Experience the mill and step into the past where grist mills were a major gathering place for communities. Stoneground flours and grains were a staple in every household. War Eagle Mill is the last working grist mill in Arkansas and is believed to be the last undershot mill in the country.

WHAT IS A GRIST MILL? HOW DOES OUR MILL WORK?

The term “Grist Mill” can refer to both the grinding mechanism and the building that holds it. “Grist” refers to grain that has been separated from its chaff in preparation for grinding. A grist mill grinds whole grain into flour and “meals”. 

WHAT IS AN UNDERSHOT MILL?

An undershot water wheel is powered by the water running under the wheel (not over). Such mills are documented as far back as the 1st century BC. 

Overshot mills are more common, with the water pouring over the top of the wheel.

There are few undershot mills left because, in order to function, they must be built very close to the water level, in the bed of the river. Most of them have been washed away over the years.