Take A Tour Of Bears Mill, An Ohio Treasure That’s One Of The Last Working Grist Mills Of Its Kind

Did you know that Ohio is still home to a working grist mill? Bear's Mill in Greenville, Ohio is a small town treasure that makes a fun and educational day trip destination. If you enjoy Ohio history, nature and antiques, this is one historical landmark that belongs on your bucket list. Nestled along the banks of the scenic Greenville Creek, this one-of-a-kind mill is downright picture perfect.

Welcome to Bear's Mill, one of the few working grist mills still operating in America. It's an Ohio treasure that dates back to 1849.

Fun fact: Bear's Mill is also the oldest existing industrial building in Darke County.

Today, you can take a self-guided tour of this fascinating landmark. It's open year-round and you can even observe grinding demonstrations on Saturdays at 2 p.m.

You can visit the mill from April - December on Tuesday - Saturday from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. You can also visit on Sundays from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

The mill and surrounding area is especially stunning in the autumn months. The fall foliage makes a visit here extra special.

The mill is open from January - March on Thursday - Saturday from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Throughout the mill, you'll find antique tools and other memorabilia that will likely take you on a trip down memory lane.

What makes the mill particularly fascinating is the fact that the grain is still ground on the original stones that were transported from France in the 1800s.

Guided tours of the mill can be scheduled in advance for a fee. As an added bonus, guided tours include grommet coffee and homemade cookies.

For more information about scheduling guided tours, visit Bear's Mill's website.

If the weather is nice and you have some time, be sure to explore outside as well. More than 30 acres of woodland and nature trails surround the mill.

Note: Self guided tours of the mill are free. Organized guided tours of the mill are $6 per adult and $3 per child.

Have you ever toured Bear's Mill before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!

For more historic treasures in Ohio, check out our previous article: The Longest Covered Bridge In Ohio, Smolen- Gulf Bridge, Is 613 Feet Long.