Have you ever felt the wind’s breath whispering secrets through ancient wooden sails? Welcome to Shirley Windmill a true testament to Croydon’s industrial past. Built in 1854 by Richard Alwen it replaced a previous post mill tragically destroyed by fire. The story of Shirley Windmill is one of resilience rebirth and survival.
This magnificent structure wasn’t built from scratch. Imagine the journey materials from an older mill possibly Stratford were brought here reassembled to create this iconic landmark. A date etched 1740 on a beam hints at the re-use of older materials. The mill cost a substantial £2000 a considerable sum for its time. Some believe the original mill came from West Ham.
Over the years Shirley Windmill endured many trials. It faced abandonment in 1892 when Alfred Rayson deemed it unviable for anything but grinding animal feed. Lightning strikes tested its strength twice first in 1899 and then again in 1906. Each time it somehow survived. Restoration efforts in 1927 and later saw new sails fitted by skilled millwrights. A court case even ensued afterward proving the windmill’s value and the meticulous nature of its restoration. It was declared almost in working order.
Shirley Windmill wasn’t always a sure bet. The construction of the John Ruskin School threatened its very existence. Yet thanks to its listed status and the public’s fervent support the windmill survived this looming threat. Ironically excavations for the school unearthed trade tokens related to another mill in Kent a unique connection to Shirley Windmill’s own storied past. In 1971 an April Fool’s Day prank announcing its sale in The Times caused a minor stir. Even rose-ringed parakeets caused damage to the sails in 2008 requiring costly repairs.
Today Shirley Windmill stands tall a survivor. Its five stories its four Patent sails its cast-iron windshaft all tell a compelling tale. It’s a testament to human ingenuity perseverance and the enduring legacy of a bygone era. It is one of the last large windmills built in Surrey. The Friends of Shirley Windmill ensure this unique piece of Croydon history remains a vibrant part of the community. Take a moment to appreciate its strength its beauty its story. Shirley Windmill a place where history breathes in the wind.