From Mill to Glass

Despite its long history and importance to the local community, Hamlins Mill faced significant challenges that would ultimately lead to its decline. One of the most devastating events in the mill’s history occurred on 17th November 1923 , when the windmill was destroyed by fire . This marked a major turning point, as the original structure — which had stood since 1834 — was lost. However, the story did not end there. In 1924 , the mill was rebuilt , not as a traditional windmill, but as a power mill , at a cost of six hundred pounds. This transition reflected the changing times, as traditional wind-powered milling was gradually being replaced by more modern, mechanised methods. Following its reconstruction, the mill continued to operate for several decades. It remained in use right up until 1967 , maintaining its role in local industry even as older milling practices became less common. After milling operations ceased, the building found a temporary new purpose. It was used as a sack s...

While the history of Hamlins Mill is marked by industry, change, and loss, it is the people behind it — the generations of the Catt family — who truly bring its story to life. One photograph captures this connection perfectly. It shows an older member of the family standing beside a mill building, a quiet but powerful reminder of the continuity of the trade. The caption explains that three generations of Gilbert Catt’s family had been millers at Hailsham , reflecting a long-standing dedication to the craft. At the time the photograph was taken, he was still actively involved in milling, operating a restored mill and continuing the production of stone-ground flour , just as it had been done centuries before. This link between past and present highlights something important — that for the Catt family, milling was not simply a job, but a way of life passed down through generations. A Glimpse into Family Life Another piece of the family’s story appears in a newspaper article titled “Miller...

The story of the Catt family does not end with the loss of Hamlins Mill. Instead, it evolves — transforming from traditional milling into a new form of craftsmanship, while still holding tightly to its roots. Across history, glassmaking has always been closely tied to skill, patience, and tradition. From early alchemists and scientists using glass vessels for experimentation, to the development of refined techniques such as lampworking, the craft has required both precision and artistry. Like milling, it is a practice passed down through generations — shaped by hands, experience, and dedication. Glassmaking, particularly lampworking, has long relied on the ability to manipulate materials under heat, using tools and flame to shape something both functional and beautiful. Even today, despite modern equipment, the craft still depends heavily on the skill of the maker — much like the millers who once relied on wind, machinery, and instinct to produce flour. A New Chapter Begins Today,...