Opequon is a small village in Frederick County, Virginia. It has some old stone buildings that always intrigued me when I drove down Cedar Creek Grade.
When I read that there was to be an open house at the Glass Mill on Saturday, I made it a point to go see it. The mill is privately owned and not open to the public.
Also known as the Glass-Rinker-Cooper Mill, the mill was the second mill in this community and was built by Joseph Glass II. Originally this was a grist mill (for grinding grain), and later was used as a sawmill.
The interior of the mill contains some of the old equipment. To me, the most striking feature is the huge beams of chestnut oak 50 feet long, rough cut by hand. (Chestnut Oak, or Quercus montana, is a white oak tree.)
This is part of Opequon Historic District.
We were invited to climb the steps to the upper level. It was almost empty but the construction impressed me by its bulk and strength. When I started to go back down the stairs, I literally needed a hand because my left leg was aching so I felt a bit off-balance and there was no hand rail. I asked for assistance and it was given kindly.
The rear of the mill has been replaced. Originally a mill wheel was here but at some point it was removed and the wall severely damaged.When I look at these pictures, I recall that my mother was fascinated by old mills. I don't think she even knew that some of her ancestors were millers in Beaver Creek, Maryland.
I found the old mill stream behind the mill.
Across the road is the Second Opequon Presbyterian Church, which I shared here last year.
nice shot of the wood bowl and flowers in the window. 1812, long time this place has stood and one can see why with those sturdy beams and stone work. What is must have taken to construct a place such as this.
ReplyDeleteGostei de ver estas fotografias e aproveito para desejar a continuação de uma boa semana.
ReplyDeleteAndarilhar
Dedais de Francisco e Idalisa
O prazer dos livros
Hello, the old stone buildings and mills are beautiful. I love seeing them too. Wishing you a great day!
ReplyDelete...thanks Londa for this wonderful tour of this neat spot. Lots of things here that I enjoy. I hope that your week is going well.
ReplyDeleteWhen I used to tour the back roads of the southern States back in the mid '60s, I can recall at least one of these old mills still in use. Your post makes me wonder if they have all been converted to other uses by now. (Nice lighting in some of your shots, by the way.)
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful mill!
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of this place before and now it is only my list of places to check out. Thanks Linda! The old mill looks wonderful! Too bad it's not open on a more regular basis.
ReplyDeleteI love stone buildings! These are great images with awesome history. It amazes me how adaptable you had to be in those days.
ReplyDeleteMy Corner of the World