There is certainly no shortage of historic places in Rhode Island, as one of the original colonies we have seen an awful lot, good and bad, and us locals are committed to keeping that history alive. Whether it be through monuments, special events, or keeping our historic spots pristine, little Rhodey likes to put its history on proud display. If you are looking for a spot to visit that has been here almost since the founding of the state, Gray’s Grist Mill is well worth a visit.

Gray's Grist Mill is located in Adamsville, Rhode Island.
Gray's Grist Mill/Facebook
But it is ALSO located in Massachusetts!
Gray's Grist Mill/Facebook
Yup, you read that right - the Gray's Grist Mill pond lies directly on the Massachusetts/Rhode Island border, so both states can lay claim to this charming little chunk of history.
This mill is so old that we do not actually know the official date it was built and began production.
Gray's Grist Mill/Facebook
Many say there was a mill in the area since before 1700, but the first evidence of a deed was in 1717.

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Whilst grist mills are very rare and special today, in the times that Gray's was first founded, it was common for every town to have their own grist mill, so that all the locals could have their grain freshly and properly ground.
Gray's Grist Mill/Facebook
Farmers would pay for their crops to be ground by these mills with a percentage of the grain they brought in.
To this day, Gray's operates much like they did over 300 years ago, holding onto a tradition that is very uncommon now.
Gray's Grist Mill/Facebook
Modern mills can turn out in a day what grist mills needed a week to produce, so they became outdated with this new technology.
That old world charm is what makes Gray's such a fun spot to visit. If you book a tour you can see all the equipment they use to grind various grains to make their corn meal and waffle mix.
Gray's Grist Mill/Facebook
And maybe even buy some of your own! Who doesn't love a fresh Johnny cake?
We also recommend adding a little time to admire the grounds that the mill is on. You can gaze at the lovely pond and see some of the old technology that is no longer in use like this water wheel.
Gray's Grist Mill/Facebook

It is so cool that Rhode Island and Massachusetts share a claim to one of New England’s oldest grist mills! This is one of the most historic places in Rhode Island and it is not only fascinating, their products are unbeatably authentic and delicious. The mill is open Tuesday through Sunday from noon to four in the warm months, and you can call 508-636-6075 to hear their Winter hours. You can also call this number to book a tour of the mill to see its inner workings and learn more about its past.

Make sure to check out Gray’s website for more information on the mill, and follow their Facebook page to see where the mill will be vending their products next. Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more fascinating Rhode Island history! 

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Featured Addresses
Gray's Grist Mill, 638 Adamsville Rd, Westport, MA 02790, USA