French Mills, New York facts for kids

French Mills, also known as French's Mills, was once the location of a busy sawmill. This historic spot is found in Guilderland Center, New York. It started as a place where wood was cut, then it made clothes, and later it became a tavern.

What Was French Mills?

French Mills began as a sawmill in 1795. Its first owner, Peter K. Broek, used it to make clothes. In 1800, a man named Abel French bought the property. That same year, Jacob Aker turned the site into a tavern, a type of inn or public house.

Not That French Mills

It is important to know that this French Mills is not the same place. There was another French Mills where American soldiers went after the Battle of Crysler's Farm. That battle happened during the War of 1812.

Famous People from French Mills

One important person from French Mills was James H. Blessing. He was born there. James H. Blessing later became the mayor of Albany, New York. A mayor is the leader of a city or town. He served as mayor from 1900 to 1901.