French's Mill

French's Mill is a historic grist mill located at the junction of Augusta-Ford Hill and Fairground Roads in Augusta, West Virginia.

History

• The main building is a three-story wood-frame structure with a metal roof, asphalt siding, and a concrete foundation. It was built in 1911 on the site of an earlier grist mill that was destroyed by fire around the 1890s.
• The mill's original design featured a water-powered mechanism, but it was converted to operate using electric power in 1949.

Architecture

The building's architectural style is characteristic of early 20th-century industrial structures. The exterior walls are clad in asphalt siding, while the roof is topped with a metal surface. A concrete foundation provides stability for the structure.

Location

French's Mill is situated at Chesterton Mills 13 in Augusta, West Virginia. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills and scenic views of the nearby countryside.

Current Status and Use

• The mill was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014.
• It is currently owned by the Croucher family, who intend to renovate the historic mill and showcase an art gallery on the first floor, a model train exhibit on the second floor, and a wildlife collection of furs and pelts on the third floor.
• The family operates an on-site thrift store, with all proceeds going toward the renovation of the mill.

Heritage Status and Preservation Efforts

The mill's historic significance was recognized when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2014. Preservation efforts are underway to restore the building to its original condition, ensuring that this important piece of American industrial history can be enjoyed by future generations.

Visiting Information

French's Mill is open to the public for guided tours and visits. Visitors can explore the mill's historic interior, learn about its operational history, and experience the art gallery, model train exhibit, and wildlife collection on display.

Notable Historical Events or Famous Millers

No notable historical events or famous millers are recorded in association with French's Mill.

Technical Details

The mill features a single electric-powered mechanism, replacing the original water-powered system. The building's design has been updated to accommodate different types of grain, reflecting the evolution of industrial facilities over time.