I am looking for information on primitive sawmills, sash mills in particular. Peter van Winkle established a mill described as such in 1851 in Benton county, AR. He lived near Fayetteville 1839-51, and I am trying to establish an argument that he had a sawmill here during that time.

i myself am researching waterwheel powered sawmills in order to duplicate such on a homestead in windsor,n.h.
i have found interesting info at library of congress but is expensive to purchase. i purchased a millers guide but is somewhat confusing to interpret. i was hoping for more schematical designs.
if you have info you can direct me towards in building a h2owheel powered sawmill i will be grateful;if not,thank you for your time!
brent o'donal
mooselook inn
black pond brook
windsor,nh

Brent:

Have you been down to Wilton (NH) to Frye's Measure Mill? It is a water-powered mill that is still producing shaker style boxes and such.

Brent,

Stop in and visit Tom and Harry Southworth. They own and operate an H2O mill. Plus they're a hoot. Ask them to see the box of rocks.

Garland Mill
Box 215 Garland Rd.
Lancaster, N.H. 03584
603-788-2619
tomsouthworth5@yahoo.net

You will enjoy the visit.

Rudy, would you have any information about the design and construction of the flume used to transport water to the wheels at these old mills? Thanks

I have a large old wooden wheel, steel pully wheels and other similar parts and pieces from an old 1860's grainmill I dismanteled. Also a 100 horse motor and other smaller motors, from the same mill. Would this be of value or interest to someone?
Edited:8/11/01 I'm also looking for someone who can help me to decipher the various species of timbers I salvaged form this mill. Can you help?

[This message has been edited by Ralph&Sunni (edited 08-11-2001).]

You might want to contact Jim Kricker of Rondout Woodworking. He's a Guild member. I know he just finished work on a ca 1851 sawmill reconstruction in Greenbush, WI (15 miles from my door- wish I'da know he was coming..). Check out the Wisconsin State Historical website- follow the link to the Hurling sawmill.

Just a note to those on this site requesting early waterpowered sawmill design information. I have been fortunate to have been associated with an 1846 muley sawmill completely restored and in operating condition since 1961. This mill although primitive produces approximately 20000 board feet of vertical sawn lumber yearly since its opening at that time. I would be glad to share technical information if requested--best of the season!
The Northern Hewer