Melin Penrhiw

Melin Penrhiw, 2009

It's safe to say that this is the shortest of the ruined windmills on Anglesey. All that is left is the foundation, set in a grassy area in the middle of a housing estate in Rhostrehwfa.

The mill was probably built sometime before 1770. Little is known about its early days, but by 1840 it and the land around it was owned by William Roberts. The mill itself was run by men called William Williams for pretty much its entire life after this.

In 1841 a 31 year old William Williams was living at and running the mill on his own. Ten years later a younger William Williams was there. He was the son of the miller Owen Williams from Melin Orsedd near Pentraeth, and later moved to Gaerwen to work Melin Maengwyn and Melin Sguthan. He was being assisted by an 18 year old William Williams from Caergiliog.

By 1861 another William Williams had come along. He was born in Bodwrog around 1796 and became an agricultural labourer in Llanddeusant. In his 50s he was the miller at Nant Corn Mill in Llanbadrig for a while before moving to Penrhiw. He died in the 1860s and the mill was taken over by his son William Williams. He ran the mill until his death in 1908, assisted by his son, yet another William Williams. The mill closed around this time.

A substantial portion of the tower (also called Cefn Cwmmwd mill) stood here throughout most of the 20th century, and it was given a grade II listing as a building of historical interest. As housing grew up around it the local council became concerned about the condition and safety of the tower. They decided it should be removed rather than repaired, but local residents began a campaign to save it. However, before they could meet the council to press their case the bulldozers were sent in, early in the morning of 5 August 1987, and it was demolished. The subsequent outcry received wide coverage in the local press.

See other images of this windmill at: