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Frank’s models of mill machinery
As a teacher, Frank was always aware of the need to explain how things work. His woodwork skills enabled him to make a number of models, now at the Weald and Downland Open Air Museum. These took the form of robust demonstration models with working parts.
Several models of complete mills, made by Frank, are on display at specific mills in Sussex. They are important tools in demonstrating to visitors how a mill is constructed, how the various components fit together, as well as how each piece of machinery is fitted carefully into a small space. Frank's efforts to help preserve these mills for the benefit fo future generations are justified by the continuing popularity of mills as visitor attractions.
Frank’s models of mill machinery: gallery
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Model showing three designs of waterwheelWooden model made by Frank Gregory, approximate dimensions 300mm L x 200mm H x 45mm D, showing the three main types of vertical waterwheel: Overshot, breastshot and undershot. The model has working parts and appears to have been designed for use as a teaching aid. -
Metal model of Pelton waterwheelSmall demonstration model of Pelton wheel set inside cast-aluminum case with perspex window. Approximate dimensions 40mm deep x 150mm x 150mm. Metal water feed tube on one side -
View of exterior of watermill model showing wheelsScale model, made by Frank Gregory, of part of a watermill, approximately 200mm high x 300mm x 300mm. The photo shows the 'exterior' of the model with a clasp-arm waterwheel. In front are the dismantled parts of a second waterwheel. -
View of interior of watermill modelScale model, made by Frank Gregory, of part of a watermill, approximately 200mm high x 300mm x 300mm. The photo shows the 'interior' of the model with its wooden hurst frame enclosing the principal gearing and drive to two pairs of millstones. The sets of tentering gear to the millstones are of different designs: on the left, the brayer is controlled by a lever ('lighter staff') and on the right it is controlled by a hand wheel. -
Frank's garden of mill modelsAt home in Brighton c1960, Frank is photographed for the 'Evening Argus' in his garden, showing the windmill and watermill models he has made. -
Frank and post mill modelThis fine model of a post mill, based on Nutley mill, is displayed at the milling museum at Polegate Windmill near Eastbourne.
