[caption id="attachment_3948" align="alignright" ] Adams Mill[/caption]
Architecture, history, and a beautiful scenic landscape; this is what visitors find when they come upon Adams Mill. This 1845 grist mill, located east of Cutler in southeastern Carroll County (east of Lafayette-West Lafayette), is a historical site not to be missed on your next visit to our area. It is a hidden gem that tells a story of agriculture, life in the 1800s and early 1900s, and the use of water energy from Wildcat Creek to power the mill.
[caption id="attachment_3949" align="alignleft" ] Dressing wheels sifted the flour. Wire or cloth screens determined the fineness.[/caption]
Adams Mill showcases the post and beam construction common to the 19th century agricultural structures in Indiana. It is amazing how no nails were used in the construction of the original framework, only wooden pegs. It really is an architecture lover's dream! Can you imagine building a 4-story structure today with no nails? And the building today is in great condition. (Thanks in large part to a group of preservation-minded citizens in the area!)
Within the mill are examples of various kinds of machinery, tools and artifacts showcasing what life was like from the early 1800's through the mid 1950's. Check out these examples of transportation, agricultural machinery, and even an old fashion washing machine!
[caption id="attachment_3944" align="aligncenter" ] This Prairie Schooner, made about 1790, is the type families used to move westward. Later it was used as a freight train.[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_3945" align="alignleft" ] Check out this old fashioned washing machine...Note is called "Womans Friend"[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_3950" align="aligncenter" ] McCormick Reaper- self-raking[/caption]
The grounds around the mill are absolutely gorgeous. They offer the perfect setting for an outdoor wedding or special event. Or if you want to get away for a weekend, it is a great location for tent and cabin camping.
[caption id="attachment_3952" align="alignright" ] Adams Mill Covered Bridge[/caption]
Directly down the road is the Adams Mill Covered Bridge, which has been fully restored and spans Wildcat Creek. It is a beautiful bridge and the most amazing part is it is fully operable. Drivers can drive their vehicles over the bridge. Wildcat Creek also winds under the bridge and is a great location for canoeing and kayaking. There is a one-mile nature trail that is perfect for an afternoon of hiking.
Please note when visiting Adams Mill, to follow the driving directions on their website at www.adams-mill.org. (When we visited this past month, we used Google maps and our IPhone mapping system, and it took us 1 mile away from the mill.)
For more information about this historical site (that is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places) and more in the area, visit our website at www.HomeofPurdue.com.