Windmill in Štípa, větrný mlýn a kulturní památka České republiky na území obce Zlín
The Windmill in Štípa is a small cylindrical stone structure made of bricks with a shingled roof, standing about 8.5 meters (28 feet) high and equipped with four blades about 10 meters (33 feet) across. Inside are an original millstone system with a wooden wheel about 2 meters (6.5 feet) in diameter with many teeth, along with various belts, gears, and machinery that once powered the grinding stones and a small saw.
The mill was built around 1860 by Kristián Kovář and his son Josef using stones and bricks from a nearby quarry, and operated for many years grinding grain for locals. After grinding grain continuously until 1941, it saw sporadic use during and after World War Two before finally closing in the 1950s, though ownership returned to Rudolf Kovář's family in 1989.
The windmill carries the name of the Kovář family, who operated it through generations and continue to maintain the structure with care today. Its simple, functional design made from traditional materials reflects the practical skills of the rural craftspeople who built such structures.
The mill is accessible from the outside and available for interior viewing by prior arrangement with the owners, who regularly maintain and repair the structure to ensure safety. The site sits at an elevation of about 340 meters and offers a quiet setting for exploration, with walking and cycling paths in the surrounding countryside.
During World War Two, locals secretly ground grain at night even though the mill was officially closed to operation. A strong wind broke one of the blades in 1990 shortly after the family regained ownership, but it was repaired quickly, showing the dedication to keeping the structure intact.
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