Field Trip: Garland Mill

Visit Lancaster’s incredible water-powered sawmill.  Located “out east”, this mill was built 5 years before Abe Lincoln became president. 

Garland Mill was built in 1856 by Eben Crocket Garland.  The mill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a rare survivor of the type of water-powered sawmills that flourished by the thousands in nineteenth-century New England. Garland Mill is the only commercial sawmill in New Hampshire that operates solely by waterpower.

Although Garland Mill has had turbines made by various manufacturers over the years, the type of motive power has never changed, nor has the mode of power transmission through shafting and belts.  Join Dana and Ben Southworth as they show off their unique and historic treasure.  

Note: Please pre-register for the Field Trip by emailing WSPA at info.weeksstateparkassociation@gmail.com, and include the word “Mill” in the subject line.  Details will be emailed to you. 

Garland Mill is five miles outside Lancaster village. From Main Street turn onto Middle Street at the old brick bank and go 1½ miles out of town. Turn left on Grange Road. Take first right on Garland Road and go about 2½ miles. The mill is on the right and there is a wooden sign at the drive entrance. Wear good footwear, and sensible clothing.