1850–1899
Wind-engine piers built
The wind-engine piers at Hillhouse were built as part of a wind-powered threshing-machine drive.
Site overview
Skelwick, Hillhouse retains the piers of a former wind-powered threshing-machine drive. The piers stand about 3 metres high and are part of the small group of Westray sites preserving evidence for this local wind-powered agricultural technology.
Map
Map markers and directions links are provided for location reference only and do not indicate public access or permission to enter a site.
No site photograph is currently available. Images will be added as field visits are carried out.
History
Skelwick, Hillhouse is a former wind-engine site at Skelwick on Westray in Orkney. The site retains wind-engine piers about 3 metres high, representing a former wind-powered threshing-machine drive. Wind-powered threshing machines were developed locally from the mid nineteenth century onwards and were suited to the exposed Orkney crofting landscape, where there was strong wind and limited water power.
Hillhouse is one of the small number of Westray sites where the wind-engine piers survive substantially complete. No detailed maker, ownership sequence, full machinery description, or final operating date has been established.
Timeline
2001
Listed building designation
Skelwick, Hillhouse was listed on 30 March 2001.
Sources and records
Historic Environment Scotland listed building record; Trove / Canmore place record; Orkney industrial heritage report