Nutley Windmill: A Journey from Decline to Revival

The Windmill Stands Still (1908-1968):

Nutley Windmills commercial operations drew to a close in 1908. The once-proud structure soon found itself propped precariously, with wooden supports hindering its ability to rotate on its post for over six decades. Fixed in a southwesterly direction, the mill endured a period of vulnerability. Thankfully, Lord and Lady Castle Stewart, the owners at the time, took steps to preserve the mill from the elements, ensuring it remained relatively intact despite its disuse.

A Community Rallies (1968-1975):

The year 1968 marked a turning point. The Uckfield & District Preservation Society (UDPS) emerged, driven by a shared passion for restoring the mill to its former glory. Recognising the urgency, additional supports were implemented to prevent a complete collapse. With unwavering dedication, volunteers embarked on the restoration process in 1969.

From Ruins to Flour (1972-1987):

The years that followed witnessed a remarkable transformation. Slowly but surely, Nutley Windmill clawed its way back from the brink. A momentous occasion arrived in 1972 when the mill, once again operational, produced a small batch of flour. Further progress unfolded in 1973 with the installation of two shuttered sails. The tireless efforts of the UDPS were acknowledged in 1975 during the European Architectural Heritage Year. The Society received a well-deserved certificate for their exemplary restoration work.

Challenges and Triumphs (1984-1999):

The mill's resilience was tested again in 1984 during the filming of "Chocky's Children" by Thames Television. One of the stocks, a crucial structural component, suffered a breakage. Fortunately, Thames Television stepped up, generously providing the resources for a swift replacement within a week. Filming continued without significant delays.

The year 1987 saw the common sails, originally installed in 1957, being replaced. A new mill book, a detailed record of the mill's workings, was also printed. However, later that year, a hurricane struck, causing substantial damage estimated at £6,000.

The unwavering spirit of the UDPS prevailed. In 1994, a grant from British Telecom enabled significant advancements. New rear steps and a tail pole were constructed, along with electrical wiring and extensive improvements to the adjacent barn. The culmination of these efforts arrived in May 1995, marked by the official transfer of ownership for the mill, barn, and surrounding field to the UDPS by the family of the late Countess Castle Stewart.

The story continues. A dedicated shelter was built in the field in 1997, housing a small museum that showcases artifacts replaced during the restoration. Visitors can now explore remnants of the past, including old steps, the tail pole, and sweeps. Further restoration efforts addressed minor decay discovered in 1998, along with the brake wheel. This critical repair allowed the French millstones to rotate for the first time since potentially 1908. The spring shutters on the sweeps, originally installed in 1973, underwent a thorough process of cleaning, repair, and preservative treatment during the winter of 1998. By May 1999, they were successfully refitted, ensuring the continued operation of this historic landmark.

 A Tale of Triumph: Uckfield Mill's Resurgence:
 
In the autumn of 2022, the Nutley Windmill faced a significant setback. A failed stock caused the uppermost sweep (sail) to break off, narrowly missing the mill's historic beams. This incident marked a crucial turning point in the mill's preservation journey.
 
A Community Comes Together:
 
Undeterred by the damage, the Uckfield community rallied around the mill. A crowdfunding campaign was launched to raise the necessary funds for repairs. The response was overwhelming, with generous donors pledging an astonishing £10,500. This outpouring of support not only demonstrated the community's deep affection for the mill but also provided a vital lifeline for its restoration.
 
The Road to Recovery:
 
The new stocks were fitted on June 21st, a day carefully chosen for its ample daylight. The process was a delicate balancing act, involving a crane and cherry picker to carefully maneuver the 10-meter-long stocks into place. Precise measurements ensured that the stocks were positioned correctly, minimizing the risk of the sails colliding with the mill's structure.
 
A Testament to Resilience:
 
The successful repair of Nutley Windmill is a testament to the power of community spirit and the dedication of those who work tirelessly to preserve our heritage. It is a story of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring value of historic landmarks. As the mill continues to stand tall, it serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our cultural heritage for generations to come.