Bealick Mill (Corn)

On N bank of Laney River, near its confluence with Sullane River. Indicated on 1842 OS 6-inch map as 'Bealick Mills', with millrace approaching from E, which also powered a tuck mill (no longer surviving) c. 400m to E. By 1901 OS 6-inch map shows millrace rerouted, approaching 'Bealick Mill (Corn)' from N. Four-storey, 3-phase rectangular structure (14m NE-SW; 20m SE-NW), triple-gable-ended on NE and SW elevations, SE elevation of 4 bays. Roof originally half-hipped but now gabled with asbestos sheeting; internally the rooms are divided by cast-iron columns with maker's name: 'Perrotts Cork', cast on them. Millpond to NE; wheel-pit along NE elevation houses cast-iron suspension wheel (diam. 6.37m; Wth 3.28m) with inscription 'McSwiney' cast on shrouding; pinion wheel transfers power into mill. Access to interior not gained. Rynne's (1993b) report of interior fittings describes pinion-wheel powered cast-iron pit-wheel (diam. 3.05m) within, which turned two auxiliary shafts powering at least two pairs of millstones. Two turbines in NE side of mill; the one still in use is a downward axial flow turbine which actuates a generator. Other turbine (not visible) disused, upper shaft geared to transfer power to mill machinery which operated on a belt and pulley system; also powered a generator installed 1898 which provided Macroom with electric light (Mould 1991, 163). Rynne (ibid.) suggests surviving machinery dates to 1887-97. Saw mills were installed in 1903-11 at SE end of mill and ultimately became mill's primary function. Possible grain drying kiln to NW but later rebuilt/extended to form NW part of mill. Provided power for 20th-century Macroom Iron Foundry to N. Mills undergoing restoration at present (1995).