Valley Drive Loop | Mexican Hat

Information

Landmark: Valley Drive Loop
City: Mexican Hat
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America

Valley Drive Loop, Mexican Hat, USA Utah, North America

Boyd's Windmill is a historic structure located in Middletown, Rhode Island, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The windmill is constructed from fieldstone, with a conical roof. Its exterior walls are approximately 25 feet in diameter at the base and taper towards the top. The structure stands roughly 30 feet tall. It exhibits characteristics of a traditional smock mill design.

Location & Access Logistics

Boyd's Windmill is situated at 1200 Aquidneck Avenue in Middletown, RI. It is approximately 3 miles southeast of downtown Newport. Parking is available on-site in a designated gravel lot. Access is via Aquidneck Avenue, a paved public road. No public transportation directly serves the windmill; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The windmill was constructed in 1810 by Captain William Tallman. Its original purpose was to grind grain for local farmers. It is a man-made structure, representing early industrial technology in the region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the exterior architecture of the windmill. Interpretive signage provides information on its history and operation. The surrounding grounds offer space for passive recreation.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not available at the windmill site. There is limited natural shade provided by surrounding trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located on-site; nearest options are in Middletown or Newport.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is late afternoon, when the sun angle provides distinct shadows on the stone structure. The months of May through October offer the most favorable weather conditions for visiting.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that during its operational years, the windmill's sails could be seen from ships approaching Newport Harbor, serving as a navigational landmark.