During the 1920s and 1930s, millions of wind energy systems were used on farms and other locations far from utility lines. However, with passage of the Rural Electrification Act in 1939, cheap electricity was brought to rural areas. After that, the use of wind machines dramatically declined. Recently, the rapid rise in fuel prices has led to a resurgence in the use of wind power, especially for producing electricity. This bulletin provides information on: (1) types of wind machines; (2) several applications of the mechanical and electrical power generated by wind machines; (3) storing of electricity produced by wind systems; (4) utility hook-ups; (5) sizing a system; and (6) economic considerations. An annotated list of seven publications dealing with wind energy systems is included, with source and current cost noted. (JN)