STEAM POWERED MILLS

Ohio's Old Mills Today

By Brenda Krekeler

STEAM POWERED MILLS

In the early 1900's steam engines were available and, if a miller had the funds, it was a good investment which allowed him to have a supplemental power source. When the rains came and the rivers swelled, the head of water was gone and the miller had no power to run his mill. The steam engine could be connected to the power train with another set of belts and the mill was back in business.

Steam engines were used to power Lock Two Mill in Auglaize County, Stratton Mill in Belmont County, Aultman Mill in Holmes County and Heabler Mill in Seneca County. Algonquin Mill in Carroll County functions once a year at their Fall Festival where they produce flour and cornmeal.

You can witness firsthand the action of a steam engine at the Isaac Ludwig Mill in Lucas County. It has been restored and is in excellent condition. Their steam engine is used as an alternative source of power when they lose their head that supplies the turbines.