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 Old Mill at Pigeon Forge, TN Posted by:  vhasler
N 35° 47.320 W 083° 33.237
17S E 269181 N 3963518
The "Old Mill" is still functional in grinding corn during summer months for sale to tourists and school groups year 'round.
Waymark Code: WM5MB2
Location: Tennessee, United States
Date Posted: 01/21/2009
Views: 31
From the mill's website ( Link): "In the early 1800's, a water-powered gristmill on the banks of the Little Pigeon River became one of the main hubs of activity in the small mountain community of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. In those days, the mill faithfully produced the meals and flours that were crucial for the day-to-day existence of the Smokies' early settlers. In fact, The Old Mill even furnished electricity for the town until 1935.
One of The Old Mill's most distinctive features is the giant water wheel that harnesses the flow of the Little Pigeon River. Inside the structure, an antiquated yet reliable system of shafts, belts, and pulleys still gets the job done, working to turn the 4600-pound stones and grain elevators.
Weighing one ton each, the massive flint granite stones, called French Buhrs, are only the second set ever used in The Old Mill's 175-year history. When they're in action, the stones convert grain into about 1000 pounds of product each day, six days a week. Resident millers then hand-fill, weigh and tie each bag of stone ground grain."
Now an active tourist attraction. It is overshadowed by the larger restaurant building, so don't be confused what you are seeking. Mill tours are available only in the summer ($3 for adults, $1.50 for children), but ground meal is sold year around.
Current Status: Still In Use
Current Use: Corn mill and tourist attraction
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