Quinebaug Grist Mill
From Norwich Bulletin, February 23, 1942
Another of Danielson’s old landmarks is about to disappear. The Quinebaug grist mill is being torn down. This three-story frame structure, built like a fortress, has stood right at the confluence of the Quinebaug and Assawaga rivers for two generations.
It was built about 1879-80, and was practically in continuous operation until 1926. Since then it has been idle. The structure is the property of the Wauregan-Quinebaug Mills, Inc.
Before the Quinebaug Mills Company consolidated with the Wauregan plant the grist mill was operated by the Quinebaug Company. After having helped to build it, William H. Williams was in charge of the grist mill until it was closed.
Millions of pounds of grains were processed there through the years. There are many who still recall how carloads of corn, buckwheat and rye were shipped here for grinding, to produce meal and flour. Grinding also was done for individuals who lived in the surrounding country.
French burr stones were used in the grinding process. The mill was operated by water power. Its equipment was such that those who worked there had few tasks that were really laborious, for elevators and machines did practically everything.
Lucius Williams of Maple Street, a son of the former miller, said today that when first built, the grist mill was but two stories in height. The third story was added later.
Men who have looked over the building during the course of the past few days have marveled at the sturdiness of its construction. Great 12 by 12 beams were used as one feature. Lucius Williams, who has been a sawyer for years, working on many big cutting projects, says that the old grist mill contains some of the very finest hard pine timber he ever saw.
From Norwich Bulletin, March 1942
The Quinebaug grist mill, which was a land mark at the confluence of the Quinebaug and Assawaga rivers here for about 60 years, is no more. The three-story frame structure where millions of pounds of grain were milled through the years has been razed to the ground level. Practically all of the excellent lumber it contained has been salvaged—good for many more years of service.
Both Articles found in Scrapbook of Mrs. Fred (Nina) Wood