Wallace-Cross Mill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Wallace-Cross Mill
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Wallace-Cross Mill with miller's house in background
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | South of Felton, East Hopewell Township, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 0.5 acres (0.20 ha) |
| Built | 1826 |
| Built by | Wallace, Alexander |
| NRHP reference No. | 77001204 |
| Added to NRHP | December 22, 1977 |
The Wallace-Cross Mill is an old grist mill in East Hopewell Township, York County, Pennsylvania. It was built in 1826. This mill is a two-and-a-half-story building made of wood, sitting on a strong stone base. It has a sloped roof with fancy decorations called bargeboards. A huge steel water wheel, 11 feet wide, helps power all the machines inside. In 1979, the mill's owner gave it to York County.
The mill was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. This means it is an important historical site.
Contents
The Mill's Story
The Wallace-Cross Mill was built in 1826. It used water power from a stream called Rambo Run. The mill worked almost non-stop until the 1980s. Today, it is part of the York County Parks system.
The mill was recognized as a historic place in Pennsylvania in February 1977. It was then added to the National Register of Historic Places in June 1977. Harry Cross, who owned the mill, gave it to York County in 1979. In the early 2000s, York County Parks worked hard to fix up the building. They improved both the inside and outside.
Since 1840, the mill has only changed owners four times. Its name also changed once, from the Wallace family name to Cross.
What You Can See Inside
Today, the mill looks like it did in the 1950s. This was a very busy time for Harry Cross. The mill ran 24 hours a day, seven days a week back then. All three floors of the mill are open for visitors to explore. You can see many milling displays and old equipment.
The exhibits are fun for all ages. They are especially helpful for students learning about Pennsylvania history.
Milling Equipment and Displays
Inside the mill, you can see special equipment. This includes a Lieberknecht mill. There is also a hand-powered corn sheller. This machine helps remove corn kernels from the cob. You can also learn how millstones work. These big stones grind grain into flour. You will see how they are sharpened.
In the office, you can find a family tree display. It shows the history of the Wallace and Cross families.
Harry Cross's Office
The first floor has Harry Cross's old office. It looks like he just stepped out for a moment! You can see his stove, his desk, a workbench, and chairs. This is where he managed all his business.
How the Mill Was Powered
The mill first used a wooden overshot wheel. This wheel had wooden spokes and a shaft. It used the power of falling water to turn the machinery.
In 1922, the wooden wheel was replaced. A new steel Fitz wheel was installed. This wheel was made in Hanover, Pennsylvania. Fitz was a very famous company that made mill wheels in the 1800s. The original Fitz waterwheel was later fixed up and put back in place. This was made possible by Harvey Bradley.
Visiting the Mill Today
Since 2003, a group called the Friends of Wallace-Cross Mill has run the mill. These dedicated volunteers host open houses. You can visit from June through October. They also offer special tours. It's a great way to see history come to life!
