Aquebogue Windmill

The Aquebogue windmill in Riverhead, New York is a historically accurate Replica built from plans of the 'Pantigo" smock mill. Architect Don Feiler did preliminary scketches for owner Bob Bocksel and the windmill went up in 2008. The windmill was a labor of love for Bocksel, whom after completing renovations to his circa 1865 farmhouse decided to build the windmill, however, in May 2022, high winds caused the sails to lock onto a nearby Mulberry tree and it was damaged.
History
The original tenant, Luther Moore, built the farmhouse which was passed down to Karen Bocksel, his Great-great-great-granddaughter. During the framing, the Bocksel's son Brad dug up colonial era coins when the base was being installed by family friend Tim Grey; whom laid a foundation of Long Island Fieldstone. The Spanish era coins (dated 1781 and 1777 with center holes ) were in common use during the colonial period and clay pipes from colonial times were also found buried on the site. Local Brentwood carpenter Tom Bader framed the tower, eventually topping out at 4 stories with openings on the 2nd and third for windows. The 2nd floor windows fronted on the four points of the compass.
Since the tower exceeded the height for building codes, a variance was needed to inspect and there was no shortage of administrative hurdles and code compliance activities.
During construction Bocksel was injured by a kickback from a circular saw that needed 31 stitches and also suffered a broken wrist.
Restoration
In 2022, the windmill was damaged by a strong windstorm. Bocksel recounted how he noticed the encroaching Mulberry which he trimmed annually but did not anticipate the windstorm. As a result, the sails caught in the arms of the tree and was damaged severely. It seems that the stock, which is the large arm connecting the sails, got stuck in the tree and ended up cracking. It was quite an unexpected and unfortunate event.
Within just two days, it seems that the situation worsened as one of the sails cracked and fell. That was quite concerning for the integrity of the windmill.
Additionally, the lattice, which is the grid to which the sails are lashed with custom-fabricated steel and iron brackets, also suffered damage. This lattice plays an essential role in supporting and stabilizing the sails, so any damage to it will certainly impact the windmill's functionality.
In summary, it seemed like the windmill experienced a broken arm due to the stock cracking, a fallen sail, and damage to the lattice. The sails were damaged, and the latticework was cracked. Bocksel was determined to repair the windmill and restore it to its former glory.
Bocksel contacted Dick Baxter, a millwright who had worked on windmills on the South Fork. Baxter was too busy to take on the job, so Bocksel was faced with the daunting task of repairing the windmill himself.
Bocksel did some research and learned that Jim Kricker, who had worked on the Sylvester Manor windmill on Shelter Island, was a skilled millwright. Bocksel contacted Kricker, but it turned out Mr. Kricker was retiring, but he had a recommendation for someone who could potentially take on the project. He mentioned an associate named Amy Boyce, who might be interested. After about three weeks, Mr. Bocksel received a call from Boyce with some news.
As it turns out, Sylvester Manor, a nonprofit organization focused on historic preservation, happened to have three replacement sails that had been sitting unused in a barn since the 1950s. Since these sails were not needed by Sylvester Manor, they could potentially be used for the windmill project. In June, the three sails, which play a crucial role in catching the wind and propelling the windmill, were obtained. To ensure they fit the Aquebogue windmill, the services of Arnold Golz from Old Wood in Mattituck were enlisted. Golz was tasked with re-configuring the three sails and fabricating an additional sail from scratch.
In addition to the sail work, efforts are underway to address other parts of the windmill that require attention. This comprehensive approach should ensure that all aspects of the windmill's restoration were being taken care of.
This unexpected discovery of the unused sails were a significant step towards restoring the windmill.
Kricker and Bocksel worked together to repair the windmill. They replaced the damaged sails and latticework, and they also made some improvements to the windmill's structure. The main shaft was wrapped in sheet metal to prevent warping.
This time around, a Maple that stood too close to the windmill was also taken down.
Moore house
The location has become a local photo venue and the house is rented as a North Fork wedding locale and event space.
The Aquebogue windmill is a reminder of the past, and its restoration is a testament to the hard work and determination of Bob Bocksel and the people who helped him.

Main Menu

See Also

Main Menu