Morgan Lewis Windmill: A Glimpse into Barbados's Sugar Heritage

Morgan Lewis Windmill, perched atop a hill in the parish of St. Andrew, offers a captivating journey into Barbados's sugar-producing past. This historic landmark is the largest and most complete sugar windmill in the Caribbean, a testament to the island's once-thriving sugar industry. Built in 1727, the windmill harnessed the power of the wind to crush sugarcane, extracting the juice that would be processed into sugar. It remained operational until 1947, marking it as the last working sugar mill in Barbados. In 1962, the mill was entrusted to the Barbados National Trust, ensuring its preservation as a museum and a symbol of the island's heritage. Visitors can explore the inner workings of the mill, examining the original machinery and equipment used in the sugar-making process. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the mill's history, the mechanics of sugar production, and the lives of those who worked there. The climb to the top of the mill rewards visitors with panoramic views of the rugged east coast and the surrounding countryside. The windmill's construction is a marvel in itself. Its walls are made of boulders held together by a mixture of egg whites and coral dust, a technique used due to the lack of cement at the time. This unique method adds to the mill's historical charm and provides a tangible link to the past. During the crop season, from February to July, the mill's sails are occasionally put in place, and it operates one Sunday a month, grinding cane and producing cane juice. This provides a glimpse into the traditional sugar-making process and a taste of freshly crushed cane juice. The Grind Artisan Cafe, located near the windmill, offers refreshments and stunning views of the east coast.