Hopkins Mill

Portage County, Ohio

Ohio Mill

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History of Hopkins Mill by Brenda Krekeler (1988 - 1989)

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).

As of September 2011, the mill interior equipment is not available for the public. You can see what was part of the histoical old mill equipment in the above photographs from 1988. The exterior maintenance of the mill has suffered. The water wheel is no longer functioning nor any of the interior milling equipment. The flume and associated area has been over run with brush. Hopefully, our economy will start cranking again and some owners or township trustee members will find it in their budget to recognize the historic landmark that makes Garrettsville on the map in Ohio.

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