The Jamestown Windmill has been a landmark on the island since its construction in 1787. The 3-story structure is a postcard-perfect sight amid the town’s lush pastoral greenery and is a remarkably well-maintained example of heritage agricultural technology. Visit the pretty windmill to snap photographs of its picturesque octagonal walls or climb inside to see the inner workings of this fascinating historic structure.
As you approach the windmill, you’ll notice its idyllic appearance in Jamestown’s farmland scenery. Originally, the 30-foot (9.1-meter) framework was constructed with hand-hewn chestnut wood. The exterior is comprised of white-painted cedar shingles and an eye-catching red door.
Look up to see the four arms of the windmill affixed to a rounded dome. Traditionally, these are fitted with sails that would capture the sea breeze that courses over the island. Enter the windmill and climb to the top to learn about the structure’s intriguing technology and history. The Jamestown Windmill was built to replace the site’s earlier mill, which was destroyed by British occupational forces. It was used to grind corn until 1896 and is now preserved by the Jamestown Historical Society.
Visit the Jamestown Windmill on an even year to witness the celebrations of Windmill Day, when the cloths are fixed onto the sails and the windmill catches the breeze once again. This biannual celebration occurs in July. Whatever the season, the Jamestown Windmill is a striking structure in the landscape. See the mill surrounded by the leafy greenery of the surrounding woods in summer or admire the tranquility of the bare countryside in winter.
The Jamestown Windmill is located in the island’s center, within the Windmill Hill Historic District of Jamestown. It is a 5-minute drive north from downtown. The interior is open to visitors for free between mid-June and mid-October, as well as by appointment. While in Jamestown, be sure to check out the region’s other historic sites, such as the 1776 Conanicut Battery, the Meetinghouse and the Town Hall.
