Significance of the Greenbank Mill and Tilt Hammer

 

Significance of the Greenbank Mill and Tilt Hammer

While the sources don't offer specific details about the old mill and tilt hammer near Greenbank, they provide valuable context to understand their historical importance within the broader setting of early industry and technology in Pocahontas County.

• Importance of Mills: The sources frequently mention various types of mills, including sawmills, gristmills, and flour mills, scattered throughout Pocahontas County. These mills were essential for processing timber, grinding grain, and producing flour, highlighting their crucial role in sustaining early settlements and driving economic activity. The old mill near Greenbank, though its specific function isn't stated, likely played a similar vital role in supporting the local community.

• Tilt Hammer Technology: The presence of a tilt hammer signals the existence of metalworking capabilities in the Greenbank area. Tilt hammers, powered by water wheels, were employed for shaping and forging iron and steel, producing items like wagon tires, horseshoes, plows, bolts, and nails. This suggests a level of technological sophistication and specialized craftsmanship present in the Greenbank community during this period.

• Connection to Agriculture and Industry: The sources emphasize that agriculture was the primary pursuit of early residents in Pocahontas County. The old mill and tilt hammer likely played a critical role in supporting agricultural activities by providing necessary tools and equipment. The tilt hammer's output could have extended beyond agricultural needs, potentially serving other industries or contributing to the construction of infrastructure.

• Location on Henry Wooddell's Land: The sources mention that the old mill and tilt hammer were situated on the land of Henry Wooddell, a resident of Greenbank. This detail is significant because it connects these early industrial operations to a specific individual, placing them within the context of local land ownership and economic activity. It raises questions about Henry Wooddell's role: Was he the owner and operator of the mill and tilt hammer? Did he lease the land to others for these purposes? Exploring the history of the Wooddell family and their land holdings could provide further insights into the mill and tilt hammer's history.

• Potential Archaeological Value: Although the old mill and tilt hammer may no longer be standing, the fact that the "pit and embankments may be seen" suggests the potential for archaeological investigation. Excavating and studying the remains of these structures could reveal valuable information about their construction, operation, and the specific types of goods produced.

The sources, though not directly focused on the Greenbank mill and tilt hammer, paint a vivid picture of early life and industry in Pocahontas County, where mills and metalworking played essential roles in shaping the community. Further research into local historical records, land deeds, and potential archaeological sites could illuminate the specific history and impact of these early industrial operations near Greenbank.