An emergency fundraising appeal to repair the historic Wimbledon Windmill, launched just a week ago, has already exceeded its £13,000 target, raising more than £20,000 including Gift Aid – a remarkable 130% of the initial goal.
The Grade II* listed windmill, a beloved landmark that has stood on Wimbledon Common for over 200 years, was struck by lightning during severe storms on 5 July. The strike damaged one of the timber sails and the internal electrical systems of the 19th-century structure.
Lightning Protection Prevents Disaster
Thankfully, the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators (WPCC) had already installed lightning protection, which prevented more serious damage or the total loss of the windmill, as the electric strike was dissipated into the ground and no one was hurt.
The sail that took the brunt of the strike, and saved the windmill, did get damaged however and repairing it will cost nearly £2,000.
The most expensive repair involves the fantail mechanism – a crucial component that positions the windmill’s sails to capture the wind. To ensure that the sails are positioned best to capture the wind, a fantail mounted at the back of the cap (the structure that carries the sails) uses a series of gears to turn the cap into the wind. Due to the specialized materials required, the height of the mechanism, and the need for crane access, repairing the fantail will cost more than £11,000.
Restoration Underway
Work has already begun on the restoration project. The fantail has been removed by crane this week, ready for specialist repairs. The WPCC hopes to complete the restoration and have the windmill back to full health by mid-September, in time for the annual Commons Open Day on Sunday, September 14th.
The Open Day, running from 10:30am to 5:30pm near the Windmill, will feature craft stalls, arena events including birds of prey displays and riding demonstrations, funfair rides, and family activities – making it the perfect occasion to showcase the restored windmill to the community.
The extraordinary community response to the appeal has clearly demonstrated local affection for the windmill. The excess funds raised will be dedicated to future maintenance of the structure, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.
A Living Piece of History
Built in 1817 by carpenter Charles March, the windmill represents a unique piece of British industrial heritage. It was a hollow post mill for its entire working life, but was rebuilt as a smock mill when it was preserved in 1893. The mill operated commercially until 1864, when the miller was evicted by the Lord of the Manor, Earl Spencer, who wanted to enclose the common for his own use.
The structure has survived multiple challenges throughout its history. After ceasing operations as a working mill, it was converted into residential accommodation for six families before undergoing major restoration in 1893. Following further repairs in 1975, it reopened as a museum in 1976.
Recent Revival Efforts
Earlier this spring, WPCC and the Wimbledon Windmill Museum had begun turning the sails the first time in decades – something that made the lightning damage even more frustrating.
The windmill has notable cultural connections. Robert Baden-Powell stayed there in 1902 and wrote parts of Scouting for Boys at the windmill. It has also appeared in several films and television productions, including a 1966 Doctor Who episode.
Community Response
The rapid success of the fundraising campaign reflects the windmill’s status as an iconic landmark. The museum, which operates on weekends and bank holidays from March to October, attracts thousands of visitors annually with its interactive exhibits covering windmill history, local heritage, and the scouting movement.
The WPCC is planning a celebratory event once repairs are complete to thank the supporters who made the rapid restoration possible.
The Wimbledon Windmill Museum is typically open Saturdays 2-5pm and Sundays and bank holidays 11am-5pm. For more information about visiting or supporting the windmill, visit www.wimbledonwindmill.org.uk
