after 1800, the local builders used New York structures as models. The mechanisms of the windmill are described and illustrated, but most technical information throughout the book is confined to the captions. Accounts and records of the local millwrights or carpenters document the building of the windmills, major structural changes, i.e., addition of an internal capstan winding mechanism, and repairs. By the end of the 19th century there was interest in adaptive reuse of these structures since milling was no longer profitable. Initially, local wealthy estate owners wanted these structures as decorative pieces on their properties, and four of them have been preserved through public acquisition. Problems inherent in the building design which have led to deterioration are discussed: insect, wind, and water damage which have resulted in rot. Vandalism has also been a problem. Specific damage and its causes are cited. The restoration of one of these windmills, the Pantigo Windmill, is photographically documented. The value of this project is that it sheds new light on the process of technological transfer.
Keywords
culture;machinery;England;construction;England (York);structures; models; records;interior;end;adaptive reuse;milling;acquisition;design; deterioration; wind;water;damage;rot;restoration;light
pub_id
15044