Ford Mill, Newport

Map of Ford Mill, Newport - 1907

Ford watermill stood at the tidal head of the Medina River at the bottom of today’s Pyle Street, Newport, with the mill pond stretching back to Pan Mill. The mill was one of the oldest mills in the Newport Borough being mentioned in the charter of Isabel de Fortibus.

In 1830, Mr. Urry, a Newport millwright, constructed a wheel and machine in Ford Mill for the purpose of grinding corn at high water and spring tides. It was reported that in consequence of these changes, the mill was capable of grinding four more loads of wheat per day than previously.

In 1839 Messrs. Tucker and Mew announced an auction on behalf of the Trustees of the late Miss Harvey and described Ford Mill as:

The Mill is furnished with two large water wheels and gear, driving four pair of stones, and doing a very extensive Flour and Corn trade. Attached is an excellent Bake-house and near are extensive Piggeries, Cart sheds, Stables, and Chaise house.

In 1894 Ford Mill was destroyed by fire - the loss estimated as £4000, the owner, Mr. W. Mansbridge, was insured. The report includes a reference to a three-floor mill containing 'a practically new three-sack  roller plant'.

Ford Mill was rebuilt and, in a notice of sale, was described as being substantially built of brick with five floors and fitted with modern rolling machinery with a 30 horse-power steam engine.

In 1962 the mill was acquired by the Isle of Wight County Council and demolished to make way for road improvements and flood prevention measures.