Whimsically decorated chairs, homemade raspberry pie, an opportunity to parachute out of a military aircraft, and a chance to auctioneer for a minute are just a few of the items that were up for bid at the charity auction Saturday, November 3 to benefit the Danish Windmill in Elk Horn. Guests enjoyed a Danish-inspired farm-to-table dinner featuring locally sourced foods topped off by a live auction of more than 40 items and 37 silent auction items which had been donated for the event. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go to the current Mill restoration and historic preservation project that has been underway since 2016.

“With the historic millwright and timber guild carpenters in town to build the new cap frame and begin the reconstruction phase, it’s been a crazy few weeks,” said Lisa Steen Riggs, the Windmill’s Manager. “The good news is that it’s finally starting to look like a windmill again. We had hoped it would be completed in time for the Gala, but it won’t be too much longer before its sails are turning in the wind again. We still have to raise about $75,000 to complete Phase II of the project so we are grateful for the generosity of those who donated and purchased items at the Gala. The $26,000 is needed and greatly appreciated!”

Riggs said that cash donations are coming in and proceeds from the 5^th Annual Naughty or Nisse 5k Fun Run from the Mermaid to the Mill on Saturday, November 24 during Julefest will go toward the restoration. “The Danish Windmill is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We accept donations through our secure website and Facebook page. Purchases made in the museum and online stores help support the Windmill as well,” she continued. “We are a participating charity in AmazonSmile and hope people will keep the Mill in mind on Giving Tuesday which is November 27.”

For more information on the Danish Windmill’s restoration project and how you can help, contact the Mill at 712.764.7472 or visit danishwindmill.com.