The restoration of a 19th-century cider mill, a project led by carpenter Ned Bott, has brought a piece of history back to life. This mill, once a groundbreaking innovation in cider-making, has been meticulously rebuilt to its original glory. The process was no easy feat, requiring Bott to rely on his creativity and resourcefulness due to the lack of detailed instructions or images of such an old machine. The result is a functional masterpiece, ready to be put to use once again.
The first apple crush in over a century was a triumph, attracting a crowd to the Braidwood Museum and Heritage Centre. This event marked the beginning of a new chapter for the mill, which will now be used regularly. Bott's dedication to making it functional, rather than just a museum piece, is a testament to his craftsmanship and passion for history.
The mill's history is deeply intertwined with the local cider-making tradition. Gary Sully, a local cider maker, explains that this type of mill, known as an Ingenio mill, revolutionized the industry when it was invented in the 17th century. It introduced a crucial innovation: a gap in the rollers that allowed pips and stalks to pass through, preventing the bitter taste and rough texture caused by arsenic-rich pips.
The Ingenio mill's impact on cider-making cannot be overstated. It marked a significant improvement in the quality and refinement of the drink. The mill's restoration is not just about bringing an old machine back to life; it's about preserving a piece of history and a tradition that has shaped the local culture.
Bott's journey with the cider mill is a fascinating one. During the COVID lockdown, he built his own cider mill from scratch, showcasing his ingenuity. This experience, combined with his work on the restored mill, has given him a deep understanding of the craft. He now plans to fix an apple press from the early 1900s, capable of pressing one tonne or more, which will further enhance the cider-making process.
The future looks bright for the cider mill and the local cider-making tradition. With plans to produce cider using apples grown on the property where the mill was kept, the community is embracing its historical roots. The dream of creating the same cider as the one made in the 19th century, using the same equipment, is within reach. This restoration project not only brings a piece of history back to life but also inspires a new generation to appreciate and continue the rich tradition of cider-making.
