Q: Can you tell me about the mill next to Alcovy Road in Lawrenceville?
A: You are referring to Freeman's Mill Park.
The gristmill, on the banks of the Alcovy River, was built in the 19th century and is part of a 12-acre park with a playground, a half-mile paved trail and restrooms.
The park is about two miles off of Ga. 316, past the Gwinnett County Airport (Briscoe Field).
The historic sign in the parking lot states that Freeman’s Mill was the last operating gristmill in the county.
A sign at the front of the mill reads: “As we continue to preserve the gristmill, please enjoy the building from the outside. ENTRY PROHIBITED.”
Around the back of the gristmill is the waterwheel that once was powered by the Alcovy River. Surrounding trees, a small waterfall and birds make for a peaceful setting.
According to the Lawrenceville website, the county restored the mill in 2009 and its surrounding 12 acres for “educational and recreational use to offer Gwinnett County citizens a sense of the agricultural past.”
“The mill was built sometime between 1868 and 1879 by brothers John Griffin and Levi J. Loveless. By 1996, it was said to be one of only 15 mills in the state in working order and the only one in Gwinnett County. At that time is was placed on the National Register of Historic Places,” according to the city.
“Local farmers would bring their wheat and corn to the miller to be turned into flour and meal. Alcova Baptist Church, located up the street from the mill, used the mill pond for baptisms and the millhouse itself provided a gathering place for the surrounding rural community. The water-powered gristmill was preferred by many farmers because it would grind the corn more slowly than electric mills, resulting in a sweeter taste,” according to the city’s website.
On a recent Tuesday afternoon, the park and playground were empty with the exception of a young man jogging with his dog on the paved trail.
On the bank of the river are signs warning against swimming or diving into the water. Three picnic tables are between the renovated mill and the waterfall. Remnants of the stone walls that once channeled the water to the mill still exist.
There is plenty of parking available with four large places for buses.
Admission is free and the park is open from sunrise until sunset unless posted otherwise.
Location: 1401 Alcovy Road, Lawrenceville, 30045.
New to town or simply have a question about this place we call home? Email your requests to atlactualfact@gmail.com.
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