The Windmill was built in 1931 by Donald Holland, in whose honor the “Hollander” New York Steak is named. Mr. Holland’s dream was to own and operate a restaurant. He envisioned, designed and built the little Windmill shaped building with monies borrowed from his father. Unfortunately Mr. Holland business partner absconded with the funds necessary to complete the building. Mr. Holland was never able to open his restaurant and is said to never have eaten there after it was opened.

In its early years, The Windmill was a typical “road house” of its time as it was on the northwest fringe of Wenatchee. It was said to have been frequented by counterfeiters and legend has it that the upstairs room was a meeting place for bootleggers. The Windmill had gained a “late night” reputation.

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