A historic British residence, Rossett Mill, which once captivated the artistic eye of J.M.W. Turner, is now available for acquisition at an asking price of £1.5 million. This Grade II-listed property in Wrexham, UK, dating back to 1588, served as the muse for Turner’s notable 1795 artwork, 'Marford Mill.' Its current proprietors, Brendan and Celia Wilson, undertook an extensive two-year renovation to transform the dilapidated structure into a four-bedroom dwelling, carefully balancing modern amenities with the preservation of its profound historical character.
The Wilsons' journey with Rossett Mill began seventeen years ago when they discovered the watermill in a state of disrepair, boarded up and facing demolition. A newspaper advertisement sparked their initial interest, which was solidified by a subsequent visit to the site. Brendan Wilson recounted their immediate connection to the property, stating, "We knew within five minutes that we wanted to buy it." They acquired the estate for £660,000 and invested an additional £250,000 into its meticulous restoration, converting the crumbling mill into a comfortable home while ensuring its historical elements remained intact.
The renovation efforts involved sourcing reclaimed oak beams from a French barn to maintain the mill's original aesthetic, seamlessly integrating contemporary conveniences like central heating and a modern kitchen. Brendan noted that the changing seasons at the mill provided continuous delight, from cozy winters by the fireplace to idyllic summers spent picnicking by the shallow River Alyn, which flows beneath the mill wheel and through the surrounding landscape.
Remarkably, the mill's waterwheel remains operational. This undershot wheel, propelled by the river's current, continues to grind corn, and the property's ancient deeds grant the owner the right to draw water for the machinery. Brendan, through self-study, mastered the mill's operation, turning a once daunting task into a smoothly functioning system that he runs several times annually.
Turner's masterpiece, 'Marford Mill' (1795), originated during one of his excursions through Wales. According to Nicola Moorby, a curator specializing in historic British art, Turner was often drawn to such locations for their visual charm and the rich social narratives they embodied. His engagement with Welsh subjects played a crucial role in the development of his distinctive technical ambition and philosophical depth, frequently highlighting the enduring resilience of nature against the transient nature of human existence.
After fifteen years of stewardship, the Wilsons are selling Rossett Mill to relocate closer to their children. Celia Wilson expressed their sorrow in leaving, but acknowledged, "it's time." Brendan aptly summarized their experience, stating, "There is history in every corner of this building. We just happened to be the first people to live in it."