Reflection on the Evolution of America's Milling
Linchester Flouring Mill Complex
One of the last water-powered grist mills located in Preston on the Eastern Shore (Caroline Co., MD). It was built about 1840 and is a frame building sided in red-painted weatherboard and roofed with raised-seam metal. It is four bays long and two bays deep, with a two-story lean-to addition. The mill houses an exceptionally complete collection of milling machinery dating from the 19th century to the mid-20th century. It ceased operation in 1979 when the mill pond dam broke after heavy rains.
The structure has been described as a “treasure of America” because its original equipment reflects the long evolution of American milling. The mill once was the nation's oldest running business and sold grain to George Washington's army during the Revolutionary War.
Linchester Mill campus also includes the Hog Island School, the Miller and Assistant Miller’s House and a Nature & Braille Trail with a bridge to the creek.
It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
No admission fee. School groups and bus tours welcome