Wind & Water Power Program
The use of wind and water as a source of power has been used for thousands of years. Ancient sailors first harnessed the energy of wind by attaching sails to their boats. Since then, the energy of wind, along with water, has been utilized by nearly every generation and culture. With the advancement of more complex windmills, Medieval Europe thrived economically and agriculturally. Mills powered by water allowed Europe and early America to become the world’s leader in manufacturing, wealth, agriculture, and much more. During the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, wind and water power has and is continuously evolving to provide us today with useful resources and energy.
How the Wind & Water Power Program Relates to Tipton-Haynes
The use of both wind and water power interconnect with John Tipton, Jr. and David Haynes. In 1813, Colonel John Tipton died and his son John Tipton, Jr. inherited the property, present-day Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site. Tipton, Jr. moved his family from Blountville and lived in his father’s cabin until his death in 1831. On August 18, 1832, an inventory was recorded of the items of John Tipton, Jr. that was sold at auction nearly a year after his death. Rudimentary items such as a corner cupboard, dishes, a desk, beds, an axe, ploughs, and even farm animals comprise the inventory list. The fourth highest paid item was for eight dollars and twelve and a half cents and was a windmill. Little is known about the windmill and its use though.
As for David Haynes, he bought the Tipton farm in 1837 and in 1839 gave the property to his oldest son Landon Carter Haynes. David held several occupations, but is best remembered as being an exceptional millwright during the early 1800s. Millwrights then needed to know basic engineering and mathematical skills, along with knowledge of millstone dressing or carving. Several millstones rest upon the property today in honor of David and his occupation.
Students will learn through discussion the history and evolution of wind and water power. Also through discussion, students will learn about how wind and water power relate to John Tipton, Jr. and David Haynes. Students will discover how wind and water power is used today and the benefits in which they provide. After discussion, students will discover and examine the several different millstones of Tipton-Haynes. Students will learn about the different types of stones used, the different dress patterns, the process of grinding, and much more.