The old Mill

I called in at Dunham Massey Park this morning. It was glorious weather whilst I was there - I had to exchange my specs for sunglasses to protect my eyes, and I was by no means the only one wearing shades.

This 17th century corn mill (reused as a sawmill from the 19th century) is the oldest building within the park walls. It still has a turning water wheel - it was turning today. The mill is shaded out by surrounding trees much of the year, so today was as good as it gets photographically.

Prior to the Industrial Revolution the water mill must have been a common sight in every village, town and city across the country. It was the only means of turning seed into flour to make bread and other products. The few scattered survivors are now curiosities, a reminder of a bygone age.