The Nature of Delaware

Abbott's Mill in its current form, dating back to the early 1900's

The Delaware Nature Society’s Abbott’s Mill Nature Center is located near Milford, DE.  The site contains natural areas, a trail system, pond, stream, and nature center in addition to the Mill itself.  Stop in for a visit your family will enjoy, and make sure to join us on one of our “Running of the Mill” days.  (see below for details). 

Abbott’s Mill’s rich history dates back to 1795, when Nathaniel Wiley dammed Johnson’s Branch and built a saw mill.  Names, owners, and equipment changed over the past two centuries as it transitioned to grist stones and roller mills.  Ainsworth Abbott, the last miller who retired in 1963, sold the mill to the state of Delaware exactly as it functioned until his retirement.

Elliott Workman points out the "lans and grooves" on the grist stones

Abbott’s Mill is now managed by Delaware Nature Society for the State of Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.  The mill’s water turbine, grist stones, and roller mills are all operational following an extensive preservation project that started in 2004.  Elliott Workman, Land and Facilities Coordinator for Abbott’s Mill Nature Center, will be offering guided tours of this regional treasure on “Running of the Mill” days throughout the year.  Experience the rush of water through the turbine and the rumble of the stones as you step back into Delaware’s milling tradition. 

Rick Frunzi conducts yearly maintenance on the Mill's historic equipment

Running of the Mill – 2009

Time: 1:00-3:00pm

Cost: Free for DNS members, $5 for non-members

Dates:

Saturday, February 7th

Saturday, May 2nd

Saturday, August 1st

Saturday, October 17th

Note: Private tours available upon request (302) 422-0847 or jason@delawarenaturesociety.org

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