at Dillard Mill State Historic Site
Conceptual Development Plan Comment Card
Dillard Mill was built between 1904 and 1908. It played a vital role in the community of Dillard, Missouri. At the time of its construction, the mill was ‘state of the art’ water milling. Now, it is one of Missouri's best-preserved, intact and operable examples of a turn-of-the-century, water-powered gristmill. As such, its preservation provides visitors with the opportunity to see a working gristmill and its interpretation allows an understanding of the importance of such enterprises to the economy of rural areas through the mid-20th century.
Dillard Mill's natural setting is one of great beauty and is a drawing point for many of the facility's visitors. Besides viewing historic buildings, a limited day-use area is provided for visitor recreation that encompasses a small shelter, two accessible restrooms, picnic tables and grills, and field exhibits explaining different buildings in the hamlet. Rugged hiking opportunities also are available on-site.
Mission Statement:
Dillard Mill State Historic Site's mission is threefold: 1) to preserve and interpret the last water-powered gristmill in Missouri that has its original grain milling machinery in situ, intact, and in operating condition; 2) to preserve and interpret the changing economic character of the hamlet of (Old) Dillard and those structures associated with it; and 3) to provide quality learning and recreational experiences consistent with management efforts to preserve and protect the site's natural and cultural resources.