A Sprig from the Vine

William Vine. Painted by his son-in-law, Henry Bodle, c.1830.

Reproduced by kind permission of Karen and Andrew Belton

William Vine in the doorway of Vine's Mill. Painted by his son-in-law, Henry Bodle, 1843

Reproduced by kind permission of Karen and Andrew Belton

Letter from William Vine to his son-in-law John

Reproduced by kind permission of Karen and Andrew Belton

Letters of a Georgian windmill owner, c 1825-1836

From the Letter in the Attic project

William Vine bought the windmill in Clifton Hill, Brighton on 18th August, 1818. The mill became known as 'Vine's Mill' and was located in the area which eventually became the car park of the Royal Alexandra Hospital. The millworkers' cottages were in Vine's Place.

The papers contributed to Letter in the Attic consist mainly of letters between William Vine and his family. William Vine was clearly a very religious man and the letters reflect this.

A sprig from the Vine
In 1835, William's daughter, Rhoda, gave birth to a grandson. One of the letters sends a rather hastily-written expression of relief and affection to his son-in-law:

Dear Son

I received your Letter last Friday Morning - bringing the pleasing intelligence of another sprig from the branch of the Vine - and I hope it will prove to be a branch of the true and living Vine. We were all extremely glad to hear that Rhoda was doing well, for we felt much concerned and were very anxious to hear from her. Rhoda may expect her Mother the beginning of next week - if the Lord will. Excuse my not writing more as Mr & Mrs Keeble are just going - with our kind love to you and Dear Rhoda - and all your Family - and remain your Affectionate Father

Wm Vine