Windmill

How did windmills help homesteaders?

Windmills were used to bring water to the surface, where it could then be used to irrigate crops. A windmill could pump water from a depth of up to 30 feet.

When did homesteaders begin using windmills?

A 'self-governing' windmill was invented in 1854. Steel blades were added in 1870.

Who invented the windmill used by homesteaders?

Daniel Halladay invented the windmill, or wind-pump, which brought water to the surface.

What problems were there with the windmill used by the homesteaders?

If the water was more than 30 feet below the surface, it could not be pumped. Until the steel blades were added, the windmills needed frequent oiling and often broke.

How had windmills developed by the 1880s?

By the 1880s, many problems with the windmills/wind-pumps had been solved. They were made completely of metal and only needed oiling once a year. They were stronger and able to pump more water from deeper in the ground.