In the course of these repairs we made some major discoveries. What we suspected was a lift for the waterwheel turned out to be an upside down cider press. Wooden gears that we thought were inoperable still interlock and turn. Once lubricated, an 18th century swivel crane lifted and repositioned the grain hopper as easily as the millers must have done nearly 225 years ago.
Main gear set back in place, properly supported and partial function restored
View of main gear from outside the mill where water wheel would drive the gear
Swivel crane to move mill stone to control fineness of grind restored
View of mill stone and belt driven mechanicals
Mill stones were cast rather than quarried to ensure precise grind could be achieved
Press used to make cider put back into place