There is an approximate replica of the mill in Founders Park in the town.
Contract for erecting a corn WIND MILL.— Sealed TENDERS will be received for the ERECTION of a WIND MILL for Grinding Corn, until the 7th of January, 1852. Plans and specifications maybe seen with J. W. G. Beauchamp, Esq., Architect and Civil Engineer. Tenders to be directed to G. F. Bush.The mill was almost ready to start work towards the end of 1852 Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XI, Issue XI, 25 September 1852, Page 121
NELSON WINDMILL. - The Public are informed that this Mill will be READY to GRIND on November the 8th, wheat and other kind of grain, with punctuallity and despatch, agreeable to a register of corn delivered at the Mill, from which there will be no departure.Interestingly, just as the Nelson windmill opened for business, the nearby Waimea steam mill (which originally also used wind power) was advertised for sale such as in Nelson Examiner
There are large and convenient granaries attached to the Mill for the stowage of grain and flour, which the public may avail themselves of.
Nelson, Sept. 24, 1852.
FLOUR MILL for SALE. - To be Sold, the WAIMEA STEAM FLOUR MILL, complete, with THREE DWELLING HOUSES, and THREE ACRES of LAND attached. Apply to Mr. H. Eliot, on the premises, or to A. Fell & Co., Nelson.
Richmond, October 2, 1852.
TO MILLERS. - WANTED a first rate MILLER, who is capable of dressing stones and working a Wind Mill. Liberal wages will be given. Apply to G. F. Bush, Nelson.The actual start of grinding at the mill seems to have been delayed, maybe until a miller was employed: Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XI, Issue 566, 8 January 1853, Page 182
New Flour Mill.— The Wind Mill which has been erected by Mr. Bush at the bottom of Trafalgar Street, was worked for the first time on Saturday last. The building and machinery is most substantial and complete, and beside its utility, the mill is really, from its admirable structure, an ornament to the town.The windmill was included as a cornerstone of the progress being made in the growth of the town: Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XII, Issue 573, 26 February 1853, Page 2
Without having recourse to dry figures, any person who knew the settlement of Nelson no longer than three years ago, cannot fail on looking now at either town or country, to be struck with its unmistakable signs of progress. The erection in town of two neat churches for the Episcopalian and Presbyterian congregations, a handsome windmill, and a neat and elegant iron suspension bridge over the Maitai, are among the new buildings of a public class, whilst a better class of shops which have sprung up in the streets, and several picturesque residences along the foot of the neighbouring hills, mark equally the growing wealth of the community. But if the real progress of the settlement is to be studied, it must be done in the country, where field after field is being rapidly enclosed, and the wild scrub is fast giving place to the products of industry. Within the period just named two flour mills have been erected, the one at Richmond and the other at Motueka, besides a vast number of cottages and more substantial buildings. The establiahment of a Cattle Fair, at Richmond is also a satisfactory indication of progress.Henry Barltrop started work as the miller at the windmill in 1853, but I'm not clear if he was appointed as the very first miller: Colonist, Volume LV, Issue 13806, 21 August 1913, Page 2
EARLY RECOLLECTIONS.Barltrop was working the mill around the time of the Nelson earthquake in 1855: Colonist, Volume XLIX, Issue 11876, 5 March 1907, Page 3
(By Henry Barltrop.) ... When I was in Taranaki in '52 I became acquainted with the late Mr. William Wilkie. He went up there on a trading expedition in a topsail schooner called the Wellington, built at Motupipi, and owned by Captain Furgeson (who used to sail the "Ocean"). I next saw Mr. Wilkie in Wellington, and he was the means of my coming to Nelson to take charge of Dr. Bush's windmill. The brig Spray was laid on, but she would not wait for me, so I took a passage in the "Mary," one of Empson's vessels, and did not have a very propitious passage across. ...
In the latter part of 1853 I had occasion to go over to Wellington to sell some flour for Dr. Bush. ...
I worked at the Windmill at flour making till '55 or '56 ...
After that I went to work for the late Mr Matthew Campbell, and put up a steam engine to work a small mill, on the site where Griffin's Factory stands, as there was no water in the Brook-street stream, and the mill was crowded with wheat, so we ground it there, and took the meal down to the other mill to get dressed, as they managed to get enough water to do that part. My next job was to put up an engine for the late Mr. Hooper, at the Nelson Brewery, and it is still working to this day. It had to connect the pump to the engine for the refrigerator (before they had to pump by hand), also to connect the rollers for grinding the malt; formerly they had horse power, but it was very unsteady. I worked between two and three years for the late Mr. Alfred Saundors at the Brightwater flourmill. After that I joined the late Mr. William Wilkie, and was in his employ for 37 1/2 years. Since then I have been on my own account up to the present' time.
PAST HISTORY— THE TRAFALGAR HOTEL.
To the Editor. Sir,- ln a local of this morning's issue re the age of the Trafalgar Hotel, I remember the circumstance quite well. It was commenced the latter portion of the year 1854, and it was not quite finished at the time of the big earthquake of January 22nd, 1855. I was at that time at Dr. Bush's windmill, but did not feel overjoyed at sleeping by myself in that isolated spot at that time. Mr G. Taylor, the landlord of the Trafalgar at that time, was down spending an hour or so with me, when the earthquake came on; so we came up to town and I slept there that night, and the slates on the roof kept up a good clatter all night. Mrs Taylor, the landlady, never went to bed all night, for when a shake came on she would run across the road to Sullivan's Oddfellows' Arms for safety, and sat on a form till it was over. The ground was not quiet for some weeks after. The late Mr Bright, senior, was the builder of the Trafalgar Hotel, as be generally did all Mr Harley, senior's, work. It was considered in those days a grand piece of work.
Yours, etc., HENRY BARLTROP.
Accident. - A serious accident happened on Thursday last to Mr. G. Taylor, of the Anchor Inn, who, on descending the stairs at the Windmill (where he had been on business), slipped his foot, and fell from the first landing to the floor below, a distance of upwards of twelve feet. He was immediately conveyed home in a cart, and medical assistance having been obtained, it was found that he had broken his leg just above the ankle. We are happy to add that there is every hope of his speedy recovery.Clearly Mr Ockley was another customer of the mill, since this notice appeared a week later in Issue 631
NOTICE. - If the person who took away Mr. Ockley's FLOUR from the Nelson Windmill, does not immediately RETURN the same, a warrant will be issued for his apprehension.
G. F. Bush.
Nelson, April 7.
TO be SOLD, the NELSON WINDMILL, with three pair of stones and dressing machine, with all conveniences; also, a Steam Engine, to be erected so as to work either power. A self-acting top. The whole building is most substantially erected.The steam engine from Richmond Mill was also for sale at this time: Nelson Examiner, 19 Aug 1854,
A portion of the money may remain upon mortgage.
Apply to G. F. Bush.
FOR SALE, ONE 8-HORSE POWER STEAM ENGINE, made by Hughes, Dover-road, London, with boiler, fittings, &c, complete.
The above lies in very little compass, and is well known to have proved a first-rate Engine.
Ready for delivery on or after the 1st of next month.
Apply to ALFRED SAUNDERS, Richmond Mill. July 8.
NELSON WINDMILL.More details of the grand plan for the town that this Company would bring: The Colonist, Issue 50, 13 April 1858IT is the intention of the Proprieter of the Nelson Windmill (should it meet the views of the public), to dispose of his interest in that Property, with all that appertains to it, to a Company who can best carry out the original scheme.
The Capital of the Company to consist of £5,000, in 500 shares of £10 each.
The Mill Property to be sold for three thousand pounds; two thousand of which to be expended in shares, one thousand in cash. The remaining two thousand pounds of the capital to be expended in erecting the Steam Engine and cutting the Canal, and carrying on the Mill.
The Canal will admit of a vessel drawing five feet of water passing up to the very heart of the Town.
The Projector is especially anxious that the scheme should be laid before the Public at once. The Canal may be made use of as the most effectual means of draining the Town : this, combined with bringing vessels to the bottom of the principal street, is an object which should induce the people of Nelson to come forward in support of such an important undertaking, wherein profit is combined with utility and convenience.
Nelson, February 14, 1856.
NELSON TOWN IMPROVEMENT COMPANY.The proposal was certainly considered and talked about (The Colonist, Issue 93, 10 September 1858 and The Colonist, Volume III, Issue 231, 6 January 1860), but ultimately came to nothing.
It is proposed to form a Company, to be called the "Nelson Town Improvement Company," with a capital of [ ] thousand pounds in pounds shares, to carry out the following objects :—Reasons for the formation of a Company.
- To purchase the interest in the property of Mr. G. F. Bush, at the bottom of Trafalgar-street, viz., the Nelson Windmill and acre, two freehold acres, and good-will of four others, for the sum of [ ] pounds; one-third to be paid in cash, the remainder to be taken in shares, or the whole may be taken in shares.
- To cut a channel from the mill to Green Point, so that the depth of water shall be the same at the mill as at the point.
- To attach water-power to the mill, which may work the same at all seasons, either flour, timber, or flax.
- To effectually drain the town by means of the channel.
- To reclaim waste land, and improve the town property generally.
- To treat with the Government to supply a light-house by means of the mill.
- Water-power at mill capable of supplying four times the want of the colony.
- The channel will bring the port to the town, and concentrate the town, and thereby add a considerable value to the property of Trafalgar, Bridge, Hardy, Halifax, and Collingwood streets.
- Coast steamer will be enabled to pass up to the principal street of the town at half-tides.
- Motueka, Massacre Bay, Waithoi, Queen Charlotte's Sound, and other coast settlements will be more closely attached to Nelson by the greater facilities of getting supplied and discharging cargo.
- Greater despatch of vessels generally by the greater facility of shipping minerals and produce.
- Carriage of timber and produce from Waimea, Motueka, Massacre Bay, and other coast settlements, reduced one-third.
- A channel should also be cut at Waimea.
- Savings in repairs of Waimea and Haven roads.
- Saving of merchants' time.
- Most effectual means of draining town and reclaiming land.
- Increased value of Company's property.
- Water a ship with one hundred tons of water at one tide; at present takes eight or ten days.
- Mail bags brought direct to town.
- Cartage to beach, 6s. per load; boating, 5s. per ton.
- Import and export eight or ten thousand tons per year.
- The Company's property will form a general depot for commerce.
- The coast steamer may leave Nelson at halftide, go to Waitnea and Motueka, return the same day, bring in or take out a vessel.
- It is presumed, should the Government think favorably of the drainage and light-house, that a sum may reasonably be expected from the Government more than sufficient to pay the interest, of the expenditure.
- An illuminated clock may be erected, lighted from the light by reflectors.
- Baths may at a future time be erected.
A small HOUSE to LET, near the Nelson Windmill.With the lack of take up of the grand Company idea, Dr Bush again tried to dispose of the windmill itself: Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XVIII, 23 February 1859
George F. Bush.
December 22, 1857
TO be LET or SOLD, the NELSON WIND-MILL, capable of having steam or water of eight or ten horse-power attached.
It is situated in one of the best business parts of the town of Nelson, and capable of having several trades carried on under a competent superintendent.
The proprietor would have no objection to join in the enterprise.
Apply to George F. Bush, Nelson.
Included in a mixture of properties for sale: Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XIX, Issue 25, 28 March 1860
FOR SALE, in Building Allotments, having Frontages to Trafalgar and Halifax-streets that valuable FREEHOLD known as the Mill Acre. Price moderate, and terms easy.
FOR SALE, in Villa Sites, on the east bank of the Maitai, and contiguous to the Suspension Bridge, Six eligible FREEHOLD ALLOTMENTS, on easy terms.
TO BE LET on lease, at a low rent, the HOUSE and GARDEN lately occupied by Mr. Knyvet.
TO BE SOLD or LET, that eligibly situated FLOUR MILL, known as Bush's Mill, Trafalgar-street.
For plans and particulars, apply to H. B. HUDDLESTON, Trafalgar-street.
On the night of Tuesday last our city was visited by a very severe storm, during which a heavy rain continually poured down for many successive hours, and as a consequence a considerable flood was occasioned in all the rivers. ... Trafalgar-street was inundated at that part near the river, the windmill being entirely surrounded with water.An unusually windy period gave rise to a comment involving the windmill: The Colonist, Volume IV, Issue 322, 20 November 1860
The weather continues unsettled, cloudy, rather wet, and so frequently windy, that we shall begin to think the windmill after all would not be such a dead letter as previously, if much more is experienced.
TO be SOLD or LET, the NELSON WINDMILL, which is also capable of having water of twelve horse power attached, winter and summer. The Proprietor is willing to enter into partnership without drawing capital. Apply to G. F. Bush, Selwyn-place. April 16, 1861.
Someone was glad of the mill - using it as a place to sleep! Colonist, Volume V, Issue 441, 14 January 1862, Page 2
POLICE COURT.The mill was again surrounded by river floods: Colonist, Volume V, Issue 455, 4 March 1862, Page 2
[Before J. Poynteb, Esq., Resident Magistrate] Wednesday, January 8.
Harriett Mary Jordan, a half-caste from the Wairau, was charged by Edwin Edwards with unlawfully wandering at large and lodging in the open air, she not having any visible means of subsistence, and not being able to give a good account of herself.
Defendant said she had been in service at Mr. Butt's, and was the daughter of Black Jordan. She left the Wairau for her own pleasure.
Constable Edwards said she had been in the habit of sleeping in the omnibus on the Government wharf, and at other times in Bush's mill.
The Magistrate said he should detain her until inquiries could be made as to her future abode. We hear she has since obtained a situation.
The Maitai.-We are sorry to have to record the occurrence of another flood in this river, which has inflicted considerable inconvenience, damage, or positive loss through the many instances of encroachment on its banks that have occurred. On Friday last the north-east wind swept up from sea-ward volumes of rain-charged clouds, which towards evening commenced their down-pour in earnest. This heavy fall continued all night and until a late hour on Saturday evening, when its violence stated, permitting Sunday morning to be fine enough for Sabbath duties, but visiting us in the afternoon with a storm of hail, rain, thunder and lightning of some continuance. The Maitai river was at its highest on Saturday night, sweeping down with irresistible fury, overtopping its banks in Collingwood-street, opposite Mr. Harley's house, and surrounding the houses between there and the usual river bank with a rapidly moving sheet of water that threatened every tenement and caused some damage to the properties around. ... From this point the stream has taken a sweep towards Bush's mill (some of the foundation of which was still under water) whence it spread over to its usual bed by the fenced land at the turn. Yesterday much of the water came round by the mill up Trafalgar-street to the mouth of the culvert, and poured into the main drain. The quantity of timber that was carried to sea or thrown upon the banks shows the height the water rose in the timbered gorges, and many persons yesterday fulfilled the old adage that 'it's an ill wind that blows nobody good' by collecting large quantities of good firewood thus thrown within their reach.These floods considerably altered the course of the Maitai river near the mill Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXI, Issue 73, 27 August 1862, Page 3
Mr. Sait drew attention to the fact that the River Maitai was gradually forming its course on the town side of Bush's mill, and that it might, eventually, stop the outlet of the Trafalgar-street culvert.
NELSON WINDMILL.Even with no reserve, the mill failed to sell Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXI, Issue 41, 14 May 1862
MR. D. MOORE is instructed to SELL by AUCTION, at his Warehouse, Trafalgar-street, on SATURDAY, the 26th instant, at Noon, without reserve — The MILL, and acre of LAND in which it stands, situated at the north end of Trafalgar-street, with a small Cottage attached.
The above valuable property will be sold without reserve, unless previously disposed of by private sale, of which due notice will be given.
Terms at Sale. Nelson, April 8, 1862
NELSON WINDMILL, and TOWN ACRE, 234. No eligible offer having been made for the above, at Auction, the undersigned is empowered to SELL the PROPERTY by Private Contract.There was still no rush to buy - the same ad ran in various papers until at least August 1862.
Intending purchasers are requested to view the property and make early application, as he is authorized to Sell at a very low price.
Water-power can be attached, with a fall of eight feet, at a comparatively small expense.
D. Moore. Nelson, May 13.
To the Editor of the Colonist.A fire did indeed break out near what was now being described by some as the "old windmill" Colonist, Volume VI, Issue 555, 17 February 1863
Sir, - During my stay in Nelson, when summoned to attend as a juror at the late sitting of the Supreme Court, my attention was arrested to what may prove, if not speedily removed, of very serious consequence to a great part of the inhabitants of the city. I allude to that dense body of flax which is suffered to remain on each side of the way leading to the windmill. It is well known that flax from its fibrous nature will burn nearly as readily in a green state as otherwise. I have also observed that it generally burns through the middle of the leaf, and if a strong wind is blowing at the time, may be carried a considerable distance, when unlike the fern it remains ignited for a considerable time. Being surrounded by dwellings, it is quite possible that some hot ashes may he thrown out, or from the delight children manifest in making fires, a calamity might ensue, which by proper steps being taken may be averted.
Yours, &c, JAMES P. HORN.
Fire.- Yesterday morning the flax on the low ground on the eastern side of Trafalgar-street, between the rear of the Marine Hotel and the Windmill, was by some means fired, and volumes of smoke called numbers to the spot to assist in confining the flames within safe bounds. Men were employed to beat out the fire, but this failing the fire-engine, manned by a volunteer force collected on the spot, was put into requisition, and the burning was confined within secure limits and quickly subdued altogether. The origin of the fire is not known; but a partially consumed cask, which had apparently contained straw, was discovered near the spot where the fire first commenced, and it is supposed that by some means the straw became first ignited, and communicated flame to the mass of flaxbush around it. We speak above of the 'volunteer force' in contradistinction to the fire brigade which was once organised in Nelson, but which lately has not made itself manifest as a body at the several narrow escapes by fire that the town has had; one or two members only having put in an appearance for the general corps on such occasions.Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXII, Issue 16, 18 February 1863
Fire — Between eight and nine o'clock on Monday morning the flax near the old windmill, on the eastern side of Trafalgar-street, was observed to be burning. At first this did not cause any alarm, but, as the fire continued to spread, it became necessary to use exertions to extinguish it, lest it might reach the rear of houses in Bridge-street. A number of persons attempted to beat the fire out, but, their efforts being unavailing, the fire engine was brought out, and, after about an hour's work, it extinguished the flames. The origin of the fire remains a mystery, some persons thinking that fire had been intentionally set to some straw in a cask, while others, and we think with more reason presume that it was caused by a match thrown in the flax by some person passing by after lighting his pipe.Around the same date, a description of the town described the windmill as deserted - that could have been on account of the weather, but could also indicate that it was no longer in use: New Zealander, Volume XIX, Issue 1848, 18 April 1863
It was a dreary, drizzly, day on which I first set foot in Nelson; but the railway omnibus having set us down in the centre of the city in the most satisfactory manner, I lost no time in prosecuting my researches. Nelson has been very judiciously founded. It is a clean, compact, orderly city. The streets are wide, well formed, laid out at right angles, and appropriately named in memory of the comrades and co-victors of England’s - the world's - mightiest naval worthy - Trafalgar being the name of the main, Collingwood. Hardy, &c., those of the other streets. Seawards, a deserted windmill, and at the opposite extremity landwards, one of the quaintest and prettiest of churches, perched upon a natural sad commanding mound, indicate Trafalgar, the central street.When a new fire engine was bought for the town, it was tested by comparing it against the height of the windmill: Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXII, Issue 99, 8 October 1863, Page 2
Fire-Engine. - This engine, recently imported from England, was, on Tuesday last, at noon, and again in the evening, tested in Trafalgar-street. The trial in the morning was certainly not successful, as the jet of water could not be thrown over the top of the wind-mill, a height not exceeding, we think, sixty feet. In the evening, however, with a greater number of men to work it, the engine answered a little more satisfactorily, though certainly not to the extent of "throwing 134 gallons per minute to the height of 130 feet." That there is a mistake somewhere was apparent, for the jet of water did not reach to anything like the distance named. Whether that failure is attributable to the manner in which the engine has been put together in Nelson, or to the fact of the Superintendent of the London Fire Brigade, under whose personal inspection it was constructed, having been deceived in its power, we know not. It is, however, of the greatest importance that the full power of the engine should be amply tested, so that it may be known whether we do possess an article to repay us for what we cannot but think a very liberal outlay.
FOR PEREMPTORY SALEThe ad also appeared with the last line amended to make details more available: Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXII, Issue 50, 6 June 1863, Page 1
VALUABLE CITY PROPERTY. MR. D. MOORE is favoured with instructions to SELL by public AUCTION, at his Warehouse, Trafalgar-street on SATURDAY, June 13, at One o'clock — That very desirable TOWN ACRE, No. 234, situate in Trafalgar-street, Nelson, together with substantial COTTAGE thereon, containing three rooms. The above acre is a most eligible property, being centrally situated in the business portion of the town, and as the gold-fields are developed, will shortly considerably increase in value.
Also - The WINDMILL, situate on the above-named acre, the framework being of English Oak and Yellow Pine
The whole of the Corn Mill Machinery
2 pairs Grindstones
And the Foundation, consisting of about 200 tons of stone and concrete Terms liberal at sale.
N.B. - The entire building will have to be removed within one month from date of sale. - Further particulars may be obtained at the office of the auctioneer.
Nelson, May 30.
Further particulars may be obtained on application to Messrs. Adams and Kingdon, solicitors, Trafalgar street, and at the office of the auctioneer.
PUBLIC REJOICINGS AT THE MARRIAGE OF THE PRINCE OF WALES.Colonist, Volume VI, Issue 590, 19 June 1863
...
After dusk there was given a grand display of fireworks near the windmill, in Trafalgar-street, and, at its conclusion, a large bonfire was lighted, which consisted of tar barrels and other inflammable materials. This, while burning, gave to the old mill a most pleasing appearance, and spread the glare of its flame some distance around.
NELSON REJOICINGS.
...
About this time the coup d'ail from the Church hill was remarkably fine. The street thence to the windmill was crowded with gaily-dressed people, and the long table placed down the centre of the street was laden with cakes and buns, sandwiches, and harmless liquid in the shape of ginger beer, and lined at each side with happy expectant children, whom the stewards and assistants were unremittingly supplying with refreshments. The flags and devices already described that "fluttered in the breeze," the large arches, and the ever-moving crowds of gailydressed people imparted an animation to the scene which not even the occasional showers of rain could discourage. The view from the lower part of Trafalgar-street was still more effective. The same gay colors and lively motion in the street was heightened by the immense number of people on the Church hill, while the Church formed a prominent, and chaste-looking object, and the dark stillness of the stern mountain that rose up behind and towered above it, contrasted strongly with the bustle and life that surrounded the church and filled the streets below....
THE FIREWORKS. As darkness approached, the character of the amusements and sights was changed. A few preliminary Roman candles sent up some "bright particular stars," and shortly after perfect volleys of rockets were shot whizzing through the air in long tracks of fire. These were repeated at intervals. Catherine wheels were occasionally fired, while blue lights and red and green fires variegated the scene. At last these displays were exhausted, and an enormous bonfire was lit, on the edge of the river near the windmill. From this the flames rose clear and high, and crackled loudly as the many tar and oil barrels yielded to the fire. This bonfire continued to blaze until far into the night. At a certain hour in the evening a fire balloon was sent up; but by the time it had ascended about 100 feet, it caught fire, and was consumed in mid-air.
The Fire Engine. - The fire engine which arrived by the Bard of Avon, appears to be well suited to meet the want that has so long existed for some means of guarding against the visitation of an extensive conflagration, and supplying a more satisfactory defence than has been at our command hitherto. This machine is of the best and most substantial make, being in every way equal to the powerful engines employed by the home brigades....
A trial of the engine will take place this afternoon, about two o'clock, near the windmill.
THE RATIONALE OF THE POST-OFFICE SITE....
We now come to the different offers of blocks of land sent to the Government in reply to their advertisement....
17. 26th November. G. F. Bush - Mill acre, with windmill, at foot of Lower Trafalgar-street £1500...
The prices of these lots exclude nearly half of them from serious consideration, and all from £1000 and upwards must of necessity be dismissed from the argument.
SHEEP! SHEEP! LAMBS! LAMBS!
TO BUTCHERS, FLOCKOWNERS, AND OTHERS.
MR. J. J. HORNBY has received instructions to SELL by AUCTION, at the Windmill, Trafalgar-street, Nelson, on SATURDAY, the 7th day of January, 1865, at One o'clock, noon — About 400 YOUNG SHEEP and LAMBS (without reserve), in lots to suit purchasers.
TERMS : — Under £20, cash; above that sum, by approved acceptances, bearing Bank interest.
N.B.— The delivery of the Sheep, may be either taken at the time of sale, or not until after harvest.
Gentlemen availing themselves of this opportunity of adding to the sale, will please communicate (in writing or otherwise), with the Auctioneer, at least two days before the Sale.
Bridge-street, December 28, 1864.
An application was received from Mr. J. Scott, for permission to allow his cottage, near the Windmill, to still remain on the road, by his paying a nominal rental.He presumably saw how the windmill would be a suitable location for his business: Colonist, Volume VIII, Issue 763, 14 February 1865
NOTICE OF REMOVAL.
ON and AFTER THIS DATE the BUSINESS of the UNDERSIGNED will be CARRIED ON at the OLD WINDMILL, Trafalgar-street north
JOHN SCOTT, Builder. Nelson, February 13, 1865.
The mill was long out of action, and one of the reasons was give as a lack of wind: Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXVI, Issue 58, 14 May 1867
I differ with "Shipwright" in his opinion as to "the strong winds blowing either from the Waimea or the Bay being prevalent." The fact that we have not generally wind enough to drive the windmill at the bottom of Trafalgar-street, is notorious, and it had to be closed in consequence; and I also refer him to the Meteorological Observations, published monthly, to prove the contrary.
ANOTHER FIRE IN NELSON THIS MORNING.Nelson Evening Mail, Volume II, Issue 220, 19 September 1867
DESTRUCTION OF THE OLD WINDMILL
A little before nine o'clock this morning, the old windmill, in lower Trafalgar-street, occupied by Mr. Scott, carpenter and builder, as a carpenter's shop, was discovered to be on fire. When the fire-bell rang, the flames were seen bursting from all the windows of the central tower, which like the rest of the building, was of wood. The lower part of the structure, from which the tower arose, was still intact, and before the fire reached it time was allowed for the men to save a great portion of their tools, and also some of the wood work which was in the under part of the building. The wind, which was blowing strongly from the South-east fiercely fanned the flame, and within little more than half-an-hour from the time the fire-bell rang, the building was consumed. Fortunately, there was no house on the lee-side of the fire, and the adjacent buildings, which were to windward, and only a few feet apart from the burning windmill, were by the efforts of the fire brigade, and the steady application of water from the engines, saved from destruction. The tower fell in about twenty minutes after the fire was discovered; and so thoroughly was it consumed by reason of the force of the wind, that only a few embers were left to fall into the burning mass below.
A number of people assisted in removing timber out of the reach of the fervent heat which the fire threw out; but, considering the large number of persons present, far fewer engaged in the warm work than under the circumstances might fairly have been expected.
The origin of the fire is we think not far to seek. Adjoining, and within ten or twelve feet of the roof of what was the basement storey of the windmill, stands the steam-engine shed, the chimney of which, — a cast iron pipe — is only a few feet above the level of the roof of the lower story of the windmill. It is most probable that a spark from the chimney settled on the shingles of the roof and was fanned into flame by the fierce wind which was then blowing, and which soon set the whole edifice, as dry as tinder from the late hot weather, in flames.
Mr. Scott was insured in the New Zealand Insurance Company.
We would direct attention of those in authority to another chimney of the same kind, attached to a steam-engine, in Upper Bridge-street. In case of danger it is a mistake to be actuated by false delicacy, and, therefore, we do not hesitate to name Avery Brothers turning establishment. The fires of such engines are generally fed with the shavings, turnings, &c, and from these, especially in high winds and with, the great draughts which they occasion, live sparks are carried a considerable distance, with an effect of which no doubt we have had an example this morning. Had a spark from Mr. Avery's engine set an adjoining house in a blaze, where, with the high wind now blowing, would the flames have stopped? There is a close compact set of buildings all the way down Bridge-street, and with such possibilities it is necessary that some authority should be exercised. Whose business is it to see to these things? It must be either that of the Board of Works or the Provincial Government; and one or other of these bodies ought to look to it.
This morning, the chimney of the premises of Messrs. Clark and Harford, saddlers, Collingwood street, was on fire, the flames rising several feet above the chimney top. In such a wind as now prevails, it would have been a very serious thing for Nelson had the flames caught an adjacent roof, but happily this did not occur.
FIRE AT THE WINDMILLThe Colonist repeated their original story almost verbatim in their next issue, changing "this morning" to "yesterday", but one short paragraph in the middle contained new information: Colonist, Volume X, Issue 763, 20 September 1867About ten minutes before 9 o’clock this morning, the town was aroused by the pealing of the fire bell and also the bell at the Catholic station, and it was speedily discovered that the old windmill on the flat, which has so long constituted one of the most distinctive features of the city, was in flames. The alarm was, we believe, given by Mr W. Hargreaves, who immediately ran to the fire bell, and almost as soon as it had been set ringing, the small engine was taken out and brought to the spot. Mr Cooksey was first to arrive at the engine house at the Government Buildings, and immediately harnessed his horse to the large engine, and with the assistance of a large number of the fire brigade, brought it down to the scene of action. The flames by this time had gained such ascendancy that any attempt to subdue them would have been utterly futile; the efforts of the brigade were therefore confined to preventing the destruction of the two sheds adjoining, which contained the steam planing-machine, and a large quantity of cut timber, by playing upon the corner of the workshop which surrounded the mill, and which abutted upon them. In this they were fortunately successful, so that the destruction of property was confined to the mill itself. The wind, too, which was very strong at the time, blew from the east, and thus materially aided their efforts. The old mill, which was speedily enveloped in flames, raging most fiercely, presented a very striking spectacle, which, had the fire taken place at night, would have been magnificent in the extreme.
At seven minutes past 9 the whole structure, sails and all, came down with a tremendous crash, leaving only one spectral pole standing in the midst of the ruin. An immense number of people was congregated on the spot, and we are happy to state that every assistance was rendered Mr Scott in removing the timber, &c, by the bystanders. We need hardly add that the Brigade exerted themselves as effectively and energetically as usual, and a plentiful supply of water from the Maitai being at their command, they were thus enabled to confine the destruction of property to the old mill; the loss of which however, as a memorial of the early days of the settlement, will be much regretted, especially by the older inhabitants of the city. No accident, as far as we have been able to learn, occurred, and within an hour after the discovery of the fire the city had resumed its usual tranquility. We believe that no doubt is entertained that the fire was caused by a spark from the steam planing-machine in the adjoining shed, as the fire broke out in the upper story of the mill, and the workmen had time to remove their tools, &c, from the lower part. Mr Scott, who had purchased the mill from the executors of the late Dr. Bush, was insured by the New Zealand Insurance Company for £800.
We cannot conclude this notice without an expression of our thankfulness that this fire occurred in a location where its ravages were necessarily very much restricted; had it broken out in a more central part of the city, with the high wind which prevailed at the time, it is impossible to say what might have been the result.
Mr. Scott was insured in the New Zealand Insurance Company for £800; the damage will be about £300.The Fire Brigade who attended the mill file had only been formed a year before: Colonist, Volume X, Issue 763, 20 September 1867
ANNIVERSARY DINNER OF THE NELSON FIRE BRIGADE.Press, Volume XII, Issue 1519, 20 September 1867
This useful and fine body of men, who were organised a year ago, after the disastrous fire of August, 1866, held their first anniversary meeting appropriately enough, us it unfortunately happened, after their eminent services had yesterday morning been called into active play, with most satisfactory results, at the the fire at the old and picturesque windmill, now a thing of the past.
Nelson, September 19, 5.10 p.m. Another fire broke out here this morning in an old windmill, on the premises of Scott, the carpenter. A strong south-east wind was blowing, and the fire was probably caused by a spark from the engine chimney. The windmill, which was insured in the New Zealand office, was destroyed, but the adjacent buildings were saved. The damage done to the property is estimated at about £350.Nelson Evening Mail, Volume II, Issue 221, 20 September 1867
The inquest on the late fire at the Windmill will be held to-morrow morning at ten o'clock at the Court House.Nelson Evening Mail, Volume II, Issue 222, 21 September 1867
An inquest was held at the Court-house this morning at 10 o'clock, before the Coroner, Dr Squires, and a jury composed of the following: — Messrs D. Burns (foreman), J. M. Richardson, Flood, J. White, Bonnington, H. Buckeridge, J. Drew, J. Guy, Nattrass, aud Mills, to enquire into the origin of the late fire at the old windmill on Thursday morning last. The evidence of Robert William Stewart and Charles Bartlett, carpenters in the employ of Mr Scott, was taken, which went to prove that the fire was first seen bursting forth from one of the mill windows on the second story, which was not glazed, but boarded up. The engine fire in the adjoining shed had been lighted, and the men were just going to commence work, Mr Scott having cautioned them to take extra care of the fire, as the wind was so strong. Although no spark was seen to fall from the engine, it was generally concluded that the fire originated in this manner. The chimney was about ten feet distant from the nearest part of the mill wall, the top of the chimney being about 25 feet from the place where the fire was seen to break out. The whole proceedings did not occupy more than half-an-hour, and the jury returned a verdict to the intent that the fire was accidental. Some of the jurors wished to append a rider to the verdict stating their opinion that some action was necessary with reference to the practice of having steam-engines, especially when fed with fuel of an easily combustible nature, in close contiguity with shingled roofs and wooden houses in this city, but it was not adopted, probably for the reason that riders appear to be attended with little practical result.Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXVI, Issue 113, 24 September 1867
THE FIRE AT THE WINDMILL. I BEG to tender my warmest THANKS to the Members of the Fire Brigade, and to the numerous other Inhabitants who rendered ASSISTANCE in preventing the spread of the FIRE at my premises this morning, and in removing tools and material beyond the reach of danger. John Scott. Nelson, September 19. 1878Colonist, Volume X, Issue 764, 24 September 1867
Inquests on the Late Fires. - The Coroner, Dr. Squires, has held the customary inquisition for the purpose of ascertaining the origin of the fires which took place yesterday week and last Thursday morning. In the case of the store of Mr. Jones, the Jury, of which Mr. Graham was Foreman, returned a verdict to the effect that there was no evidence to show what was the cause of the fire. In that of the windmill helonging to Mr. Scott, the tendency of the evidence went to show that the probable cause was the lodging of a live spark from the furnace chimney on the dry wood of the windmill, and being quickly fanned into a flame by the action of the high wind bowing at the time. The verdict was that the fire was accidental.Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXVI, 5 October 1867
Destruction of the Windmill by Fire. — Shortly before nine a.m. on the 19th ultimo, the pealing of the fire-bells announced that another fire had broken out in our city, and it was quickly observed that the summit of the windmill, at the bottom of Trafalgar-street, was enveloped in flames. As it was blowing at the time half a gale of wind from the eastward, the chance of saving the building was hopeless, as before the engines, which were promptly on the spot, could be got to work, the fire had forced its way down into the middle of the building, which was used as a carpenter's shop, by Mr. Scott, builder. By vigorous efforts, a good deal of timber, and some of the tools on the premises, were saved, and the fire was prevented from extending to the engine-house and other workshops adjoining, but the whole of the building which originally formed the mill was destroyed. The fire is supposed to have arisen through a spark from the engine used in Mr. Scott's business, and which was on the windward side of the mill, and the wind being strong, this was probably blown in between the shingles and fanned into a flame. Mr. Scott was insured in the New Zealand Office.
When Mr. Barltrop came to Nelson for good in 1853 it was to run the windmill which used to stand on the site, where Miller's timber yard is now. Many people will be able to recall this old landmark, and it will be remembered that its solid foundations were exposed a few weeks ago when Mr. Millar was renewing the floor of a shed which now covers the site. Mr. Barltrop was living down there amongst the flax when the earthquakes of 1855 occurred. Old identities will remember that these commenced at about 9 o'clock on a summer's evening, and continued at intervals for several days. It became very lonely at the mill, especially with the earthquakes, so Mr. Barltrop went into town to the Anchor Inn, where the Trafalgar Hotel now stands, and slept there. These earthquakes, although they broke many of the bottles in hotels, did not do much other damage - perhaps there was not very much that they could do.
As an interesting aside, despite their rarity in New Zealand in general, windmills had got a specific mention in Nelson province's 1854 Road Bill, and large chunks of this were incorporated into the 1856 Nelson Improvement Act Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XIV, Issue 85, 19 January 1856
16. Penalty for erecting Windmills, Limekilns, &c, in certain cases. - It shall not be lawful for any person to erect, or cause to be erected, within fifty yards of any road or street, any steam-engine or windmill, unless such steam-engine or windmill shall be within some house or other building, or behind some wall or fence, sufficient to screen the same from the road, so that the same may not be dangerous to passengers, horses, or cattle; nor to make any fire for burning or calcining any limestone, bricks, or clay, or the making of coke or charcoal, within twenty-five yards of any road or street, unless the same shall be within some building, or behind some wall or fence sufficient to screen the same from such road; and any person offending against this enactment shall be liable to a penalty for every such offence not exceeding less than £5, and a further penalty, not exceeding Forty Shillings, for every day during which the offence is continued, after notice in writing from the Board for the district in this behalf.The earlier draft bill had had a slightly different clause, combining windmills and sewers together: Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume xiv, Issue 81, 5 January 1856
17. Penalty for making unauthorized Sewers, and building over Sewers, and erecting Windmills, Limekilns, &c., in certain cases. - It shall not be lawful for any person to cause any drain or sewer to communicate with or be emptied into any drain, sewer, or watercourse to be made as aforesaid, nor to cause any building to be erected over such drain, sewer, or watercourse, nor to cause any vault, arch, or cellar to be built or constructed under any street, without the written consent of the said Board first had and obtained; nor to erect, or cause to be erected, within fifty yard of any road or street, any steam engine or windmill, unless such steam engine or windmill shall be within some house or other building, or behind some wall or fence, sufficient to screen the same from the road, so that the same may not be dangerous to passengers, horses, or cattle; nor to make any fire for burning or calcining any limestone, bricks, clay, or the making of coke, or charcoal, within twenty-five yards of any road or street, unless the same shall be within some building, or behind some wall or fence sufficient to screen the same from such road; and any person offending against this enactment shall be liable to a penalty for every such offence not exceeding £10 nor less than £5, and a further penalty, not exceeding Forty Shillings, for every day during which the offence is continued, after notice in writing from the said Board in this behalf: and the said Board may cause any sewer, drain, building, vault, arch, or cellar, erected or constructed contrary to this enactment, to be pulled down or otherwise dealt with as they may think fit, and the expenses incurred by them in so doing shall be repaid to them by the offender, or be recoverable in a summary manner before any Justice of the Peace, as hereinafter provided.
THE WINDMILL.This was followed on the next page by a distant photo including the mill: Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 11 December 1926, Page 20 (Supplement)
From a sketch by E. Harris. The windmill was erected by Dr. Bush to supply power for his flour mill near the Maitai in Trafalgar street.
There is a clearer scan of the sketch when the article was republished a number of years later: Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIV, 4 October 1930, Page 40 (Supplement).VIEW OF NELSON IN THE ’SIXTIES.
Showing Dr. Bush’s windmill in the left middle distance.
The historical supplement was a feature that the paper used multiple times: Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXI, 24 April 1937, Page 11 (Supplement)
EARLY NELSON LANDMARK EARTHQUAKE OF 1855 RECALLED[info] [info] [painting] [info] [photo] [photo] [photo] [painting] [painting] [painting] [photo] [photo] [painting] [painting] [photo]
The earthquake of 1855 still lives in the memory of pioneers. The late Mr Barltrop, of Nile street, was at that time running the windmill which stood on a site near Trafalgar Street Bridge, as shown in the picture. This earthquake commenced at 9 o’clock on a summer’s evening and continued at intervals for several days. Mr Barltrop was living down there among the flax, but it became very lonely at the mill especially with the earthquakes, and Mr Barltrop related that he went into town to the Anchor Inn, and slept there. These earthquakes, although they broke many bottles in the hotels, did not do much other damage; perhaps there was not very much that they could do in those days.
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