OLD MILL
The
Old Mill in Pigeon Forge is perhaps one of the area's biggest attractions
and most photographed locations. The area around the Old Mill was
first settled by pioneers near the river in the early 1800's. The
river was named Little Pigeon because of its popularity with pigeons, and
the name was given to the community as well.
In
1830, William Love dammed up the Little Pigeon River and began construction
of the first building of the Old Mill. He used 40-foot-long 14" x
14" yellow poplar logs which are visible yet today. Huge river rocks
serve as pillars to support the structure.
In
the old days the Mill was the heart of the community and served as a gathering
place for the villagers. During the Civil War, looms were set up
on the second floor to make woven articles for the soldiers.
Almost
180 years old now, this authentic working mill is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places. It serves as a reminder of days past
when this was but a sleepy mountain village.
You
can take a guided tour and see how the Old Mill grinds corn into meal using
the same machinery that was considered antique a hundred years ago.
After touring the Mill you can browse in the General Store which features
several kinds of the Mill products. You will want to be sure and
eat some "Southern" cooking at the restaurant and then visit the shops
in the Old Mill Square.
You
can spend an entire day in the Old Mill area, so come experience this very
special place where time stands still and memories are made to last forever.
Located
at traffic light #7 in Pigeon Forge.
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