Old Mill To Remain Under Construction This Summer As Restoration Project Continues

The Nantucket Historical Association is moving into the next phase of restoration work on the Old Mill, a multi-year project that has become more extensive than originally expected.

First built in 1746, the Old Mill is believed to be the oldest working windmill in the United States and remains one of Nantucket’s most recognizable landmarks.

The restoration began in late 2024, but once the structure was opened for closer inspection, additional research and testing revealed that comprehensive planning and thorough preparation would be required to continue the project.

“Historic machines such as this are often upgraded with modern technology because it can be difficult to source original parts and find the necessary materials," said the NHA's Gosnell Executive Director Niles Parker. “We do not want to take that approach. We think it’s critically important to preserve what makes this mill unique.”

The work will become more visible to the public this summer. Security fencing has been installed around the perimeter, and a boom will remain on site to avoid using scaffolding to access the exterior. A crane will later be used to remove the cap from the top of the mill to allow millwright Amy Boyce of Husk Preservation to conduct a reconstruction and preservation survey. Barber & Sons of Nantucket will handle non-preservation construction, including installing protective panels fore the mill’s siding.

The Old Mill is the last remaining windmill of at least five that stood on the island’s ridge. The post and beam structure contains wooden gears and millstones that were designed to grind corn from wind power.

“While this will be a more time-consuming and costly initiative than we originally anticipated,” explains Parker, “it’s important to invest in this nationally important structure and make sure we maintain it as the icon it is. Besides, it will be an incredibly interesting process.”

The NHA will continue to provide updates as the restoration moves forward. A community program will be held at the Old Mill on Wednesday, July 1, for those interested in meeting the millwright and learning more about the preservation process.