The Big Mill from Sapello

The Big Mill from Sapello, El Rancho de las Golondrinas, New Mexico

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The Big Mill from Sapello

The largest mill at the living history museum of El Rancho de las Golondrinas was originally built and used by the Pacheco family in Sapello, New Mexico.  Its machinery, which was manufactured in Buffalo, New York, was shipped to New Mexico by railroad in the 1880s.  The miller ground flour for the soldiers at Fort Union until its closure in 1891.

The mill was one of the buildings purchased by the Paloheimos from the surrounding rural area to replace those that had disappeared or to illustrate specific activities of a Spanish rancho.   It began operating at Las Golondrinas when the living museum was first opened to the public in 1972.

The Big Mill from Sapello, El Rancho de las Golondrinas, New Mexico

–  Click on the image to enlarge or purchase  –

In 1991 a new, handmade oak wheel was constructed to replace the old, rotting pine wheel.  Flumes and aqueducts bring water to turn the wheel from springs in the surrounding hills.  If you are lucky enough to visit Las Golondrinas on festival days you will be able to see the mill grinding wheat into flour.

Summary

Article Name

The Big Mill from Sapello

Description

The largest mill at El Rancho de las Golondrinas, commonly known as the big mill, was originally located in Sapello, New Mexico

Author

Mark Summerfield

Publisher Name

Mark Summerfield

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