Norfolk Mills - Belton Black Mill drainage windmill

Belton
Black Mill
drainage pump
River Waveney

16th May 1989

Belton Black mill was built as a 3 storey red brick tower windpump using common sails turned to wind via a tailpole to power a scoopwheel.

By the 1980s a modern pump had been set up inside the tower and on the outside of the tower a cast iron case was inscribed Thos. Smithdale & Sons Engineers Acle Norfolk AD1973.

August 2023

c.1830: Mill built

1907: Mill rebuilt

c.1947: Mill ceased working with windpower

1973: Thomas Smithdales updated pumping machinery

1989: Very derelict tower without cap; windshaft, canister and wooden clasp-arm brakewheel in situ

2023: Mill preserved with metal cap

If you have any memories, anecdotes or photos please let us know and we may be able to use them to update the site. By all means telephone 07836 675369 or

Nat Grid Ref. TG 48020714

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