Ohio's Old Mills Today
By Brenda Krekeler

 

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Hopkins Old Water Mill

The original mill at this site was constructed in 1804 by Col. John Garrett. The present mill building was constructed on Garrett's original foundation made of whole tree trunks. These tree trunks can still be seen in the basement level. John Vanderslice owned the mill in 1940 when the structure suffered severe damage from fire. Robert C. Hopkins acquired the mill in 1943. Ultimately, Mrs. Bruce Ginther, Hopkins' daughter, became owner of the mill. In 1972, The Tushar Family bought the mill. Brothers Phil and Mike and their father Charles embarked on the restoration of Hopkins Old Water Mill.

By 1977, Hopkins Old Water Mill had been placed into operation grinding corn, rye, buckwheat, producing pancake flour, yellow cornmeal and whole wheat flour. The Tushar's repaired the dam, restored the millrace and hired Loren Cameron and his sons, Ed and Wayne from Damascus, Ohio to build a 19' tall, 10' wide, wooden waterwheel. The Cameron's also assisted with the acquisition of a 3,000 pound set of French buhrstones.

Today, Hopkins Old Water Mill is open to the public. The exterior of the mill exhibits a beautiful mill dam, millrace and functioning waterwheel that powers the millstones. The interior of the mill is designed to allow the public to inspect the waterwheel and milling equipment. Antique milling machines are on display. Garrettsville presents events all year long that include a Heritage Days and a Christmas Walk. Call (216) 527-2705 for special events at the Hopkins Old Water Mill. ("Garretts Mill"; "Garrettsville's 1804 Mill"; "Hopkins Old Water Mill"; Wiet).

 

DIRECTIONS: Portage County. Hiram Township. In Garrettsville, at 8148 Main Street.

Copyright© 1999 BK Publications.  All rights reserved.   Reproduction by written permission only.