These 9 Arkansas Mills Will Transport You To A Simpler Time
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Carol Ann Carson
Author
Arkansas is brimming with so many beautiful places, both natural and human-made. Arkansans have a knack for creating spaces, from today’s mills or even whole towns, that can transport folks to a worry-free state of mind. No matter if they’re a thriving business or simply tranquil historic site, these mills hearken back to a simpler time.
This is probably the first mill that comes to mind for any Arkansan. It's the Old Mill at T.R. Pugh Memorial Park. This iconic attraction was originally used in the opening credits of Gone With The Wind. It's located at 3800 Lakeshore Dr., North Little Rock, AR 72116.
The War Eagle Mill may have been rebuilt a few times (four actually) over the years but its the longest running mill in Arkansas. It was originally built in 1832. Today the mill still processes flour and cornmeal. You can also shop, tour, and even eat at the mill's Bean Palace. It's located at 11045 War Eagle Rd., Rogers, AR 72756.
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This is all that remains of the Pyeatte-Moore Mill (also known as the Moore-Buchanan Mill) residing in Cane Hill. The mill was built in the 1830s and was used for producing flour and cornmeal, sawing logs, and carding wool until the 1930s. The mill is on the National Register of Historic Places and restoration attempts are slowly making way.
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Only the foundation remains but the history of the Van Winkle's Mill is well documented. It was used predominately for the Confederates during the Civil War. The mill cut the logs used for the soldier's housing, grind corn for their food, and used as a makeshift hospital for their wounded. The mill was burnt down in 1863 but Van Winkle came back to the area to rebuild the mill to help restore a war-worn area by cutting lumber. Van Winkle's homestead and mill can be viewed at Hobbs State Park which is at 20201 AR-12, Hindsville, AR 72738.
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The Boxley Mill at the Buffalo National River is occasionally open for seasonal tours. The grist mill was in operation from 1870 until the 1950s. Preservation efforts are currently being made. The park is located at 170 Ranger Rd., St Joe, AR 72675.
If you like a snippet of history about this mill, you can watch this video tour.
If you like a snippet of history about this mill, you can watch this video tour.
The Spring Mill is the oldest original grist mil in the state. It's withstood the test of time since 1867. None of the original components have been replaced, included the imported French millstones. It can be viewed at 4320 N Central Ave., Batesville, AR 72501.
This mill nestled in the woods is actually one of the original structures of Dogpatch USA. It was one of the many buildings that formed the comic strip-themed Li'l Abner amusement park that closed in 1993. The abandoned theme park is currently under major renovations. The park is not open yet but is located in Marble Falls.
The ruins of the Mitchell Mill can be found downstream of Blanchard Springs. Originally it was the site of John Blanchard's mill but the Mitchell replaced it in the 1930s. Now its an otherworldly treasure that can be spotted during hiking. Blanchard Springs is located at 704 Blanchard Springs Rd., Fifty-Six, AR 72533.
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The Johnson Mill is the longest running business in the entire state. It was first registered as a tax-paying business in 1835. The historic building has been refurbished with all the latest amenities and can be booked fir your next NWA excursion. It's located at 3906 Johnson Mill Blvd., Springdale, AR 72762.
What was your favorite mill we visited today? Is there another one hiding in the state that deserves a shout out? Share with us in the comments below!
If you’d like to visit a mill that’s still in operation, you should have a drink at Arkansas’ only cider mill.
If you’d like more photo-based meditation material, take a look at these charming covered bridges scattered around the state.
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