Droeschers Mill

Droeschers Mill is a historic mill building located at 347 Lincoln Avenue East in Cranford along the Rahway River in Union County, New Jersey. The structure harnesses river water through an undershot water wheel to generate mechanical power for its operations.

The building was constructed in 1737 by Benjamin Williams as a sawmill powered by the river's water wheel. Over time it became one of the oldest continuously operating commercial structures in New Jersey.

The mill sits on land that follows the path of the Naraticong Trail, originally used by the Unami people of the Lenape. The location connects visitors to the early trade routes that shaped the area's development.

The site can be accessed through the Cranford Riverwalk and Heritage Corridor, which runs from the Cranford Canoe Club heading south. Walking access is available along this established path that hugs the riverbank.

The structure has maintained its commercial operation while nearly all other mills on the Rahway River disappeared from the landscape. This continuity makes it a rare example of functioning water-powered machinery from the 18th century still in use today.

Location: New Jersey

GPS coordinates: 40.65030,-74.30170

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:40