Kennedy-Wade Mill facts for kids
The Kennedy-Wade Mill, often called Wade's Mill, is a historic grist mill in Raphine, Virginia. It's recognized as a national historic district, meaning it's a very important place from the past. This amazing mill has been grinding grain for centuries and is still working today!
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Kennedy-Wade Mill
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Wade's Mill, July 2012
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 Location in Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Location | VA 606 (Raphine Rd.), 2000 ft. NE of jct. with VA 721, Raphine, Virginia |
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| Area | 113 acres (46 ha) |
| Built | 1793 |
| Architect | Andrew Kennedy |
| Architectural style | Grist Mill, Federal, I-house |
| NRHP reference No. | 79003296, 94000458 (Boundary Increase) |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | July 13, 1979, May 26, 1994 (Boundary Increase) |
Contents
Discovering Wade's Mill
Wade's Mill is a special place where history comes to life. It's not just an old building; it's a working museum! People visit to see how flour was made long ago. The mill is a key part of the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's officially recognized for its important history.
A Long History of Grinding Grain
The story of Wade's Mill began a very long time ago. It was first built around 1750 by Captain Joseph Kennedy. His family owned it for many years.
Changes Over Time
In 1846, the mill was sold to Henry B. Jones. He made the mill bigger and better. Later, in 1867, it changed hands again. A fire damaged the mill in 1873, but it was rebuilt!
The Wade Family Era
After the fire, James F. Wade leased the mill. He later bought it. The mill started working again in November 1882. The Wade family kept the mill running for four generations! That's a really long time for one family to operate a business.
Still Grinding Today
In 1991, Jim Young bought the mill. He has kept the tradition alive. Wade's Mill is still grinding flour today, just like it did hundreds of years ago. It's amazing to see such an old machine still working!
How Wade's Mill Works
Wade's Mill uses old-fashioned methods to grind grain. It doesn't use electricity or modern machines.
The Power of Water
The mill gets its power from water. A large, 21-foot overshot water wheel turns as water flows over it. This turning wheel powers the entire mill. It's a great example of renewable energy from the past!
Grinding with Millstones
Inside the mill, huge millstones do the grinding. These heavy stones spin and crush the grain into flour. This traditional method creates unique and flavorful flour.
Flour for Everyone!
The flour made at Wade's Mill is very special. It's not just for home bakers.
From Mill to Table
The flour from Wade's Mill is sold to many places. Restaurants use it to make delicious meals. Even livestock farmers buy it for their animals. It shows how important mills like this were for communities.
The Mill's Surroundings
The Kennedy-Wade's Mill Historic District includes more than just the mill itself. It's a whole community!
A Small Mill Village
Near the mill, you'll find the miller's house. There are also other houses and buildings. These structures formed a small community around the mill. They show how people lived and worked together in the past.
