I managed to catch the last open day this year at the Ifield Mill  – first opportunity I’ve had …. I didn’t realise the ‘Wheel’ was low and wide, having a preconceived picture in my head of those tall, thinish ones.

When I went inside the building my heart sank as I saw the stairs leading up to the next floor [ and above] as I knew straight away I would never make the climb!!

However – the ground floor houses the machinery that drives the Mill. As the brochure puts it : The WATERWHEEL drives the PITWHEEL which drives the WALLOWER , which drives the MAIN SPUR which,in turn, drives the SHAFT to turn the millstone ! So now you know ….  I did attempt some shots but as it was in motion all the time they were rather blurry. But they did have a bit of abstract charm about them I think. I must work on them.  I know I could have done some techy things on my camera but I’m not good at the spontaneous stuff – too many menus to wade through. I’ve learnt to make a lot of decisions before I venture out on my expeditions, but this time I didn’t think about the Mill’s moving parts.

From the description in the brochure this looks like it must be the items from an old Forge that was demolished in the 90’s and donated by the last owner of the business.

 

To my regret I didn’t spend enough time searching the ground floor for likely bits to shoot, not even the display/sales table or the lovely volunteer Mill Ladies who were so kind and helpful …. so, after I turned my attention upwards I headed outside again. Will try again in April/May next year DV.  I know that I missed out on such a lot of items and info that were there and I’m so disappointed as I love History ….

To one side of the road leading up to the Mill is a large area filled with rocks and boulders – I’m sure it all has a specific purpose, but anyway they are a mixture of colours and super textures. I think I might be able to get a bit more ‘artistic’ with my shots of them….

I will post a couple more pics of the actual building and also my usual flora from the walk to the Mill.   See you soon,   Eileen