Sunrise Mill

Sunrise Mill is a historic milling complex near Schwenksville featuring a grist mill with an attached sawmill, a farmhouse built in 1828, and a Swiss-style barn constructed in 1795. The property is maintained and undergoing restoration by Montgomery County to serve as a heritage site for visitors.

The grist mill was built around 1767 and expanded in 1819, initially powered by an internal waterwheel driven by Swamp Creek. The operation shifted to turbine power after 1870, marking a major technological change in how the mill functioned.

Dr. Chevalier Jackson, a well-known surgeon specializing in throat conditions, transformed the complex during his ownership into a creative workspace. He combined practical medical work with artistic pursuits, using the mill's power for both purposes.

The site is maintained by Montgomery County's parks department and remains under restoration as ongoing heritage work progresses. Visitors should expect variable access conditions and review current information before planning a visit to understand what areas are available.

Within the mill buildings, Dr. Jackson maintained both a workshop for creating medical instruments and an art studio for painting local nature scenes. This dual use of the same structures reveals how a single complex served two completely different crafts.

Location: Pennsylvania

Operator: Montgomery County

Website: https://montcopa.org/931/Sunrise-Mill

GPS coordinates: 40.27333,-75.52028

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:01