135 - Danish Mill

Undoubtedly one of the most recognizable landmarks of Kenmare, North Dakota is the Danish Mill. Located in the Downtown Square, the Danish Mill is iconic to this community and truly a remarkable sight to behold.
The Danish Mill was built in 1902 by a Danish immigrant named Christian Jensen. He came to the United States in 1890 and operated the mill north of Kenmare for thirteen years. The original purpose of the mill was to grind grain into flour using stone to crush the kernels. At its capacity, the mill was producing two hundred sacks a day and served farmers for many miles around. By 1917, the mill was no longer operating.
The Kenmare Association of Commerce purchased the Danish Mill in 1958 and began restoration efforts. In 1965, the mill was relocated to its present site. Painted in traditional red and white, the cone-shaped mill is covered with wooden shingles and capped with a dome capable of rotating with the wind blades, which would have been fitted with canvas sails.
You can explore the Danish Windmill inside and out. The interior was damaged by a fire in early 2019, but it has been mostly restored. Although no longer operational, the Danish Mill is a historic relic showcasing immigrant technology. The mill is the oldest structure in Kenmare and has identified this community for many years. Danish mills have always been unique and are very rare. In fact, there are three remaining in the United States and one of them happens to be the beloved gem of this park.
