A Trip To This Charming, Working Mill In Oregon Is Unforgettable
By Catherine Armstrong|Published November 03, 2018
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
Do you ever wish that you could go back to a simpler time? We might miss our smart phones, Internet and social media, but there’s definitely something to be said for a way of life that’s a little more basic. One way to revisit the past is to take a trip to some of Oregon’s state heritage sites. Thompson’s Mills State Heritage Site features a working mill that’s the last of its kind in Oregon, and you can tour it for free.
Step right back in time at Thompson's Mills State Heritage Site. Visitors can tour this mill, which is over 150 years old, every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m..
The original mill was built in 1858, but it burned down in a fire in 1862. The new mill was built on the same site in 1864.
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Flour mills were important fixtures in rural communities during the 19th century, as farmers brought their wheat to be milled into flour that would sustain their families through the winter months.
After a long summer of hard work and harvesting, local farmers gathered here at the mill to catch up on the latest local news, and swap stories while they waited for their flour.
The history of the mill is fascinating, but you'll also be interested to see just how it works.
You can take a tour and watch the machines in action! Interpretive panels around the mill and its property tell you all about the history of the mill and its equipment.
The iconic silos are popular subjects for photographers and painters. Bring your camera, or feel free to set up an easel to capture this little bit of Oregon history on canvas.
It's completely free to visit the mill! If you have a group of more than 10 people, contact the mill in advance to arrange a group tour. All other visitors may stop by any time between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m..
Learn more about the Thompson’s Mills State Heritage Site on its website.
