MILL CONSTRUCTION

Ohio's Old Mills Today

By Brenda Krekeler

MILL CONSTRUCTION

There are a few mills in Ohio that are simply outstanding just because of their construction.

The Stratton Mill in Belmont County is spectacular! It was built with rubble stone that was excavated when a local railroad tunnel was constructed. The stones used in the building range in color from pink to red and gray to black. The stone work and the material used make the Stratton Mill unique.

Shuster's Mill in Brown County is deserted and all of the windows are gone but the structure of the building is still beautiful. The building is half stone and half brick and the combination is striking.

Lane's Mill in Butler County is also vacant but it is locked and secured. It is 2.5 stories of cut limestone. It is quite pretty but the back wall has some large cracks, which I think has destroyed the integrity of the building. I don't know how much longer it will stand. Maybe it will surprise me. Last visited 7-6-98 and it's character had changed. It is overgrown with brush trees.

The Hambleton Mill in Columbiana County has been restored and is one the most impressive mills standing in Ohio today. It is constructed of large cut sandstone. Standing 2.5 stories tall, it is vacant. There are no floors or internal walls, just the shell remains. It is beautiful just the same.

If you want to be wowed by the most spectacular ruins in Ohio today don't miss Beiber Mill in Delaware County and Phoenix Mill in Huron County. Each are independently exquisite. Although in a state of ruins, Beiber Mill and Phoenix Mill will show you architecture of stone construction that will not be witnessed anywhere else in the United States. You will not be disappointed!