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Fischer Windmill Historic Site: A Dutch Masterpiece in Illinois

Discover a piece of Dutch heritage in Illinois at the Fischer Windmill, a beautifully preserved historic landmark in Elmhurst.

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The Fischer Windmill Historic Site in Elmhurst, Illinois, is a beautifully preserved windmill dating back to the mid-19th century. This Dutch-style smock mill, once used for grinding grain, stands as a testament to the area's agricultural heritage and the ingenuity of early settlers. Though the mill is currently closed to the public, visitors can still appreciate its unique architecture and picturesque surroundings within the Mount Emblem Cemetery.

A brief summary to Fischer Windmill Historic Site

  • 520 E Grand Ave, Elmhurst, Illinois, 60126, US

Local tips

  • While the windmill interior is closed, take a stroll around the grounds of Mount Emblem Cemetery to appreciate the landscaping and serene atmosphere.
  • Visit during the spring or summer to see the gardens in full bloom and enhance your visit with a picnic.
  • Check out the nearby Graue Mill, another historic mill with connections to the Fischer Windmill's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Grand Avenue and County Line Road, walk east on Grand Avenue. The Fischer Windmill will be on your right-hand side within the Mount Emblem Cemetery grounds. There is no fee to enter the cemetery grounds to view the windmill.

  • Driving

    From the intersection of Route 83 and North Avenue in Elmhurst, take North Avenue East for about 1 mile. Turn left onto E Grand Ave. Continue for approximately 0.5 miles, and you will see the Fischer Windmill Historic Site on your right at 520 E Grand Ave. Free street parking is available nearby on Grand Avenue.

  • Public Transport

    The Fischer Windmill is accessible via public transportation. Check local transit schedules for bus routes that stop near the intersection of Grand Avenue and County Line Road. From there, walk east on Grand Avenue to the Mount Emblem Cemetery. The windmill is located within the cemetery grounds. Bus fares typically range from $2.00 - $3.00.

Unlock the Best of Fischer Windmill Historic Site

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Discover more about Fischer Windmill Historic Site

The Fischer Windmill Historic Site offers a glimpse into Illinois's rich agricultural past. Located within the grounds of Mount Emblem Cemetery in Elmhurst, this historic landmark is a well-preserved example of a Dutch smock windmill. Construction on the mill began in 1865 by Henry Frederick Fischer, who acquired the land from his father. Interestingly, Fischer's brothers-in-law also built the Graue Mill, further connecting this site to the region's milling history. The windmill's design is based on prefabricated parts shipped from the Netherlands, showcasing the influence of Dutch engineering and architecture. Local farmers and Dutch millwrights, including Christian Heidemann, helped assemble the mill. The hand-crafted structure features cypress beams, hickory and white oak gears, and once had white pine sails spanning 74 feet. The mill was technologically advanced for its time, boasting grain elevators and an auxiliary drive system. For many years, the mill served the community by grinding wheat and corn. In 1925, the Mount Emblem Cemetery Association acquired the land, preserving the windmill as a historic icon. Although the mill is no longer operational and closed to the public, visitors can still admire its exterior and the surrounding landscape. The cemetery grounds, with Lake Emblem, evergreens, and lilac bushes, provide a tranquil setting for reflection.

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