Our First “Scenic Sunday”
When-
Sunday Afternoon Feb. 6th.
Place-
Falls Mill, Belvidere TN
Driving Distance from Our House-
43 Miles
The Adventure-
The family started the day packing for our first Scenic Sunday. We had our Bibles, Sunday school projects, blue jeans and our hiking boots. Miraculously we were even on time that morning. We had a great start of the day by praising God and fellowshipping with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
We splurged with our lunch and chose to eat out so that we would be home early for game night with my brother and his family. We spent $30 with tip.
After stuffing our faces we hit the road for a short drive though the beautiful Tennessee country side. Halfway there we began to regret over eating and the sky was threatening rain with clouds gathering over our heads. However, we were not discouraged and we stayed on task. In no time we were turning onto Falls Mill Road where we were greeted by a canopy of trees. Within a block we found ourselves in front of the old water powered mill and country store.
The building was a beautiful late 1800’s building with our state and U.S. flags on each side of the front door. Across the road was a comfortable log cabin with picnic tables in the front lawn. To say that Falls Mill was charming would be an understatement. We were immediately drawn into a historic industrial era.
After a soothing and relaxing tour of the grounds and the building, I wanted to take my boots off and prop my feet up. I could have sat there and listen to more on the history of this wonderfully restored factory for the rest of the day. The whole family felt the same way and loved this little jewel in Belvidere as well.
The motion of the wheel motorized by the water was calming and enjoyable. Watching the machines being powered by the wheel gave you a sense of going back in time. We are defiantly planning on going back, but this time to stock up on the freshly ground grits and flower. Also, the player piano is a must do. It was tons of fun.
The Travel Log-
The admission price of $10 covered the 5 of us and was well worth the money and the time. On this trip we ate out for lunch and burned about $5 in gas, with a total- $35.
Family Fun Rating: **** out of 5
Explanation- On the day that we visited the mill, the printing press and the dog-powered butter churn were not being operated. The hikes that we found on our own were not challenging. However, this place was great. Get off the couch and find an adventure.
See more on Falls Mill below and on their website @ http://www.fallsmill.com.
FALLS MILL
Operating Water- Powered
Grain Mill and Museum
Belvidere, Tennessee
Nestled in a lush green cove along the banks of beautiful Factory Creek stands historic Falls Mill. Built in 1873 as a cotton and woolen factory, the mill was later converted for use as a cotton gin, then as a woodworking shop. Today the water wheel powers millstones that grind cornmeal, flour, and grits.
Falls Mill is open to the public for tours each day except Wednesday. Visitors begin with an introductory history of the mill, then take a self-guided tour of the building and scenic grounds. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Antique machinery related to the mill's history is exhibited on two floors of the building. The millstones, printing press, and the ever-popular dog-powered butter churn are on the first floor. The country store and weaving room are on the second floor. Hand looms, spinning wheels, and a rare collection of 19th century power looms and wool carding machines are on display.
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