Mill House Museum, Occoquan Historical Society

This Mill, also known as Merchants Mill, was extremely advanced for its time. After the building was purchased by Quaker Nathaniel Ellicott, it was upgraded with the newest technology. It is believed that this was the first automated gristmill in America. The mill continued to function until 1924 when a generator fire destroyed the main structure of the building. The small Mill House, attached to the Mill, was untouched by the fire but fell into disrepair as it was abandoned. This structure is now leased to the Occoquan Historical Society (formerly Historic Occoquan, Inc.) as a museum. 

The Mill House Museum preserves the history of the Occoquan area. The Museum holds an extensive collection of photographs of the area. On exhibit are also artifacts from the area that document both advances in technology and the average daily life of individuals during the period. The entire Mill House collection has not been fully documented. The photographs and periodicals held at the museum are frequently used for research on the area. 

The Mill House Museum assists in several special events each year. The Museum hosts frequent seminars and educational events on the history of the area and the advancements in milling technology from the Civil War era. Many exhibits through the museum focus on Civil War history. The Museum also frequently supports Civil War reenactments in the area. The historical society's website offers an Occoquan scavenger hunt for children as well as special online exhibits on local history.

Occoquan Historical Society. The Mill House Museum, Museum Collections. Accessed November 17th 2019. https://www.occoquanhistoricalsociety.org/blank-3.