Fought's Mill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fought's Mill |
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Fought's Mill in 1909. Isaac Allen Moyer, standing in center in overalls, was the 8th owner of the mill.
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| General information | |
| Type | Gristmill |
| Location | West Buffalo Township, Union County, Pennsylvania |
| Coordinates | 40°55′16″N 77°02′20″W / 40.92101°N 77.03889°W |
Fought's Mill was a special kind of mill called a gristmill. It was built by Jacob Fought in 1771. You could find it in West Buffalo Township, Union County, Pennsylvania.
This mill used the power of water to work. Water came from two dams on Buffalo Creek. This water power helped unload grain from wagons. It also lifted the grain to different floors using ropes and pulleys.
Inside the mill, large millstones ground the grain. These stones had special ridges to help them grind. They turned grain into flour, cornmeal, and food for farm animals. When it was very cold, the mill ran all day and night. This stopped the water from freezing. The mill used water power for a long time. In 1925, a new owner changed it to run on diesel fuel.
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A Safe Place and Voting Spot
During the American Revolution, Fought's Mill was a safe place. Settlers used it as a refuge from Native Americans. It was also an important place for early American democracy.
First Election in Buffalo Valley
On November 3, 1776, the mill hosted Buffalo Valley's first election. This election happened under the new Pennsylvania Constitution of 1776. It was a big step for the local community.
Remembering Fought's Mill
Years later, people wanted to remember the mill's history. A special marker was placed at the site.
Historical Marker Dedication
On September 22, 1947, a Pennsylvania State Historical Marker was put up. This marker helps people learn about the mill's past.
The Mill's End
Fought's Mill stood for many years, but it eventually met a sad end.
Destroyed by Fire
In September 1971, the mill was completely destroyed. A fire started in a pile of hay near the mill. Two teenagers were involved in starting the fire.
- Union County Heritage Bicentennial Edition, Volume V. Union County Historical Society, 1976.
