Centuries ago, windmills weren’t just picturesque structures—they were essential machines driving the local economy. On Long Island, the constant bay and ocean breezes powered these wooden giants to grind grain for the farms that dotted the landscape. Remarkably, Long Island is home to more historic windmills than anywhere else in the United States, a claim that has delighted history buffs for years.
All of the surviving windmills on Long Island are classified as “smock mills,” a design known for its hexagonal or octagonal shape and a cap that swivels to catch the wind. Surprisingly portable for their size, these windmills were often moved from town to town before settling into their final locations. Today, 11 windmills from the 18th and 19th centuries remain, each with its own fascinating story. Here are three that stand out:
1. Gardiner’s Island Windmill (Built Late 1700s)
Built by Nathaniel Dominy V, a master craftsman from East Hampton, this windmill is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind. Dominy later rebuilt it in 1815 using cutting-edge millwright technology of the time. Located on Gardiner’s Island, the windmill has earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places for its authentic design and historical significance. It’s one of only four remaining windmills built by Dominy, making it a must-know piece of Long Island history.
2. The Lathrop Brown Windmill (Built 1813)
This windmill’s journey is almost as fascinating as its construction. Originally built in Wainscott, it was purchased by Lathrop Brown in 1922 and relocated to Montauk as part of his estate. But the windmill didn’t stop moving! In 1942, it found a new home at the Georgica Association in East Hampton. With its roots in the early 19th century and a history of constant relocation, this windmill exemplifies how these structures were adapted to changing times and needs.
3. Beebe Windmill (Built 1820)
Captain Lester Beebe, a retired whaler and shipbuilder, originally erected this windmill in Sag Harbor. Over the years, it was relocated multiple times before finally landing in Bridgehampton on the Berwind estate in 1915. Southampton Town restored it in the 1980s and again in the early 2000s, ensuring its legacy endures. Today, it stands as a tribute to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the 19th century.
A Lasting Legacy
From the East End’s sandy shores to its inland farms, these windmills are more than just historical artifacts—they’re symbols of the ingenuity and resilience of Long Islanders. So next time you see one of these beautiful structures, take a moment to appreciate the wind-powered past that helped shape the island we love today.
