It's the east Leeds landmark with a tall tale linked to its past. The Windmill on Mill Green in Seacroft was used for grinding corn until the beginning of the 1900s. A local story tells of William Chippendale who had moved to the mill from Yeadon. In 1842 he allegedly stood on his head at the top of the mill to demonstrate his good health. It was his 80th birthday! The photo of the mill, which today forms the centre of Stakis Windmill Hotel, was take in the 1940s and is one of 12 images charting a decade of memories around the suburb. The images are published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service. They also run heritage blog The Secret Library Leeds, which provides a behind the scenes look at the Central Library and highlights from its special collections, including rare books hidden away in the stacks. READ MORE: 18 super photos take you back to Seacroft in the 1960s LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
1. Seacroft in the 1940s
The old windmill at Seacroft, seen from north in March 1949. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
2. Seacroft in the 1940s
The Old Smithy on the north east side of York Road, handcarts in yard to right of building, a man is standing outside. Just behind the Smithy is a half-timbered building with large trees on either side. Pictured in October 1949. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
3. Seacroft in the 1940s
The old Windmill and farm buildings pictured in March 1949. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
4. Seacroft in the 1940s
The Old Smithy looking along York Road on yhe north east side Side wheels and other materials piled up in the yard to one side. A notice on the side wall advertises rustic poles for sale, next to that is a poster for the Regal cinema showing the Accused and a Yankee in King Arthurs court. Pictured in October 1949. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
5. Seacroft in the 1940s
The Leeds coat of arms with "a safety city" sign underneath at the Leeds Boundary at Seacroft. Pictured in August 1949. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
6. Seacroft in the 1940s
The damaged roof of outside toilets in Backhouse Yard in August 1942. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net