The Hanford Mills Museum in Delaware County opens for the 2021 season on Saturday, May 15th. The new season will feature guided tours demonstrating the in the water-powered sawmill, gristmill, and woodworking shop, which is marking its 175th anniversary in 2021.
Visitors can also tour the Hanford House, outbuildings and view exhibits and a video. Hanford Mills also has picnic tables and a shop stocked with Mill-made items, books, and local crafts. Families visiting the Museum can also take part in an activity that explores how the water cycle works.
The first mill on the site was built by Jonathan Parris in 1846. The site then had several owners until it was purchased in 1860 by David Josiah Hanford. Hanford, and then his sons, ran the Mill for 85 years, expanding the Mill complex and adding new machinery, product lines, and a variety of power generation methods, including waterwheels, water turbines, and a steam power plant.
Tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday, and will be limited to one party and require advance reservation by calling (607) 278-5744, or visiting the Hanford Mills Museum website. Tours last about one and a half hours and are offered at 10 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 3 pm.
Admission to the museum is free for children 12 and under; $9 for adults and teens; senior and $7 for AAA members. Hanford Mills is located at 51 County Highway 12 in East Meredith, at the intersection of Delaware County Routes 10 & 12. For more information visit their website or call (607) 278-5744.
Photo of Mill Manager Rob Dianach operating the water-powered Chase shingle mill at Hanford Mills Museum.
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