Windmill turns up in Nelson Park

POULSBO — The Martinson Cabin at Nelson Park got some company Wednesday afternoon as a windmill spun to its final resting place after years of service.

The history of 30-foot windmill, which was donated by Earl and Norma Hanson, can be traced back to the early days of Little Norway when the main mode of transportation was upon the area’s many waterways.

“My grandfather brought it over from Seattle by ship and took it piece by piece on a rowboat and up the hill,” Norma recalled as Bight of Poulsbo founder Bill Austin and a host of other volunteers placed the windmill on the west side of the cabin.

Growing up, Norma said she remembers the days when the windmill provided water for her grandfather’s farm before other water supplies were available.

“Here everyone can see it and everyone can enjoy it,” she said as Ed Jernigan welded the structure in place. “It makes the park a little more authentic.”

The windmill had been located on Earl and Norma’s property, but when they decided to move, they took steps to ensure it wouldn’t be forgotten.

“All three of our girls didn’t have a place for it, so we decided to donate it to the Bight of Poulsbo,” Norma said.

After climbing the windmill to put the fan in place, Austin said there was still work to be done before it is handed over to the city.

“We’re going to grade it and hopefully, we’ll be able to find a split rail cedar fence to put around it,” he said.

Putting the windmill in place came through a collaboration of volunteers and the city’s parks and recreation department, which paid for the permit, he said.

Andy Millican of Millican Crane Service provided the crane to lift the windmill into place and Fred Hill Materials donated concrete for the base. Will Simpson drew up the plans required to get the permit to make the dream become a reality, Austin said.

“It was a fun job and you can see it from all angles,” he said. “It’s kind of like the icing on the cake.”

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.