The site, which represents the last surviving gristmill in the county, is a reminder of a time when small, custom mills operated around the clock during harvest time. These mills were also important focal points and gathering places in the surrounding community, adds Thompson. Preserving this site would mean saving the last remaining local example of its kind, and along with it, the community’s tangible connection to its agrarian past.
The unique property includes 151 acres, a mill race, and a pond, as well as the site of the original village of Nanjemoy’s store and post office. Built during the 19th century and renovated in 1923, the water-powered gristmill is a simple rectangular front-gable box form that stands two stories tall.
Unfortunately, flooding from several past hurricanes destroyed most of the mill race and pond and has undermined the foundation. The mill, which still contains several of its original millstones, is currently being stabilized. However, it is threatened by structural damage and the weight of the mechanical workings of the mostly wooden gears. The owners, the Silbaugh family, are unable to fund appropriate restoration.
Joan Silbaugh, who has owned the mill for 50 years, has been largely involved in the preservation efforts. She lives in a 200-year-old house within 200 feet of the mill, and believes her home is haunted by the ghost of a Civil War soldier looking for his fiancée. She enjoys talking about the mill, which was used strictly for the convenience of local people rather than as a commercial operation, and hopes that the historical site can be saved.
Over the past decade, there has been broad community support for preserving the mill. The Silbaugh family is willing to work with volunteers and sponsors to preserve the site and to promote greater awareness of its significance.
For more information, call Cathy Thompson at 301-396-5815.
Latest Comments