1790
Post mill blown down
The earlier Whitburn post mill was blown down in strong gales in 1790.
Site overview
Whitburn Windmill stands at Whitburn. An earlier post mill was blown down in strong gales in 1790, and the present tower mill replaced it in the same year. The mill was built from local magnesian limestone and ground corn from local farms.
It stopped being used during the 1890s and was restored by South Tyneside Council in 1991–92.
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
Whitburn Windmill stands at Whitburn as a stone tower mill. An earlier post mill on the site was blown down in strong gales in 1790, and the present tower mill was built in the same year. The tower was built from local magnesian limestone and worked by grinding corn from local farms.
It is a three-storey building and later ceased working during the 1890s as steam mills took over. South Tyneside Council restored the windmill in 1991–92, including work to the sails, and the restoration received a Civic Trust Award. Later works repaired lime mortar and decaying plaster, replaced internal timber floors, and restored the blades.
The mill is Grade II listed.
Timeline
1790
Tower mill built
The present Whitburn tower mill was built in 1790.
1890–1899
Milling ceased
Whitburn Windmill stopped being used during the 1890s.
1991–1992
Mill restored
South Tyneside Council restored Whitburn Windmill in 1991–92.
Sources and records
Fabulous North: Whitburn Windmill
Co-Curate: Whitburn Windmill
Tyne and Wear Historic Environment Record: Whitburn Windmill
RHD Construction: Whitburn Windmill restoration
South Tyneside Council heritage information
Co-Curate: Whitburn Windmill
Tyne and Wear Historic Environment Record: Whitburn Windmill
RHD Construction: Whitburn Windmill restoration
South Tyneside Council heritage information