Gladden Windmill, Historic windmill in Napoli, New York
Gladden Windmill is a four-story wooden structure built on a stone foundation in Napoli, New York. The building features a turbine room with adjustable shutters to manage wind flow and was designed to process grain for local use.
Built in 1890, this mill was designed after its creator saw a vertical wind turbine during a visit to Lincoln, Nebraska. This encounter led to the construction of one of the rare examples of vertical wind power technology from that era.
The windmill served local farmers for 40 years, combining grain milling operations with a farm tool repair shop in the same building.
The National Register listing provides official protection for this rare structure and helps support its long-term care. Visitors should check current access conditions beforehand, as restrictions may apply to entering the building.
Under the right wind conditions, this mill could grind grain, grate apples, and press cider, combining multiple farm functions in one building. This versatility made it an especially useful resource for the surrounding agricultural community.
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