We recently restored one of the only remaining original dutch-style windmill remaining in the United States. The Prairie Mills Windmill was originally built in 1873 and operated until the mid-1930s. We also operate the Golden Museum which contains artifacts used in Golden Illinois in the 1800s and early 1900s.
The Golden Historical Society began in the mid 1980s to purchase and restore the Prairie Mills windmill. At that time, another town wanted to purchase the mill and move it out of the area. Restoration took nearly 20 years, completing in 2005.
Operating windmill. Museum contains tools, kitchen utensils and appliances, barber and beauty shop equipment, operating popcorn popper, and clothing from the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Besides weekend hours, we conduct an educational program which discusses the lifestyle in Golden in the late 1800s. Included in addition to the windmill is information on the German heritage, schools, religion, home life, and recreation.