Local History group members pictured with the owner of Buckland Mill
The Local History group recently enjoyed a visit to Buckland. In the garden of a Grade II-listed house that was previously lived in by the carpenters of the Buckland Court Estate we were given a guided tour of the only surviving wind-powered sawmill in the UK. Built between 1860 and 1870 the saw and lathe worked from belts driven by the lineshaft powered directly by the sails.
The UK’s only surviving wind-powered sawmill
In 1892 a more efficient steam engine was purchased to saw the wood. In 1995 the new owners of the house rediscovered the windmill in a derelict condition but luckily with many of the components, including the shuttered sails, stored inside. Nine years of restoration followed, gaining two prestigious awards.
The group then visited Buckland’s church, St Mary the Virgin, which overlooks the picturesque village green. Refurbished in 1860 by eminent church architect Henry Woodyer, it has been described as ‘one of Woodyer’s best achievements’ and ‘Victorian church building at its best’.
Two fascinating tours in one morning.
report and photos by Paul Smith