Ascutney Mill Dam

Ascutney Mill Dam is a stone structure built across Mill Brook in Windsor County that shapes the local water system. The construction features solid masonry walls that hold back water and create a large reservoir behind it.

The structure was built in the 1830s and was one of the early examples of substantial stone construction for water control in the region. Its creation marked a shift from simple wooden structures to permanent stone works.

The dam represents a turning point in American engineering, demonstrating the transition from simple wooden structures to sophisticated masonry construction techniques.

The area around the dam is accessible from public roads and offers views of the structure and the reservoir it creates. The best views come from various vantage points around the surrounding land.

The structure was designed with a gently curved form that handles water pressure more efficiently than earlier straight designs. This approach later influenced how engineers built dams in other regions.

Location: Windsor County

GPS coordinates: 43.47667,-72.39611

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:41