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"Come join us for a unique experience as we guide you through one of the best preserved 18th century tide mills in the country!
The Van Wyck-Lefferts Tide Mill, which harnessed the tides for power, was the height of technology when it was built by the Van Wyck family in 1795.
Water-powered mills need falling water and Long Island has few streams. But, as explained on the tour, the many bays and coves, with 8 foot tides, were an unfailing source of power. High tide filled the mill pond through the tide gate, and then, at low tide the trapped water was let out to turn the water wheel. The Lefferts mill is unique in that of the scores of tide mills on Long Islands north shore, it is the only one left with its building intact, on its original dam and with its original massive wooden gears. You must see this Long Island treasure!
Thanks to a partnership with the Van Wyck-Lefferts Tide Mill Sanctuary Inc., the Huntington Historical Society is able to offer tours of this historic treasure. The tour begins with a short boat ride from Gold Star Battalion Beach into gorgeous Puppy Cove, past waterfront mansions with sightings of egrets, ospreys, and visiting waterfowl. Your guide will explain the workings of the mill with some related social history, and each tour participant will receive a comprehensive, illustrated booklet."
Huntington Historical Society
