Old wind mill at Onsemeulen, Durbanville, Cape Town

Jacobus Johannes Uys received 2 morgen ground in 1801 when Durbanville was still known as Uitspanning of Pampoenkraal. As this smallholding was too small for farming he acquired an additional 36 morgen in 1812. The smallholding was known as Johannesfontein and presumably named after the owner. Johannes Uys was the field-cornet for Tijgerberg in 1809 and was responsible for collecting taxes.

The first windmills were erected along the Liesbeek- and Swart rivers. The growing demand for flour led to the establishment of various mills such as Onze Molen. This mill was built around 1840 on the original land belonging to Uys and was probably built by him. The mill was used as a windmill till early in the 20th century. The roof, vanes and mechanisms were later removed. Thereafter, according to tradition, it served as a horse driven mill and workers hut. The mill was later named Ode Molen.

In 1984 the Natal building society had the windmill restored. This monument has contributed to the founding of Durbanville and its provision of services to the agricultural community of the Tygerberg.

Durbanville Heritage Society

Wow thanks @nmwalters for that interesting info!