9-18-15

We discovered Pickwick Mill by accident since we had to go to the Minnesota side of the Great River Road earlier than expected.  We are glad since we like mills.

It took a few minutes to find it, it was tucked WAY back and out of sight until you reached a curve in the road. What a breathtaking sight! It’s a 6-story high stone mill and played an important part in American history. It even provided flour for Union troops in the Civil War! Here is an old-fashioned look at the mill.

We arrived at 9:20 AM, but one of the docents happened to be out and about saw us and opened the mill early!  Thank you!  There is a small admission charge.

A majestic building with a working 20 ft. circumference water wheel has been restored and was turned on for our visit. Before we took our self-guided tour, we were shown a 21-minute video of the mill and how it works. You can see the video here.

There was much to see here and we spent two hours exploring.  I also found a blueprint similar to the mill, though just 4 levels.

We were also given an info sheet about the mill describing it’s proud history.

The lowest floor is gravel-covered and expansive.  The bottom of the grain elevator is here.

There also was a hand-operated Post Drill, no electricity needed!

On the main floor (3rd) are many interesting things. The view upon entering the building.

A French Millstone that may be 500+  years old, found under a thick layer of dirt perfectly preserved.

More equipment on the main floor.

And the waterwheel.

See it in action!

Housing for the millstones called “furniture”.

On the 4th floor just above us.

A Wheat Separator

The view of the millpond out the window was pretty too.

An aerial view of the mill and pond.

We concluded our visit by viewing the dam on the small trail just outside of the mill.  Beautiful scenery!

If you get the chance to stop here, take it. You will have a great time! Work is ongoing on further restorations at donations are always welcome.