Wyandot Indian Mill

7417 County Road 47
Upper Sandusky, Ohio 43351

419-294-4022   |  www.wyandothistory.org
Thursday-Sunday, 1-4:30 p.m.
Adults: $2; children 4-12: $1

The Indian Mill on the Sandusky River

Refurbished in 2017, the Indian Mill features exhibits about milling and a scale model of the original Wyandot Mill. The curators are knowledgeable about millworks and local history, and the scenic setting will make for a pleasurable experience.

Refurbished in 2017, the Indian Mill features exhibits about construction and a scale model of the original Wyandot Indian Mill. The curators are knowledgeable about millworks and local history, and the scenic setting makes for a pleasurable experience. After the War of 1812, the federal government wrote a new treaty with Ohio’s Native Americans. Negotiated at Fort Meigs, the Treaty at the Foot of the Rapids provided an unusual provision for the Wyandot, who had remained neutral during the conflict with Great Britain. The treaty stated that the government would “erect a saw mill and a gristmill upon some part of the Wyandot reservation, for their use.” True to its word, the government provided about $4,000 to construct the two mills which became operational in 1820. The treaty also provided for a miller, paid out of federal coffers; Charles White was the first miller who earned a monthly stipend of $15 to operate the mill. For many years, the Indian Mill on the Sandusky River was the only mill in the area and provided lumber milling and grain grinding to white residents as well as to the Wyandot. After the Wyandot agreed to sell their holdings on the Sandusky Plain, the mill was dismantled in 1861. The present building, about 300 feet upstream from the first Indian Mill, was built by Lewis Rummel using materials from the Indian Mill, including thick walnut beams that can be seen inside the museum. Over time, as water levels decreased in the river, the mill could grind only cornmeal; it ceased operation in 1941. The building sat idle for 20 years until it was gifted to the Ohio History Connection.

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Notes for Travelers

The scenic setting of the Indian Mill is perfect for an afternoon picnic. Cross the bridge over the Sandusky River to a little park opposite the mill. The park offers river access, grills, and fire pits – and a great view of the mill facing the water.



Credits

Pat Williamsen

Additional Resources

Lion of the Forest: James B. Finley, Frontier Reformer, Charles C. Cole, Jr., 1994