Brixton Windmill was built in 1816, and worked by mill until 1817. Leased by by John Ashby in 1863.The Ashby family operated the mill producing stone-ground wholemeal flour. It is around this time it became known as Ashby Mill.
In 1902, when the lease on the mill expired, a steam engine was fitted to power it. This was later replaced by a gas engine. The mill was finally closed down in 1934.
It was originally painted with tar to give protection against the weather - hence the black colour of the brickwork. The only original feature remaining is the cast iron windshaft, the sails and machinery having been replaced after a propsal for it to be demolished in the 1946 had been rejected.
In 1951, it was listed as a Grade II building, and remains on English Heritage's 'Buildings at Risk' register.
The Windmill was handed over to Lambeth Council in 1971. At present, besides grassed open space and trees, Windmill Gardens has a children's playground and a One O'Clock Club.
In April 2003 "friends of Windmill gardens" was formed with the aim to restore the mill and surrounding area as a public amenity. September the following year saw an archaeological dig organised with the Museum of London and a generous grant donated from Lambeth Council. An application for a grant from the Heritage Lottery fund as also been submitted.
Friends of Brixton Gardens
