So, after 150 years
dereliction, the little mill is active and thriving again following extensive
works carried out by local craftsmen, faithfully adhering to the original
design. Where ever possible the same materials, or closest match, have been
used. The Douglas Fir waterwheel measures 12 feet in diameter with 40 buckets,
each holding 14 litres approximately.
The flour is sold on
site and through farmer’s markets – quantities far in excess of the Priddle’s
expectations.
The site is shared
with a valuable repository of Cornish industrial machinery, relics, artifacts
and information relating to the mining industries and living conditions. The
Trevithick Society asked the Priddles to act as guardian/curators and so they
formed The Wayside Museum. Both museum and mill are a delight and full of
interest.
Now, if you would
like to live in the mill house and operate both the mill and museum, you could
discuss the opportunity of purchasing all three, lock stock and historic barrel,
with Bob and Sarah Priddle as they have now put the ‘job lot’ on the open market
– but at the very least, you should visit Trewey Mill and the Wayside Museum.
Article and
photographs by
Sheila Viner &
John Mears
