Shepherd's Mill

Shepherd's Mill is a grain processing structure located beside Town Run near where it joins the Potomac River in Shepherdstown. The three-story building houses a large steel overshot wheel installed in the 1890s that used flowing water to turn grinding stones inside.

Thomas Shepherd Senior constructed the original two-story mill before 1739, establishing grain milling as a business in the region. A third floor was added in the late 1800s alongside the installation of the new steel wheel, reflecting advances in milling technology.

The mill was where local farmers brought grain to be processed and gathered to exchange news and business. The building still reflects how water-powered industry shaped daily life and community commerce in early times.

The mill is privately owned and not regularly open to casual visitors. Those interested in viewing it should contact the owners in advance to arrange a time to stop by and observe the building and its mechanical features.

The steel overshot wheel was manufactured and installed by the Fitz Water Wheel Company, a leading maker of quality mill equipment in the late 1800s. This company supplied reliable wheels to thousands of mills across America.

Location: West Virginia

GPS coordinates: 39.43330,-77.80140

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:05