Woodson's Mill
Woodson's Mill is a gristmill in Virginia powered by water since 1794 that remains operational today. The stone and wood structure relies on large water wheels that turn grinding stones to process grains such as wheat and corn into flour and meal.
The mill was built in 1794 by Guilford Campbell and originally known as Piney River Mill. In 1900, Dr. Julian B. Woodson acquired the property, added modern roller mills, and expanded operations to include a cider press and sawmill, establishing the name by which it is known today.
The mill takes its name from Dr. Julian B. Woodson, a local doctor and businessman who acquired it in 1900 and transformed it into a hub of community activity. Visitors can observe the grinding process and grasp how such places served as gathering points for the surrounding farms and neighborhoods.
The site sits along Piney River near the Amherst County border and stands as one of the few mills in the region still powered by water. Visitors can watch the mill operate and attend monthly demonstrations to learn about traditional milling processes in action.
The property is now operated by Deep Roots Milling and remains one of the few places where water power still drives a working commercial milling operation. Monthly market events showcase the mill grinding grain and keeping traditional skills alive for visitors to witness.
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