Neligh Mill

Neligh Mill is a multi-story structure of wood and brick standing beside the Elkhorn River, housing original grain-processing equipment from the 1880s. Inside, visitors can see four floors of functional machinery including grain cleaners, roller mills, and sifting systems arranged in sequence.

Founded in 1873 by John Neligh, the mill quickly became the economic engine driving settlement and growth in the surrounding region. Its success attracted farmers and merchants, who established the town that grew around this facility.

The mill represents how a single industrial facility could anchor the growth of an entire settlement in the frontier era. Visitors see tangible evidence of how grain processing was essential to community survival and trade.

The building is best explored during daylight hours to see the machinery details clearly across all four floors. Wearing comfortable shoes is advisable, as climbing stairs between levels is an important part of understanding how the mill operated.

The structure retains its original steam-powered machinery and belt-driven systems that remain in functional condition. These technical systems offer a rare glimpse into late 1800s industrial technology as it actually worked.