Archaeological Dig at the Kibworth Harcourt Post Mill
On the weekend of 15/16 March volunteers from the Hallaton Fieldwork Group spent many hours digging exploratory pits in the ground around Kibworth mill. With the assistance of mill volunteers, they sifted the soil looking for items of historical interest. Although the finds were nearly all modern and comprised pottery, brick/tile and animal bone. They used a metal detector on the trenches and spoil. This produced many nails, modern coins and metal fittings (some clearly from parts of the windmill).
The excavations also revealed a rough surface that was laid either at the same time or slightly later than the construction of the roundhouse. This would have provided a hard surface around the windmill. Perhaps providing solid ground and making it easier not only to walk around the mill and turn the sails, but for farm carts or other vehicles to access the mill and turn round. Notably, the surface is very similar to the current track leading from the main road to the windmill.
This exploratory work was undertaken prior to an application to level the ground around the mill to facilitate the turning of the buck through 360 degrees as was initially intended. This is currently not possible due to the uneven surface of the ground around the mill.
National Mills Weekend
As a reminder the mill will once again be opening for National Mills Weekend on Saturday 10 & Sunday 11 May. Volunteers will show people around inside and outside the mill. This gives visitors the chance to see the inner workings and marks left by the millers over the last 400 years.
Due to space constraints at the mill visitors will be limited to a maximum of six at a time. Tours start on the hour between 10am and 3pm on each day. Due to the steep, open staircases and uneven surfaces, unfortunately the mill is unsuitable for young children or those with mobility issues. Prior booking is essential via the website
Entry is free, but donations are always welcome
Graham Watts
Local Charity wins Multiply Initiative Numeracy Award
