The Kregel Windmill Company began operation as a general manufacturer of agricultural goods in 1879.  It soon evolved to production of windmills and drilling of water wells in the Nebraska City area. In 1903, George Kregel moved his manufacturing operation to the present building. The manufacturing of windmills was curtailed during World War II and the business continued with the repair of existing windmills and pumps. The Kregel Windmill Company closed its doors for the last time in 1991 and stood unaltered until 2014 when the Kregel Windmill Factory Museum concept was formed. 

The building’s uniqueness is that of a time capsule, undisturbed for 23 years, housing manufacturing tools and artifacts from as far back as 1902. Berggren Architects accepted the challenge of preserving the space to the period of significance: 1939.  To preserve the original factory interior and building, a new shell encapsulates the sidewalls and roof. The historical front façade has been restored and remains exposed to the public. New fire sprinklers, HVAC equipment, and an electrical system have been installed in the museum to condition the space and adequately protect the artifacts. The house next door has been equipped with accessible restrooms and renovated to preserve the structure and aid in the museum operations.