The area around Parys Mountain has been mined for copper for several centuries. A substantial source of copper ore was discovered in 1768 and the site quickly developed into the world's largest copper mine. As the mine progressed, its shafts were sunk further into the ground and the need for the removal of water increased. This was initially done by hand and later by steam engine. In order to save money on the coal required to power the engines, the Parys Mountain Windmill was constructed in 1878, around the mine, to replace the engines. The windmill was the last tower mill built in Wales. It was also used to remove ore from the shafts and lift machinery in and out for miners.