The Samuel Briggs Grist Mill, Patowmack Canal, Great Falls Park, Virginia

摘要

As a result of recent archaeological and historical research at the Samuel Briggs Grist Mill site in Great Falls Park, Virginia, the following information has been obtained: (1) The grist mill was seemingly constructed c. 1797 by Samuel Briggs. Other historical information about the mill is lacking. (2) The archaeological evidence for the grist mill consisted of a stone foundation measuring 53 ft. by 27 ft. The foundations are situated on both sides of a raceway which leads out of the canal, indicating that the mill spanned the raceway and had a waterwheel enclosed within the building. (3) A distinct lack of building debris, hardware, nails, window glass, etc., indicates either later flood disturbances or the possibility that a mill superstructure was never completed. The report presents comparative data on other area mills and discusses water supply from the canal and other factors.