The Elphin Windmill is pleased to announce that it is supporting this years Roscommon Lamb Festival, find us on the 'Heritage Tours' page of the Festival website;
The Elphin Windmill is an early 18th Century, fully restored windmill and is the only one in the West of Ireland. It is also reputedly, the oldest windmill in Ireland. It was built in the 1730's, to grind the main arable crops grown in the Elphin area at the time, oats, wheat and barley, into flour and meal for the local population.
The Mill was in working order for about 100 years, before being abandoned and left to decay. By 1837 and the publication of the first Ordnance Survey map of Ireland, Elphin Windmill is shown as being dis-used and a ruin.
In 1992, the derelict tower and site was donated to Elphin Area Community Enterprise Ltd, (a local community group) by Thomas J. O'Beirne and a project was undertaken to raise the funds to renovate and restore the Mill to its former glory under a F.A.S. Community Youth Training Scheme.
The Windmill was officially re-opened to the public on 22nd June, 1996 by International Hollywood Star, Gabriel Byrne.
Lamb Festival Opening Times for the Windmill, (including guided tours):
Wednesday to Friday, 29th. 30th April & 1st May: 11am to 3pm.
Saturday and Sunday, 2nd & 3rd May, 2015, guided tours at 12 noon; 1pm; 2pm & 3pm.
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