Dutch Windmill

The Dutch Windmill was built in 1902 to harness the power of the pacific winds to pump fresh water from well’s to irrigate the Golden Gate Park. Prior to the construction of the windmill the city of San Francisco was provided water by the Spring Valley Water Company at exorbitant rates which only provided enough water for 75 acres.

Though the exterior looks in good condition today, this once majestic relic of the past has once again fallen victim to decay and neglect which are undermining the integrity of the windmill. On this particular day the lush lawn below it provided a great spot for a picnic and frisbee which is what many locals clearly enjoyed doing.

I found a great website documenting the history of the Dutch Windmill. The website is History  of San Francisco's Dutch Windmill.