The Glass Family Mill in Opequon

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. 

The miller's house is actually attached to the mill and is currently used as a residence.  Although the mill was constructed in 1812, the house was added later.

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.

Sharing with Countryscapes, Tuesday Treasures, and Through My Lens.

I found the old mill stream behind the mill. 

Across the road is the Second Opequon Presbyterian Church, which I shared here last year.