Mills and Early Industries in Pocahontas County

 

The Economic Backbone: Mills and Early Industries in Pocahontas County

The sources offer a glimpse into the economic landscape of early Pocahontas County, particularly highlighting the crucial role of mills and nascent industries. These enterprises were not merely businesses but served as cornerstones of the local economy, driving growth, shaping settlement patterns, and reflecting the resourcefulness of early residents.

• Mills: The Heart of Early Industry: The sources place particular emphasis on the significance of mills in Pocahontas County's development. The very first industry mentioned is a "combined sawmill and carding mill" built by James A. Price before the Civil War. This detail underscores the early reliance on mills to process local resources, particularly timber and likely wool, essential for building and clothing in the growing settlement.

• Water Power: Fueling Economic Activity: The sources consistently highlight the use of water power to drive these early mills. Price's combined mill, for example, was powered by water from Stony Creek. This reliance on water power had a significant impact on where businesses were located, often situated near rivers and creeks to harness this natural resource. This suggests that the availability of suitable water sources was a key factor in determining the location and feasibility of early industries.

• Grist Mills: Sustaining the Community: Beyond sawmills, the sources reveal the presence of grist mills, essential for grinding grain into flour. These grist mills, often owned and operated by individuals like Michael Daughtery and later Wellington G. Ruckman, indicate the importance of agriculture in the local economy. The processing of locally grown grains into flour would have been crucial for feeding the community and likely facilitated trade and economic exchange.

• Sawmills and Timber: A Foundation for Growth: The abundance of timber in Pocahontas County is evident in the sources, particularly in descriptions of the vast pine forests that once covered the region. Sawmills, able to process this timber into lumber, played a vital role in supporting the construction of homes, businesses, and infrastructure needed for the expanding community. This suggests that the timber industry, driven by sawmills, was likely a significant economic driver in the county's early years.

• Evolution of Mills: Adapting to Change: Interestingly, the sources reveal a shift in milling technology over time. The introduction of a "circular saw mill" brought from Augusta County, Virginia, marked an advancement in sawmill technology. This new mill, capable of processing lumber more efficiently, likely increased productivity and reflected the community's openness to adopting new technologies to enhance their economic activities.

• Impact on Settlement and Development: The location of mills influenced settlement patterns. Communities often sprang up around these economic hubs, as evidenced by the establishment of homes and businesses near Harper's Mill, mentioned in the context of road development. This suggests that mills acted as centers of gravity, attracting workers, businesses, and families, and contributing to the growth and development of specific locations within the county.

• Beyond Mills: A Diversifying Economy: While mills formed the backbone of early industry, the sources hint at a gradually diversifying economy. The mention of blacksmith shops, often located near mills, indicates the emergence of specialized trades providing essential services to the community. Furthermore, the story of James E. A. Gibbs and his work on a sewing machine model, while highlighting the challenges faced by some, also reveals a spirit of innovation and the potential for new industries to emerge.

In conclusion, the sources paint a clear picture of mills and early industries as essential components in the economic development of Pocahontas County. These enterprises, often powered by the region's abundant water resources, were instrumental in processing local resources, supporting agriculture, and providing the building blocks for homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The location of these mills influenced settlement patterns and fostered the growth of communities, establishing a foundation for economic activity and diversification in Pocahontas County's formative years.